THE AFTER CHAPTER

Career Roadmaps

A clean, minimal, cyber-themed illustration matching the existing roadmap images: a simple abstract network diagram with nodes and connecting lines, using blue and teal accents on a light background, sized to sit alongside the other three images in a horizontal row.
A clean, professional, cyber-themed illustration showing a horizontal roadmap with multiple milestones labeled for entry-level cybersecurity careers (SOC Analyst, IT Support to Cyber, Junior Penetration Tester, GRC/Compliance Analyst, IAM Analyst). Use modern flat design, subtle gradients, and blue/teal accents on a light background. Include simple icons like shields, locks, and laptops, with a sense of progression from left to right.
A clean, modern, cyber-themed illustration that complements the existing roadmap image: show a diverse group of recent graduates collaborating around a large digital screen displaying cybersecurity icons (shield, lock, network nodes) and branching career paths. Flat, minimal style with blue/teal tech accents on a light background, matching the current site aesthetic.
A clean, modern illustration of a computer workstation with a laptop and subtle cybersecurity elements, in a minimalist style that matches the existing site design.
A clean, minimal, cyber-themed illustration matching the existing roadmap images: a simple abstract network diagram with nodes and connecting lines, using blue and teal accents on a light background, sized to sit alongside the other three images in a horizontal row.

Entry-Level Cybersecurity Careers + Certs

1. SOC Analyst (Tier 1 Security Analyst)

What you do: monitor alerts, investigate threats, respond to incidents

Certifications:

  • CompTIA Security+ (most important starter cert)
  • CompTIA Network+ (strongly recommended)
  • Microsoft SC-900 (Security Fundamentals)
  • Splunk Core Certified User (great for SOC jobs)

Best starting combo: Security+ + basic Splunk knowledge

2. IT Support → Cybersecurity Pathway

What you do: troubleshoot systems, manage users, support devices

Certifications:

  • CompTIA A+ (best entry IT cert)
  • CompTIA Network+ (next step)
  • Google IT Support Certificate (beginner-friendly)
  • CompTIA Security+ (bridge into cyber)

Why it works: IT Support is the #1 feeder role into cybersecurity

3. Junior Penetration Tester / Ethical Hacking Assistant

What you do: test systems for vulnerabilities and security flaws

Certifications:

Next step cert (later):

  • CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker)

4. SOC Technician / Cyber Defense Analyst

What you do: monitor security systems and respond to threats

Certifications:

  • CompTIA Security+
  • CompTIA CySA+ (Cybersecurity Analyst – next level)
  • Microsoft SC-200 (Security Operations Analyst)
  • Splunk Core Certified User

5. Compliance / Risk Analyst (GRC Entry Role)

What you do: policies, audits, regulatory compliance (HIPAA, ISO, etc.)

Certifications:

  • CompTIA Security+
  • ISO 27001 Foundation
  • Certified in Cybersecurity (ISC² CC)
  • CISA (later, advanced)

Best for structured, non-technical cyber roles

6. IAM Analyst (Identity & Access Management)

What you do: manage logins, permissions, user access systems

Certifications:

  • CompTIA Security+
  • Microsoft SC-300 (Identity & Access Administrator)
  • Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900)

Why it’s in demand: every company needs secure user access control

Fastest Certification Path (Beginner Plan)

If you want the quickest way into cyber:

Step 1 (Start here)

  • Google Cybersecurity Certificate OR CompTIA A+

Step 2

  • CompTIA Security+

Step 3

Pentesting → eJPT

Mentorship page