MBO Students Dive into the World of Cybersecurity and Discover Career Opportunities

On 27 October, over 70 ICT-students from ROC Mondriaan Tinwerf in The Hague Southwest had the opportunity to gain more insight into digital security and career opportunities in this sector during the 'Mbo Cybertalent event'. In the Technology Innovation House they could join master classes by cybersecurity experts, interactive workshops, a network market and a large cyber escaperoom truck was parked in front of the building. The event was organised by Security Delta (HSD), ROC Mondriaan and the municipality of The Hague in the context of the cybersecurity month and the 10th anniversary of Security Delta (HSD).

The Mbo Cybertalent event was opened by deputy mayor Saskia Bruines, followed by introductions from Saskia Noordewier, deputy director at HSD and Marcel Kropmans, Chief Information Officer at ROC Mondriaan. Together they addressed the significant shortage of cybersecurity talent and the role of mbo talent. Because as cyber threats continue to evolve in complexity, the need for skilled cybersecurity professionals has never been more critical.

Saskia Bruines: “The Hague is a city, in which security plays a significant role. It is not without reason that a network of security businesses, governments and knowledge institutions has emerged here, where amongst others MBO students find a job. This event was created to give the students of ROC Mondriaan Tinwerf a greater sense of the possibilities in this industry ánd to discover the talent in The Hague Southwest and offer them unique opportunities.”

At the event students increased their knowledge in the field of digital security and gained insight into career opportunities through interesting masterclasses given by Suzanne Rijnbergen from Accenture, Zawadi Done from Hunt & Hackett, Jorrit van de Walle from Audittrail and Danny Swuste and Matthijs Miga from the Dutch police.

Jorrit van de Walle: “I am honored to have contributed to this event, where we have the opportunity to nurture the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. The future of our digital world partially depends on their skills and dedication, and it's inspiring to see the enthusiasm and potential. I started my career as a middle level student as wel, so I can relate to the dreams and aspirations of these young talents."

Networking

The event also offered valuable networking opportunities between students and cybersecurity professionals from our partners such as Tien Security, Bizway, Audittrail, the national police force, TIIN Capital and Group-IB. Providing them with insight into innovations and careers within the cybersecurity sector. It enabled students to make valuable contacts for their future career in this dynamic sector.

Cyber Escaperoom 

As a highlight of the day students were also challenged to put their skills and knowledge to the test in the exciting mobile Cyber Escaperoom. This enabled students to immediately put their acquired knowledge into practice, while developing practical skills to effectively tackle digital threats.

Chief Information Officer, Marcel Kropmans: "With this talent development event middle-level students are enabled to further develop their interest in cybersecurity and utilise their potential. It provided a first step in increasing their career opportunities.”

The reactions of the students showed that it was a fruitfull event: concrete connections were made for potential internships and future job opportunities. In addition, the students were supprised by the diversity of the cybersecurity workfield and the inspiring sessions with concrete examples and cases.

Human Capital Agenda Security

The Mbo Cybertalent Event aligns with the activities set out within the Human Capital Agenda Security, which Security Delta (HSD) has developed in collaboration with the Centre for Security & Digitalisation (CVD) and input from approximately 70 parties. This agenda calls for collective action to solve the shortage of cyber and security talent. In addition, The Municipality of The Hague is currently working on a local approach to address the talent shortage in the international city of Peace and Justice.

The Mbo Cybertalent event is part of the 'Kansen voor West II/Cyberkracht' programme and HSD activities surrounding our 10th anniversary, were treating people to knowledge is key. Not only within our own HSD community, but also with the entrepreneurs and residents of the city. Because cybercrime can affect anyone. To this end, HSD works closely with many partners. 

Read the Press Release (in Dutch)