“A cybersecurity engineer is like a wizard who helps you ensure the castle walls are strong, the invisible shields are working, and the dragons are awake to keep the bad guys out.”
- Name: Maria
- Position: Security Engineer
- Operating System: Linux all the way!
- Nationality: Estonian
Some people fall into IT by chance, but for Maria, it all started with a digital disaster – her Facebook account got hacked. Instead of panicking, she turned detective, diving into the world of malware, viruses, and cyber hygiene. That one incident, combined with a school programming course, sparked a passion that led her straight into the realm of cybersecurity.
Now, she spends her days as a digital wizard, casting protective spells (a.k.a. security measures) to keep cyber villains at bay. Whether she’s fortifying defences or learning how different industries tick, Maria thrives on the ever-evolving challenge of making the digital world a safer place.
Read on to find out more about Maria, her journey, and why she believes dragons (or at least strong security measures) are essential for keeping your treasures safe!
-
If you had to explain your job to a five-year-old, how would you do it?
Imagine you have a big, magical castle full of your favourite toys and candy. You don’t want any sneaky pirates or robots to come in and take your treasures or mess up your cool castle, right? A cybersecurity engineer is like a wizard who helps you ensure the castle walls are strong, the invisible shields are working, and the dragons are awake to keep the bad guys out. -
How did you get started in the IT field?
In 2018, my Facebook account got hacked. To remediate the situation, I started researching different topics like malware, viruses, and cyber hygiene, and suddenly, a spark was lit within me. The incident, alongside the school’s programming course, encouraged me to explore cyberspace. -
How did you find your way to your current position at Cybernetica?
I visited Cybernetica back in the day when a student society organised a get-together in the old Cybernetica Tartu office. The people and passion for IT really stood out to me. So, after working as a developer for a few years, I decided to bite the bullet and apply for a cybersecurity internship. Turns out the people are still as nice and passionate as they were years ago. :) -
What’s your favourite part of your job?
As we provide services to different organisations, I get to explore various industries, learn how products are manufactured, and, most importantly, help to improve the overall security posture. -
What’s the best thing about working at Cybernetica?
The opportunity to constantly learn and think outside the box. -
If your office had a theme song, what would it be?
Cue "The Office" theme song. -
What tech trend excites you the most right now?
I hate to admit it, but AI. -
If you weren’t in IT, what career would you have pursued? Why?
I feel like a career as a video editor would be a good fit. I like how it combines creativity, storytelling, and technical knowledge. -
Do you have any hobbies or side projects?
I love to cook, ski (both cross-country and downhill), read, and travel. Currently, I am learning Spanish and trying to sew clothes. -
Are you a cat or dog person?
I do not discriminate and like cats and dogs equally.
If you enjoyed Maria’s story, here’s your chance to join her team! Our Cybersecurity Department is looking for a new Security Engineer. If you're ready to team up with Maria and make a real impact, check out our open positions – we’d love to have you on board!