Wavelink expands SecurePath initiative to Melbourne

Wavelink has expanded its SecurePath industry employment initiative from Adelaide to Melbourne in an effort to address Australia's pressing need for skilled cybersecurity professionals.

The SecurePath initiative, initially launched in Adelaide, was developed in response to an estimated shortfall of around 16,600 cybersecurity professionals by 2026 in Australia. The programme aims to bridge this skills gap by connecting students with industry leaders. The inaugural event connected over 100 students from the University of South Australia and TAFE SA with Wavelink and its associates, including Fortinet.

This year, the SecurePath event returned to Adelaide, drawing nearly 100 attendees, and launched in Melbourne, attracting over 100 students from local institutions like Melbourne Polytechnic, Federation University Australia, Holmesglen Institute, and Swinburne University. Across both cities, students had the opportunity to engage with Wavelink's network of partners such as Optimus Systems, Bridged Group, Honeylight Consulting, BluBiz Solutions, Arxis, Wireless Communications, Compnow, Iocane, Vocus, Subnet, Comunet, and Duco Limited.

The initiative focuses on supporting students, particularly those who have completed Fortinet NSE4 training, in starting their cybersecurity careers. The scheduled events coincided with the end of their studies, adopting a speed-networking format to facilitate direct interaction between students and representatives of Wavelink's partners.

Nick Touzeau, Chief Operating Officer at Wavelink, noted the challenges faced by partners in securing skilled cybersecurity talent. He stated, "Wavelink's partners face challenges in finding skilled cybersecurity talent consistently, particularly as the demand for security professionals continues to rise. Wavelink created the SecurePath initiative to help partners access fresh talent and bridge this skills gap. This initiative also lets Wavelink contribute to Australia's cybersecurity community and job market by supporting the next generation of professionals."

Trent White, Chief Technology Officer at Wireless Communications, highlighted the industry's struggles with the shortage of skilled professionals. He remarked, "The shortage of skilled cybersecurity professionals in Australia is a real challenge for businesses like Wireless Communications. The SecurePath program offers a unique setting where we can connect with graduates in a social environment, helping us identify potential hires who fit the Wireless Communications culture."

He added that the programme has led to successful hires from previous events. "Last year, we hired three students directly from the Adelaide event, and they've quickly become valuable members of our team. It's a great way to turn informal conversations into future job opportunities, and we're excited to build more genuine connections with people who are passionate about cybersecurity."

Cooper Laheney, an ICT Support Engineer at Wireless Communications and a participant in the first Adelaide event, shared his experience. "Breaking into cybersecurity can be tough, especially for students looking for their first role. This event made it possible to meet and speak directly with companies in my city, giving me a clear understanding of what they expect. The insights I gained helped me transition from student to professional. I recommend any tertiary student looking to get a career in cybersecurity to attend and take advantage of the networking opportunities this event offers."

Wavelink plans to continue its SecurePath initiative with a commitment to broadening its impact and addressing the cybersecurity skills shortage in Australia.