Coedie turns cyber security experience into expertise

A proud Kabi Kabi man and a Senior Security Specialist at Queensland’s Department of Transport and Main Roads, he was already deeply immersed in protecting one of the state’s largest government agencies.

But as the cyber landscape continued to evolve, Coedie felt a growing desire to strengthen the theoretical foundation behind his practical experience.

“I wanted to understand how my thirteen years of industry experience aligned with the formal frameworks and structure that higher-education study provides,” said Coedie.

When the Queensland Government’s Cyber Security Unit circulated an expression of interest for staff to study TAFE Queensland’s Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security (HED011), Coedie immediately saw an opportunity.  

“The moment I saw it, I knew it was worth throwing my name in the ring. It felt like the right time to take the next step.”

From his first weeks in the program, Coedie found himself inspired by the collaborative learning environment. With many of his classmates also being working professionals, discussions quickly moved beyond theory and into real-world scenarios.

“The teachers have been excellent - they encouraged us to share our industry experiences and explore different perspectives on the current cyber security landscape. It made every class engaging, relevant, and grounded in what’s happening out there.”

These conversations became one of the highlights of his study experience.

“The collaboration was the most rewarding part. We weren’t just learning from the course content - we were learning from each other. Everyone brought something different to the table.”

The course content itself expanded Coedie’s understanding of cyber security far beyond his usual areas of expertise.

The graduate certificate is designed to build the advanced capability required to meet this demand.

As part of the entry-level postgraduate certificate pathway that leads into the Master of Cyber Security (HED009), Coedie is completing 40 credit points made up of three core units - Cyber Security Risk and Incident Management, Cyber Security Law and Ethics, and an Applied Project - along with electives that allow him to tailor his learning.

The course focuses on managing cyber security risks and incidents, strengthening ethical defence mechanisms, and developing applied knowledge, helping him build the skills needed to protect organisations in an increasingly complex digital landscape.

“I’ve already strengthened my understanding of areas I don’t typically explore deeply, particularly governance, risk, and compliance,” he said.

“The course has helped me engage more effectively with internal teams across my organisation. I now speak their language in ways I couldn’t before.”

Balancing study with full-time work was a challenge, but one he managed through part-time study and self-discipline.

“I really admire the students who took on the full-time workload. For me, being already embedded in the industry meant the content wasn’t as overwhelming - but it took effort to juggle everything.”

The support he received from his teachers also played a significant role in helping him achieve that balance.

“My teachers offered solid support throughout the course, and anytime I needed guidance, they were available and willing to help.”

What surprised him most was how relevant and practical the training felt, even to someone already well-established in the field.

“TAFE Queensland’s training provides strong foundational knowledge for anyone looking to pursue a cyber career while reinforcing and broadening the skills I already use in my professional role. It’s been incredibly valuable.”

Although he is still completing his studies, the benefits are already being reflected in his day-to-day work.

“The course has strengthened my capability and allowed me to connect with other cyber professionals across Queensland; it’s expanded the way I think and the way I approach problems,” he said.

Coedie is confident that he will emerge from the program qualified with a renewed sense of purpose, sharper skills, and a deeper connection to the world of cyber security - precisely what he was seeking when he first applied.

While his journey isn’t over yet, Coedie has a simple message for anyone considering a leap into cyber security.

“Absolutely do it. Whether you’re new to the field or already working in it, the Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security sets you up for success.”

“It gives you the foundation, the confidence, and the network to build a strong career,” concluded Coedie.