nDepth is a proud participant of the SkillBridge program, which helps military members gain skills outside of their military experience when they are soon to be transitioning into the civilian sector. Brandon Dang just finished up his internship with us and is getting ready for the next step in his career, post-military. I asked Brandon some questions about his experience SkillBridging with nDepth Security, and where he’s off to next.

Leah: So let’s start with a little bit about your military background and how you found out about SkillBridge and nDepth.

Brandon: I was in the Navy for 6 years as an Information Systems Technician. My responsibilities included system administration, cybersecurity, and instructing. I found out about SkillBridge from other service members that were transitioning out before me, and I found nDepth through the Department of Defense (DOD) SkillBridge website.

Leah: What led you to choose nDepth for your SkillBridge internship?

Brandon: I wanted to continue a career in cybersecurity and felt that the Security Controls Assessor (SCA) internship nDepth offered would introduce me to a different side of the field.

Leah: What does your role as SCA look like on a daily basis?

Brandon: I assess companies’ cybersecurity policies and review them for accuracy and implementation.

Leah: What have you learned during the internship?

Brandon: I learned that proper documentation and retention of reports goes a long way in passing SCA inspections.

Leah: Have you obtained any certifications while interning with nDepth?

Brandon: During my time in SkillBridge, I’ve earned my Linux+ Certification.

Leah: Have you gained any skills through the program?

Brandon: I learned how to develop various SCA documentations such as Security Assessment Plans (SAPs), CAM spreadsheets, and Security Assessment Reports (SARs). I’ve also learned how to analyze a System Security Plan and document anomalies. It made me think about how I would set up a cyber program for a company, which is something I’m interested in.

Leah: Do you feel that nDepth has helped you prepare for working as a civilian?

Brandon: I believe nDepth has definitely helped me prepare for work as a civilian. A lot of cybersecurity positions require candidates to have experience with Risk Management Frameworks (RMF), SAPs, SARs, Plan of Action & Milestones (POA&M), and NIST documentation. Before my internship, I only had experience with the technical side of cybersecurity. The internship has taught me about the administrative side as well. I feel that understanding both sides of the field will set me up for a management position in cybersecurity.

Leah: What are your next steps?

Brandon: I will be starting my new job as a Linux/security administrator later this month. My responsibilities will include system administration and supporting the administrative side to cybersecurity, such as creating risk management framework submissions for systems. I’ll also be starting graduate school in cybersecurity. My goal is to become an Information Systems Security Manager and I know the knowledge I gained from this SkillBridge will help me achieve that!