Name: Paul McAleer
(ISC)² Exams Passed: CAP and CISSP
Title: Information Assurance Specialist Site Lead
Employer: AlphaSix Corporation (Government Contrator)
Location: Washington, DC
Education: MS in Cybersecurity
Years in information security: 2 years
Certifications: Security+, ITIL V3, CCSK

 

What did you want to be when you were a child?

Most of my family is musical, so I wanted to be professional guitar player. I started playing electric guitar at age 11. I played in bands and for my church. Playing guitar and writing music are still hobbies for me.

 

If you were given three more hours per day, what would you do with it?

I would volunteer again at the Arlington Food Assistance Center where I interned. They gather groceries and distribute them to families. It’s pretty meaningful work.

 

 What is something most people don’t know about you?

 I have a passion for behavioral and cognitive psychology and that’s what my major was in college.

 

Why did you become an Associate of (ISC)²?

When I was 15, I saw my mom (who was a database administrator), study for months to get her CISSP. It sparked my interest in cybersecurity and certification. Plus, I like to challenge myself.

 

How has becoming Associate of (ISC)² helped you?

It has already opened doors and propelled my career. And I’ve gained respect from senior management and my colleagues. I took the CAP exam first, it’s all about the Risk Management Framework, which is highly relevant for what I do now. And passing two exams— CAP and CISSP, really gave me a true sense of accomplishment.

 

What advice would you give to someone who is on the fence about pursuing the Associate of (ISC)²?

If you’re going to choose just one certification, consider an (ISC)² certification since they are so well respected around the world.

 

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Eventually I want to become a senior security control assessor or a senior information systems security officer and keep working as a government contractor.

 

Watch these videos to learn more about the Associate of (ISC)².