November 27, 2024 – Wavelink, an Infinigate Group company and a leader in providing enterprise solutions to the channel, has recently expanded its SecurePath industry employment initiative from Adelaide to Melbourne, continuing efforts to connect emerging cybersecurity professionals with industry leaders. The initiative, originally launched in Adelaide, responds to Australia’s pressing need for skilled cybersecurity experts. Estimates indicate a shortfall of around 16,600 cybersecurity professionals by 2026, making programs like SecurePath critical in closing the gap.1
The inaugural SecurePath event was held in Adelaide last year, connecting over 100 students from the University of South Australia and TAFE SA with Wavelink and its partners, and Fortinet. This year, the event returned to Adelaide, drawing between 90 and 100 attendees, and expanded into Melbourne, where it welcomed more than 100 Victorian students from institutions like Melbourne Polytechnic, Federation University Australia, Holmesglen Institute, and Swinburne University. Across both cities, students engaged with Wavelink’s diverse network of partners, including Optimus Systems, Bridged Group, Honeylight Consulting, BluBiz Solutions, Arxis, Wireless Communications, Compnow, Iocane, Vocus, Subnet, Comunet, and Duco Limited.
The initiative helps students kickstart their careers in cybersecurity, particularly those who have completed Fortinet NSE4 training as part of their core curriculum. Timed to align with the end of their studies, the recent events featured a speed-networking format that let students engage directly with representatives from Wavelink’s partners.
Nick Touzeau, chief operating officer, Wavelink, said, “Wavelink’s partners face challenges in finding skilled cybersecurity talent consistently, particularly as the demand for security professionals continues to rise. Wavelink created the SecurePath initiative to help partners access fresh talent and bridge this skills gap. This initiative also lets Wavelink contribute to Australia’s cybersecurity community and job market by supporting the next generation of professionals.”
Trent White, chief technology officer, Wireless Communications, said, “The shortage of skilled cybersecurity professionals in Australia is a real challenge for businesses like Wireless Communications. The SecurePath program offers a unique setting where we can connect with graduates in a social environment, helping us identify potential hires who fit the Wireless Communications culture.
“Last year, we hired three students directly from the Adelaide event, and they’ve quickly become valuable members of our team. It’s a great way to turn informal conversations into future job opportunities, and we’re excited to build more genuine connections with people who are passionate about cybersecurity.”
One student, who attended the first Adelaide event and now works at Wireless Communications, reflected on the experience.
Cooper Laheney, ICT Support Engineer at Wireless Communications, said, “Breaking into cybersecurity can be tough, especially for students looking for their first role. This event made it possible to meet and speak directly with companies in my city, giving me a clear understanding of what they expect. The insights I gained helped me transition from student to professional. I recommend any tertiary student looking to get a career in cybersecurity to attend and take advantage of the networking opportunities this event offers.”
Wavelink is committed to continuing the SecurePath initiative, seeking to broaden its impact while addressing the cybersecurity skills shortage in Australia. For more details, visit the Wavelink website.
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About Wavelink
Wavelink, an Infinigate Group company, is a fast-growing Australian IT distributor providing leading-edge cybersecurity and mobility enterprise solutions to the channel. Wavelink is renowned for its trust and significant recognition in the Australian market.
Founded in 1998 and headquartered in Melbourne, Wavelink employs over 60 staff nationally. The company offers a diverse portfolio of market-leading vendors that provide partners with complete solutions via technology expertise, local market knowledge, comprehensive enablement and support programs as well as a range of industry-leading services.
For more information, visit www.wavelink.com.au.
