Cybersecurity is a field that demands problem-solving skills. Yes, you need to learn the always evolving technical skills. However, without the critical thinking and creativity necessary to troubleshoot and resolve problems, technical skills are merely learned facts you can recite. I find problem solving to be an enjoyable challenge. I must know that I am asking the right questions and identifying the true issues and I must find a route to an effective solution. In complex problems, I have to know the questions to ask to ensure I am finding the root cause and I must ensure I have thought out the multiple options for resolution, including potential weaknesses that could be part of a solution. This is a skill that I've developed over the years, one that -even when I can't use it in a paid job - I find ways to deploy for fun. If you've ever played Magic the Gathering competitively, you might be familiar with the demand for problem solving. My goal, though, is to work where my skills can benefit a team. After taking a career detour due to family illness and personal loss, I’ve gained a unique perspective on life and work. Working blue-collared jobs have not been dream jobs, but they built work ethic, determination, and the respect for all. Now I have taken advantage of the opportunity to pursue my personal career goals by learning the technical skills needed to serve the cybersecurity industry. Currently, I’m a full-time worker also attending college part-time to gain a degree in information technologies, and I look forward to successfully transitioning into InfoSec.