As cyber threats grow in complexity and frequency, the demand for skilled cyber security professionals has grown. However, the industry faces two significant challenges: a shortage of qualified Cyber Essentials Assessors and a lack of diversity within the sector. IASME is tackling these challenges through the Trainee Cyber Essentials Assessor (TCEA) scheme which offers an alternative route into the cyber security industry. The IASME Trainee Cyber Essentials Assessor program offers a pathway for individuals with no prior experience to assess Cyber Essentials applications under a qualified mentor, with the option to additionally pursue a Level 3 ICT Apprenticeship.
This streamlined approach not only addresses the growing demand for certifications but also opens doors for individuals from diverse backgrounds to enter the field.
Last year, IASME funded young people on the TCEA pilot programme to attend CyberUK, the UK government’s flagship cyber security event.
“The cyber security sector faces a shortage of accessible entry-level pathways. IASME’s approach, through initiatives like the TCEA programme and finding for CyberUK attendance, is making a real difference. By breaking down barriers and fostering inclusivity, these efforts equip the next generation with the tools, confidence, and networks to thrive in this critical field.
Attending CyberUK is a transformative experience, offering young people the chance to connect with industry leaders, explore cutting-edge developments, and see the impact they can have in combating cyber threats.
The success stories from trainees are proof that these initiatives work, helping them gain qualifications, build careers, and bring fresh perspectives to a sector in need of diverse talent.”– Wendy Barker, Chief Cyber Skills Officer.
One year later, we caught up with several of the trainees to see what they were doing and how the programme has impacted their career.
Liberty Gibbs
Since attending CyberUK, Liberty has made steady progress in her cyber security career. She is currently completing her Level 3 Cyber Security Technician apprenticeship and is in the final three months, focusing on exams and end-point assessments. Looking ahead, Liberty is exploring the CRISC (Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control) qualification, as it aligns with her long-term interest in risk, governance, and security management. Over the next few years, she plans to work towards CISM (Certified Information Security Manager) and CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) to further develop her technical knowledge and leadership capabilities. She is also learning to, and has assisted in auditing to PCI DSS and ISO27001 as this aligns with Liberty’s company services and clients.
“Meeting and speaking with other professionals at the conference helped reinforce my career direction and motivated me to actively build my professional network, particularly with other early-career and younger cyber professionals”.
Alice Hill
Alice Hill has made remarkable progress since embarking on her journey in cyber security. Starting out on the IASME 10-week foundation cyber security training for adults with barriers to employment, Alice joined the TCEA programme and has since achieved significant milestones in her career. She has settled into her role as a Junior Cyber Security Consultant at KeySigma, where she has gained a solid understanding of Cyber Essentials and begun marking basic assessments. After completing the shadowing phase, Alice now works independently, with her mentor signing off on her work. She has also taken on more complex cases, such as assessing partial scopes for organisations.
Alice recently reached a major milestone by passing The Cyber Scheme’s Cyber Advisor exam, a fantastic achievement that reflects her hard work, dedication, and commitment to developing her cyber security expertise. This accomplishment demonstrates her strong technical knowledge and ability to support organisations in strengthening their cyber resilience. A huge congratulations to Alice on this significant achievement.
“CyberUK 2025 was a great experience early in my cyber security career. I had only been working at a Cyber Essentials Certification Body for about a month at the time, so it was really inspiring to see the breadth of the industry and speak with experts from different sectors. The talks were engaging and helped expand my understanding of the field.
Since then, I’ve continued developing in my role, supporting Cyber Essentials assessments and Cyber Essentials Plus audits under supervision of my mentor, while learning from experienced professionals and helping organisations strengthen their security. It’s been especially rewarding helping smaller businesses improve their cyber resilience, and it’s confirmed my interest in progressing down a more technical path in cyber security.”
Sabrina Wressell
Sabrina has recently begun working on Cyber Essentials Plus (CE+) mock audits with Bridewell and has achieved her ISO/IEC 27001 Lead Auditor qualification. She has also been involved in ISO projects, including supporting system implementation activities and participating in audits. Sabrina has particularly enjoyed beginning work on CE+, as it provides an opportunity for Sabrina to apply technical skills in practice. While she enjoys working across the different areas of GRC, her long‑term goal is to specialise in PCI compliance. Sabrina recognises that breaking into the cyber security industry was initially challenging, but this has now been successfully overcome.
“Attending CyberUK was a great opportunity, allowing me to connect with industry colleagues and further develop my network. The workshops and panel sessions were very insightful.”
Inspiring the next generation of cyber security professionals
As the demand for cyber security professionals continues to grow, IASME remains committed to fostering a more inclusive and skilled workforce. The stories of Liberty, Alice, and Sabrina highlight the capabilities of young professionals to contribute to the future of the cyber security sector.
So we’re doing it again this year. IASME is taking 15 people from around the country who are new to the cyber industry to CyberUK 2026, aiming to empower cyber security talent and showcase the diverse opportunities available within the industry.
How to get involved
If you’re an aspiring cyber security professional or a Certification Body looking to expand your team, the Trainee Cyber Essentials Assessor programme offers an exciting opportunity. Candidates must complete the Cyber Basics assessment and the one-day Cyber Essentials Assessor training before being employed by a Certification Body. From there, they’ll gain hands-on experience under the guidance of a mentor, setting them on a path to a rewarding career in cyber security.
For more information, visit our webpage or contact [email protected]