On this third day of my journey, I’m reflecting on the mix of excitement and concerns I’m experiencing. There’s so much happening in AI, security, and technology — it’s thrilling but also overwhelming at times.
Certifications and Shifting Goals
I originally planned to focus on the Palo Alto PCSAE certification, but it’s now considered legacy. With a new certification rumored to arrive around July, I’ve put that goal on hold for now. Meanwhile, I’m continuing to work on my AWS DevSecOps path, which aligns well with my interests in automation and cloud security.
Navigating the AI/ML Trend
Scrolling through social media, I see a lot of mockery toward people attempting to adapt their resumes to include AI/ML. I’ve laughed at some posts, but I’m also one of the people they’re mocking. The reality is, AI/ML is becoming seamless — a natural extension of the tools we use. Much like how owning a smartphone isn’t considered a skill but integrating it into workflows is essential, AI will become ubiquitous.
Application development, security, and creative problem-solving remain incredibly relevant. I’m genuinely excited to dive into these changes, not because they’re trendy but because they feel pivotal to the future. I hope to rise as an influencer in this space, blending optimism with practical skills.
Diverse Focus Areas
I’m interested in AI/ML Security, Security Automation, Threat Intelligence, Vulnerability Management, Penetration Testing, Incident Response, and Cloud Security. It’s a lot, and this field’s complexity only continues to grow. Threat intelligence is my primary tool for staying up to date and scaling my skills.
For example, in the article “Why Small Businesses Can’t Rely Solely on AI to Combat Threats,” it’s noted how remote work has changed business culture. Employees now operate in less regulated spaces, making cybersecurity vigilance more crucial than ever. Public Wi-Fi, shadow APIs, and other vulnerabilities highlight the need for adaptability and holistic oversight. I see this as a call for people who can look at the bigger picture and evolve with the tools.
Concerns in AI Security
The rapid advancement of AI comes with its share of threats. Malicious actors are innovating alongside the rest of us, using AI for goals far from ideal. Articles like “API Security Perspectives 2025” from Kong Inc. highlight worrying statistics, such as only 35% of organizations adopting zero-trust architecture to mitigate API risks.
Another article, “New AI Jailbreak Method ‘Bad Likert Judge’,” discusses obfuscation techniques that boost attack success rates by over 60%. This reminds me that whether human or AI, cunning and adaptability remain constant in the cybersecurity landscape.
Finding Focus Through Projects
I’ve been struggling with defining my current project. Gamification has been an invaluable resource for me. Platforms like TryHackMe, HackTheBox, and OverTheWire have expanded my perspective, but I’m not advancing as quickly as I’d like. I need to focus on understanding the hacker mindset and leveraging Security Automation, Cloud Security, and AI Security to address these challenges.
One project idea I’ve been considering is creating a digital pet or companion. This tool wouldn’t just regurgitate concepts but would actively assist in navigating cybersecurity. It needs to be competitive with industry standards, seamlessly integrating into workflows while being practical and intuitive.
Overcoming Fear and Building Confidence
One of my biggest challenges is stepping away from reliance on industry-standard tools. This fear reflects my lack of confidence, but it’s also why I’m on this journey. I want to develop the skills and tools to handle whatever comes my way, from bad actors to advancing AI and evolving technology.
My ultimate goal is to create something that not only levels the playing field for me but also empowers others who feel the same. This journey is as much about personal growth as it is about professional development. Here’s to continuing to learn, adapt, and build the future. I have videos, playbooks and more stories in the making. I will produce transformative content.
