Why Cyber Security is a Trade

Introduction

The field of cyber security is fast-paced and constantly evolving, and I argue that the practical, hands-on approach of a trade is particularly well-suited to it. Just like a plumber, electrician, or builder, cyber security professionals require a diverse set of practical skills and the ability to apply them in real-world situations.

Why Cyber Security is Better as a Trade

People who learn cyber security through hands-on, practical training are more effective at their jobs. The wide variety of skills required for a career in cyber security make it more suitable as a trade rather than a profession. Cyber security is more akin to a trade, requiring a diverse set of practical skills and the ability to apply them in real-world situations.

The pursuit of quality* is a fundamental aspect of any craft or trade. In the field of cyber security, this means striving for excellence in all aspects of our work. The pursuit of quality is particularly important in the constantly evolving field of cyber security, where new threats and challenges arise daily.

The Role of Trade Unions in Standardizing Practices and Processes

Trade unions can be a valuable resource for standardizing practices and processes in the field of cyber security. By establishing standards for training, certification, and ethical conduct, trade unions can help to ensure that cyber security professionals are competent and committed to their craft and can build trust with clients and employers. Trade unions can also provide support and advocacy for workers, helping to ensure that they are treated fairly and have access to opportunities for advancement.

While I am personally not a fan of unions in most cases, I feel that if we do not establish one, we will fall into a trap of viewing ourselves as theorist instead of technicians, I fear we may have already fallen into that trap.

Overall, the practical, hands-on approach of a trade is particularly a much better means of passing on knowledge in our constantly evolving field of cyber security. By establishing a trade union and adhering to consistent, trustworthy standards for training and certification, cyber security professionals can elevate the status of their trade and be better equipped to meet the challenges of our ever-changing landscape.

Conclusion

Overall, the establishment of a trade union for cyber security professionals would be a crucial step in elevating the status and professionalism of the field. The practical, hands-on approach of a trade is particularly well-suited to our constantly evolving field, and it is essential to maintaining standards in such a dynamic environment.

 By establishing a trade union and adhering to consistent, trustworthy standards for training and certification, cyber security professionals can ensure that their trade is respected and better equipped to meet the challenges of our rapidly changing landscape. Trade unions can serve as a valuable resource for standardizing practices and processes in the field, helping to ensure that professionals are competent and committed to their craft, and building trust with clients and employers.

 Furthermore, the establishment of a trade union would hold those to account who would use people's ignorance of the cyber security field to deceive them. Overall, the establishment of a trade union for cyber security professionals is an essential step in raising the status and professionalism of the trade, and a valuable measure to ensuring fair and ethical practices in the field.

 * As described in Robert M. Pirsig's classic book "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance”