Sam strengthens her cyber security career

A long-time professional in the digital health space, Sam works with Queensland Health’s Digital Health Service, where she focuses on improving systems and driving compliance across complex digital environments.

After completing her Certificate IV in Cyber Security (22334VIC) with TAFE Queensland, she wanted to expand her technical and governance expertise to make a broader impact across the healthcare sector.

“Cyber security is such a critical and fast-growing field, and I wanted to strengthen my technical understanding and leadership capability so I could contribute more meaningfully to protecting information and improving resilience across the systems I work with,” Sam said.

Having already completed her certificate IV, Sam said deciding to continue into the master’s program was easy.

“My certificate IV experience was incredibly positive - the training was practical, flexible, and directly applicable to my work.”

“I knew that continuing my studies with TAFE Queensland would give me the same real-world focus at a higher level.”

The Master of Cyber Security (HED009) at TAFE Queensland equips students with advanced knowledge in technical cyber defence, governance, and policy.

Designed to bridge the gap between technical expertise and strategic leadership, the program prepares graduates to tackle the evolving challenges of the digital world.

For Sam, one of the biggest strengths of the course has been the teaching team.

“The lecturers are industry professionals with real-world experience. They understand the challenges of working in cyber security and bring those insights into every lesson. The content is current, relevant, and immediately applicable to my role in government,” she said.

That industry-led approach has given Sam the confidence to apply new strategies in her day-to-day work, particularly around risk management, data protection, and governance frameworks such as ISO 27001 and the Essential Eight.

TAFE Queensland’s Master of Cyber Security equips students with the advanced technical, strategic, and ethical skills needed to protect organisations in an increasingly digital world.

Through core units, students learn to manage cyber security risks and incidents, understand cyber law and ethics, and apply best practices in information and network security.

The program also develops expertise in policy and governance, penetration testing and defence, and cyber security project management.

Students explore emerging cyber threats, delve into the psychology of cybercriminals, and complete applied and professional projects that put their learning into real-world practice.

Elective options, including digital forensics, operational technology, and advanced cyber projects, allow students to tailor their studies to their career goals and areas of interest.

Despite juggling full-time work, a business, being a mum and studying, it hasn’t been easy - but Sam has found a way to make it work with determination and support.

“Life is definitely full between work, my family, and our roofing company. It takes discipline and late nights, but the flexibility and understanding from my TAFE Queensland lecturers have made it possible.”

Sam says her studies have deepened her technical skills and strengthened her confidence as a cyber security professional.

“The master’s program has helped me connect my background in governance and compliance with the technical side of cyber security.”

“That combination has given me a stronger foundation to lead and influence change in my organisation.”

With a growing demand for skilled cyber professionals - projected to double by 2030 - Sam is excited about where her studies will take her next.

Passionate about encouraging women to join the industry, Sam hopes to step into a senior role in cyber resilience, governance, and inclusion, particularly within healthcare and public service.

“It’s never too late to take on a new challenge. With the right support and mindset, you can balance work, family, and study - and build a career that makes a difference,” Sam concluded.