Open to Year 11 and Year 12 students nationwide, the ASD Cybersecurity and Robotics Work Experience program represents an opportunity to explore careers in STEM-related fields at the Australian Cyber Security Centre in Canberra. The week-long program encourages students to engage with a number of practical challenges, which emulate real-world scenarios the ASD encounter during their regular operations. These scenarios include:
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identifying security intrusions on a computer system
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learning how to identify email compromises
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learning to monitor network traffic to detect exploits
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learning how to conduct forensic examinations of hard drives
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learning about web application vulnerabilities
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learning modern encryption methods
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learning about different types of encryption and how they protect data
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using open-source software to recover keys and encrypt and decrypt data
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learning about geospatial analysis and how to use geospatial tools for imagery analysis
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engineering hardware and software solutions for security problems
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robotics programming using Arduinos
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construction of Arduino electrical circuits.
In addition to their participation in scenarios, students are also mentored throughout the program by experienced and highly specialised ASD employees, with travel and accommodation expenses covered by the host organisation. Speaking with Amy about the opportunity that awaits, her passion for all things technology shines through:
“Cybersecurity is really interesting to me, and the idea that the Australian Signals Directorate work on such a massive scale is really fascinating. I did a lot of research on the ASD to help prepare my application, and was honestly in disbelief when I received the advice that I had been accepted into the program. I’m extremely excited – this program really interests me and I can’t wait!”
Amy also reflected on the importance an opportunity like this plays in both helping to solidify post-school aspirations, and to reflect on the opportunities present in the curriculum offered here at the College:
“I’ve been exploring the idea of studying Information Technology, with a specialisation in Cybersecurity, at university. To complete my application I had to discuss my experience with cybersecurity and robotics – most of which has come from my studies and co-curricular activities here at Faith. This is going to be my first time in Canberra, and I’m really looking forward to it!
We wish Amy all the best for her trip in September, and look forward to her reflections on her experience in the nation’s capital. Great work, Amy!
