TechVets X TryHackMe: Helping Underrepresented Groups Bridge Into Cyber

“At TechVets our mission is to help veterans and service leavers bridge into tech and cyber security. TryHackMe is a brilliant platform that really helps those starting out on their journey into cyber security. Not only is TryHackMe the tried and tested place for great free content, but we are incredibly grateful to the team for providing members access to premium content - resulting in 72 of our members completing this training in the last year alone.” - TechVets Director

TryHackMe was created in response to some of the industry’s training flaws - a need for gamified, entertaining, and easy to follow learning. Alongside these pillars, co-owners Ben and Ashu worked to enable the platform to be as accessible as possible, allowing everyone, everywhere the opportunity to launch into the cyber security industry.

Since launching, TryHackMe has worked with various initiatives and charities supporting underrepresented groups with training and guidance. Today we’re talking about TechVets.

TechVets

TechVets is a not-for-profit organisation with the aim to empower UK veterans and service leavers to retrain, upskill, and successfully break into tech and cyber job roles. With the help of external partnerships, the initiative has supported more than 25 veterans directly into cyber security roles, securing average salaries of £46k. TechVets have worked with over 3,100 individuals by providing training and employment support access.

“One of the ways we support veterans and service leavers is by creating fantastic strategic partnerships with other organisations. TryHackMe is a brilliant platform that really helps those that are starting out on their journey in cyber security. Many of our members are at the discovery stage, or are partway through learning foundational skills. This can be the most challenging time, so it is important they have access to the best resources and guidance, so they don't get disheartened if they don't pick up skills instantly. Not only is TryHackMe the tried and tested place to access great free content, but we are incredibly grateful to Ben and the team for providing us access to premium content - resulting in 72 of our members completing this training in the last year alone.” TechVets Director and ex-Army veteran, James Murphy

Liam‘s Story

In February 2020, Liam Chugg, a Lance Corporal in 660 Signal Troop Wimbish, signed off from the army with the aim to pursue the cyber security industry. Realising the dedication needed to embark on a brand new career path, Liam utilised TechVets and began to uncover the route towards his dream. Liam notes, “although I had access to standard learning credits, I found the process of applying these to be difficult, and so had to research the most relevant courses, qualifications, and networking to get the best scope of opportunity.”

Alongside some self-study and social media tutorials, Liam utilised TryHackMe pathways to further his learning. The offensive pentesting path was the first to catch his eye, highlighting key areas of cyber security that he found attractive. Initially overwhelmed by the amount of content available, Liam worked through the training rooms, enjoying the AttackBox and the post-room questions, solidifying learning and gaining confidence in the field to bring to new roles.

After a notable study period, Liam launched into various job interviews - attending around ten before receiving an offer. He found positions were sometimes expecting more experience, and so focused on the positives of his military expertise to champion his USP. Liam secured a position as a Junior Security Operations Centre SOC Analyst and now has a higher wage than his time in the army. He hopes to continue working in the cyber security industry, soaking in exposure, gaining experience, and continuing to learn.

Read more of Liam‘s story here.

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