Happy Easter!
As we head off into the Easter long-weekend, here's an update on some of the work we're doing as well some exciting events and opportunities in the broader ecosystem.
This month we’re shining a spotlight on The Cyber Switch, run in collaboration with UK Cyber Security Council and UKC3 - UK Cyber Cluster Collaboration an inspiring in-person event designed to help career changers, returners, and curious minds explore real opportunities in cyber security. Whether you're just starting to explore the sector or already supporting others into tech, this workshop offers practical support, valuable connections, and real-life insight into making the leap.
We’re also celebrating a big moment for NI Cyber own Judith Millar, who’s been shortlisted for two categories at the Women in Business NI Women in Tech Awards 2025, plus sharing key updates on new national cyber legislation, the UK MoD Cyber Direct Entry Scheme, and how you can help shape the future of access to cyber careers through a short CAN survey.
Scroll on to catch up, get involved — and as always, mark your calendar for the next Breakfast Club in May!
Events for your diary...
The Cyber Switch at Catalyst
🗓Thursday 1st May
⏰17.30pm - 20.00pm
Are you thinking about switching into a cyber security career – but not sure where to start? Whether you're a career changer, returner, or just curious about what roles are out there, (or someone supporting others into tech) The Cyber Switch is your opportunity to explore real pathways into the cyber industry.
This friendly, in-person workshop is designed to build your confidence, give you practical support, and connect you with people who’ve already made the switch — as well as employers looking for fresh talent.
What to Expect
Welcome & Inspiration Hear how others have successfully transitioned into cyber, what helped them, and what they wish they’d known at the start.
Interactive Breakout Stations
CV & LinkedIn Clinic – Get tips on tailoring your profile for cyber roles and live feedback from industry recruiters
Interview Ready – Learn what to expect in technical and non-technical interviews, and how to stand out
Understanding Cyber Roles Discover the wide range of roles available in cyber security (many with no need for a technical background) and find the one that fits you.
Panel Discussion: “Breaking Into Cyber” Hear from those who’ve done it – returners, employers, and certification experts – with honest advice and a chance to ask your own questions.
Get Registered Learn more about CAN-NI, a new UK Cyber Security Council supported pathway for those entering the profession — and sign up on the spot with help from the team.
Background information: This initiative is being kindly supported by UK Cyber Security Council under its Cyber Access Network (CAN). CAN is the UKCSC's newest initiative with the goal to empower and support the next generation of cyber security professionals.
W/ UKC3 - UK Cyber Cluster Collaboration .
Breakfast Club
🗓29 May at CSIT!
⏰9.30am - 10.30am
Spaces are limited, so make sure to register early (and just once, please!) via the link below:https://lnkd.in/gnvy9pGf.
ServerlessDays Belfast is back - 15th May at Titanic Hotel, Belfast
ServerlessDays Belfast 2025: Serverless is Serving – building with confidence and excellence
ServerlessDays Belfast, the software community conference focused on the industry’s movement towards serverless and modern cloud technology, returns on Thursday 15th May 2025.
The CySpace Connected Capability Network (CCN) coming to NI on 3rd June
The CySpace Connected Capability Network (CCN) is led by SpaceWest and delivered in partnership with Frazer-Nash Consultancy, Space South Central, North West Space Cluster, Space North East, Space Wales, Space East and Space Northern Ireland as well as cyber clusters across the UK. The programme is funded and supported by the Satellite Applications Catapult as part of their Connected Capability programme.
News and updates
Shortlist Announced for NI’s 2025 Women in Tech Awards
We're delighted to see that our co-founder and Director Judith Millar has been short-listed for the Women in Business NI Women in Tech Awards 2025! Judith is nominated amongst an incredible line up of visionary women and allies, all forging a fantastic future for our local tech sector. Judith is nominated for:
✨ C Level Woman of the Year
✨ Tech Advocate of the Year (sponsored by MHS)
Good luck Judith and to all of the wonderful nominees!
Cyber Security and Resilience Policy Statement to strengthen regulation of critical sectors
The UK’s cyber resilience is set to get a major boost. The government has published a policy statement on the forthcoming Cyber Security and Resilience Bill, outlining proposed new powers to better protect our critical national infrastructure. This marks a significant shift in how the UK approaches cyber risk at a national level.
Why read it? If you're involved in managing risk, security compliance, or supporting essential services, this blog gives early insight into how future regulation may impact your sector – and where resilience expectations are heading. Read here: https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/blog-post/cyber-security-resilience-bill-policy-statement
W/ National Cyber Security Centre
DSIT updates
Over the past number of weeks, Department for Science, Innovation and Technology has released a number of sectoral updates.
Cyber Governance Code of Practice
Cyber sectoral analysis
Cyber breaches survey feedback
Did you miss our Cyber Switch Webinar?
This webinar kicked off the Cyber Switch initiative—a series of events (see above!) and activities designed to support individuals in Northern Ireland who are transitioning into cybersecurity or returning to the sector. Our goal is to provide guidance, networking opportunities, and a clear pathway toward professional registration with the UK Cyber Security Council. Many people have misconceptions about cybersecurity roles and the wide variety of opportunities available, which can be a barrier to entry. The Cyber Switch aims to provide key insights to help career changers and returners make informed decisions about joining this dynamic industry.
Catch up here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K_WXJpqNjMw
Cyber Access Network survey
Are you a student, career changer, returner, or someone supporting others into tech? Your voice is exactly what we need! Please take 2 minutes to Help Us Identify Barriers to Cyber Security Careers! The Cyber Access Network (CAN) – launched by the UK Cyber Security Council and UKC3 - UK Cyber Cluster Collaboration – is on a mission to better support students (16+), career changers, and those outside traditional pathways into cyber security roles.They're running a national survey to uncover regional barriers, access challenges, and what support is really needed. Whether you’re exploring cyber, already in the pipeline, or helping others find their way — your insight matters.Who should fill this in?- Students (16+) thinking about cyber- Career changers or returners- Educators, mentors, and programme leads- Anyone working to increase access to tech careersHelp make the sector more inclusive, diverse, and accessible for all:take the survey (2 mins max):
Thought leadership
"NI has the potential to continue to lead the charge for a secure and prosperous cyberspace".
Joanne English of NI Cyber was guest contributor on Pivotal Platform (w/ Pivotal, The Public Policy Forum NI Limited.
Opportunities
The Cyber Direct Entry Scheme offers an accelerated path into military cyber roles. Read more below...
Thank you so much to all of our members and sponsors for their support in enabling us to continue to build on our global reputation for cyber security excellence.
We're continuing to welcome new members and corporate supporters. For more information on how to get involved with the cluster, please contact our Cluster Manager Joanne English .