Steven Henkel
Security Consulting Systems Engineer
Cisco
Milestones
My road in life has been direct.
Get a job in IT.
Get a networking job in IT.
Get a bachelor's degree.
Get network and security related certifications.
Get a network security job.
Get a master's degree.
Work for an industry leading cybersecurity vendor.
Education
High School
North County High School
North County High School
Graduate
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance
University of Maryland-University College
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance
University of Maryland-University College
Career
Security Consulting Systems Engineer
I consult with DoD customers to provide security solutions to their cybersecurity needs.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Government
Technology
Problem Solving
Day to Day
Being in the cybersecurity field, I regularly check the latest news for any cybersecurity related news. I then look to see how Cisco security products could have prevented those events. I advise customers via presentations, demos and tech days on the latest Cisco cybersecurity defense solutions. I assist those customers with any help they need with Cisco security products. I use all related products in a lab environment to gain expert level knowledge of all Cisco security products.
Advice for Getting Started
Here's the first step for high school students
Cybersecurity is a broad field with many different jobs. Determining the path you wish to go down is the first important step. There is great opportunity in every area. Once you figure out what area you wish to pursue, research it and follow in the steps of those who have succeeded in those areas.
Recommended Education
My career is related to what I studied. I'd recommend the path I took:
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
From Peers:
"When starting out in the field, I had bosses and peers that looked for any reason to undermine my progress. Bosses would find reasons (ex. lack of a degree, lack of a certification, etc.) to pass me up for promotions or other opportunities."
