The cyber security profession has a global shortage of expertise available.

This shortage presents a real problem for ensuring we are all safe and secure in our technology-dependent lives. But cyber security apprentices can make a real difference to businesses.

Bradley Austen and Mark Misztal joined CDS Defence & Security in Cheltenham in 2020, as part of their four year degree apprenticeship in conjunction with Gloucestershire College and the University of the West of England (UWE) in Bristol.

Bradley began to look into ethical hacking and the security aspects of technology just after leaving school, while Mark had previously studied cyber security at Hereford sixth form college.

They both decided to take the degree apprenticeship route, as cyber security is a hands-on subject.

Mark said: "I chose to do an apprenticeship as it allows you to apply what you have learnt at university in the real world and gain experience by doing so. I feel that this is a better way to learn for me as each topic becomes more intuitive and memorable this way."

Although they have only been at CDS DS for a few months, they have already learned a lot.

Bradley said: "I enjoy the tasks I am given as it directly helps me improve my overall knowledge based on cyber security. I am excited to see what my future at CDS DS holds."

Find out more about cyber security degree apprenticeships at Gloucestershire College here.  

If your business is looking to recruit new cyber talent, contact the Business Hub team to find out more business.hub@gloscol.ac.uk