How to Break Into Cybersecurity in 2026

Wondering how to break into cybersecurity with no experience? You’re asking the right question—and we’ve got answers based on real results, not theory. In this session, Tabitha Flax, CEO of Haystack Solutions, draws on years of placing cybersecurity talent to share which paths actually work, which certifications open doors fastest, and what separates candidates who land jobs from those who stay stuck. Walk away with a realistic plan built on what actually gets people hired.

What You’ll Learn

This isn’t another generic “get certified and apply for jobs” session. Tabitha brings a talent strategist’s perspective—she’s seen firsthand which candidates get hired and why. You’ll learn which entry-level certifications employers actually care about and which ones to skip, how to build hands-on skills when you don’t have access to enterprise environments, realistic timelines for career changers versus recent graduates, and which roles are genuinely entry-level versus those that say “entry-level” but expect three years of experience. We’ll also cover how to position IT help desk, networking, or other tech experience toward security roles—and what to do if you’re starting from scratch with no IT background at all.

Who Should Attend

This session is built for anyone serious about breaking into cybersecurity—career changers exploring security as a new direction, IT professionals looking to pivot into security roles, recent graduates trying to figure out where to start, and anyone overwhelmed by conflicting advice on certifications and career paths. Whether you’re wondering if you need a degree, debating Security+ versus other certs, or just trying to figure out if cybersecurity is right for you, this session gives you a clear-eyed view of what it actually takes.

Exclusive Benefits for Attendees