---Natalie’s Apprentice Journey:

After over a decade in the fashion industry, I started to think about a career change, driven by concerns over the industry's environmental impact and a sense of lacking purpose. I didn’t know what else or what I wanted to do, so I felt a bit stuck. The pandemic hit, and my position was made redundant. This gave me a push to really explore my transferable skills, what I had liked about my career so far, and what I wanted from my next career.

Reflecting on both these, I have a passion for learning. I had worked my way up from working in store to the head office as an intern to a senior position, I was always looking for the next challenge. Creative problem solving was a big part of my previous role, as well as working as part of a team. I had a keen interest in the technology side, working with CAD and 3D systems to help reduce time creating patterns and checking the fits before going into production. During the pandemic, I heard more about cybercrimes, and this piqued my interest in cybersecurity. I also have a keen interest in criminology, a desire to protect others and a dislike for injustice, which contributed to my decision to explore a career in cybersecurity.

Encouraged by my family to retrain (as the fashion industry is declining and cybersecurity is growing), I started studying for the CompTIA A+ certificate at the start of 2021 and completed it in October 2022. It was challenging to balance studying while working full time, but the sense of achievement and that I had taken my first step towards making the change that I needed.

My role was again made redundant at the end of May 2023. I took this as an opportunity to finally take the leap and change careers. Attending a job fair, I was drawn to apprenticeships as I have a practical learning style, and having progressed from the ground up in my previous career would make it well-suited for me. I discovered Origin8tive's cybersecurity technician apprenticeship on the gov.uk apprentice website, applied, and was fortunate to land the role.

From the interview to my time at O8, I have experienced nothing but support, encouragement, and inclusion. The welcoming and flexible environment has allowed me to learn at my own pace, fostering a sense of new purpose in everything I am learning and being challenged with. The opportunity to participate in our outreach programs, from engaging with students during National Apprenticeship Week to participating in STEM activities with Pates Grammar School to help inspire the next generation in STEM, has brought me immense fulfilment. I am excited to continue my journey with Origin8tive , eager to see where it takes me.