Monique’s cyber career journey

After working in payroll, human resources, accounts payable, and project and contract management, Monique Cooper sought a new challenge and joined the Information Security team. She learned about the Queensland Government Certificate IV in Cyber Security program and applied for it, completing the course over 12 months.

Eager for hands-on experience, Monique joined the Queensland Government Cyber Security Unit’s (QGCSU) mobility program, which supports Certificate IV graduates with a 12-month job placement. As one of 2 participants in the pilot program, Monique gained valuable knowledge and confidence, enhanced her IT understanding, and formed lasting friendships.

Her practical experience included domain-based message authentication, reporting and conformance (DMARC), vulnerability scanning, security operations, and phishing.

Monique also provided relief at another government agency, resulting in a 6-month temporary contract, and eventually secured a permanent cyber security role in another government agency. Reflecting on her journey, Monique credited the cyber skills accelerator program for helping her achieve her career goals and emphasised the importance of the supportive learning environment.

When asked what her overall experience was like as both part of the Cert IV and mobility program, Monique said, 'Thanks to the cyber skills accelerator program, I am on the career path I've always wanted. The Certificate IV in Cyber Security was instrumental in helping me get where I am today. The mobility program provided me with opportunities to apply the knowledge I had learned in the Cert IV in the workplace in a supportive and encouraging environment. Every day, I work to protect my employer from cyber criminals and educate our people to try and make using the internet safer for them'.

Are you a Queensland Government permanent employee thinking of moving to Cyber Security? Check out the opportunities to accelerate your pathway to a cyber career as part of the Cyber Skills Accelerator program.