Cyber Security Apprentice, Ellie O' Dowd tell us about the scheme

“I joined the BBC’s Cyber Security team in September 2017 on an 18 month apprenticeship. I decided to apply for this scheme after realising that University wasn’t the right route for me, and knowing that I would be more suited to, and benefit more from, an apprenticeship. I applied based purely off of an interest for learning more about cyber security and hopefully pursuing a career in the field, as it’s such a fast-growing and interesting industry.

The BBC is a fascinating place to work, with everyday presenting me with a new opportunity to develop in my role. Since starting my apprenticeship, I’ve had so many great opportunities to get involved with different aspects of the Cyber/Information Security team, from carrying out awareness campaigns to employees across the BBC, to helping to produce an Information Asset Register.

Aside from your everyday role, there are also numerous opportunities to get involved with other areas of the BBC. For example, I am part of the school outreach/STEM ambassador program, where I help out at events either in the BBC offices or in schools, in order to encourage young students to consider a career in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), whether it be at the BBC or elsewhere.

I am very proud to be one of the Cyber Security team’s first apprentices and hope to encourage more young people like myself to take the apprenticeship route, as they are a great way to kick start your career. I am provided with high level training from my colleagues daily, and given excellent opportunities to develop and further my knowledge.”