Ben

A kitchen under lockdowns

In Australia, navigating career changes is common, with the average person experiencing five such transitions in their lifetime. This journey, filled with both trepidation and excitement, is something Ben knows well. After a 15-year-long career as a chef in Australia's bustling culinary scene, Ben faced a pivotal moment at the age of 33.

“You reach a point where you either burn out or invest further in the industry. I had seen it all in the kitchen,” he reflects. Ben's career in gastronomy, starting as a dish hand and culminating as a head chef, was abruptly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The lockdown period was tumultuous for chefs. The constant uncertainty of ‘can cook, can’t cook’ was quite daunting,” Ben recalls. It was during these challenging times that he stumbled upon an opportunity to pivot his career. 

From culinary to cyber security

Discovering a government-sponsored list of free courses, Ben was immediately drawn to cyber security. “It seemed like a sign. I’ve always been fascinated by the digital world,” he shares. Though his professional life had been steeped in the culinary arts, Ben found that his skills from the kitchen were unexpectedly relevant in the realm of cyber security.

“Managing kitchens teaches you a lot about people and problem-solving. These analytical skills and my ability to thrive in high-pressure environments became my strengths in cyber security,” Ben notes. His positive attitude and soft skills, honed in the demanding world of hospitality, gave him a dynamic approach to his new field.  

Ben's journey from chef to cyber security took a significant leap forward when he enrolled in a Certificate IV in Cyber Security. This led to his participation in Swinburne’s partnership program with Deloitte Cyber Academy and a pivotal paid internship with Coles Group.

The time to reinvent is now

Reflecting on his career shift, Ben expresses a newfound sense of balance and optimism. “After 15 years of the hectic life of a chef, I’m now experiencing a work-life harmony I never thought possible. Cyber security is an ever-evolving field, and it feels like I’m at the start of a very rewarding journey.”

Despite the challenges of a late-career change, Ben’s story is a testament to the potential of reinvention and adaptability. His experience in the hospitality sector, combined with a newfound passion for cyber security, exemplifies the diverse paths one's career can take, especially in an era where the digital landscape is continually expanding.