Noah Hacks His Way to Success with a Secure Software Apprenticeship

Noah’s journey to a career in cybersecurity wasn’t a straight line—it was a strategic shift.

With a Finance degree in hand, he started his career in accounting at Caterpillar. But his passion for technology, fueled by a minor in Cybersecurity, led him to a life-changing opportunity: a Secure Software apprenticeship made possible through Illinois Central College’s partnership with Caterpillar.

The apprenticeship is unique because it provides an entry point into the field and offers the resources needed to catch up to peers.

Noah, ICC Student

Without the apprenticeship, Noah says breaking into the cybersecurity field would have been nearly impossible—too costly, too time-consuming, and requiring a complete career reset. Cybersecurity isn’t typically an entry-level field, but the apprenticeship through ICC and Caterpillar gave him a direct pathway to his dream job.

One of Noah’s biggest challenges? Mastering the coding languages essential for Secure Software. Like learning any new language, it takes patience and practice, but the hands-on approach of his apprenticeship allowed him to apply new skills in a real-world setting, making complex concepts easier to grasp.

He credits Professor Shari Tripp with shaping his learning experience. Her enthusiasm, thoughtful assignments, and guidance on ethical AI use made a lasting impact, something Noah wasn’t expecting from an online course.

“I really enjoy getting the chance to learn the fundamentals in class while gaining real-world experience at the same time,” says Noah.

Looking ahead, Noah hopes to pay it forward. He believes apprenticeships like his—where education and industry collaborate—are key to breaking the cycle of poverty and preparing individuals to succeed in the workforce. His goal is to become a leader and mentor, empowering others to follow in his footsteps and benefit from the same opportunities that shaped his success.