Leonard Kong joined CFCI’s third cohort with a clear goal: learn the skills, then pivot into a cybersecurity role. So the deciding factor for him was simple.
“The biggest draw for me was that there was support for career advancement, because I was looking to do the course and then pivot into a role.”
A lot of career switchers worry less about whether they can learn the material and more about what happens after. Building the skills is only half the journey. Getting into the first role is the other half, and it is the half that good career support is built to carry.
A place where no question is silly
For Leonard, the learning environment mattered as much as the syllabus.
“The teaching style suits someone like me because it’s practical and hands-on, and it’s an environment where you can ask questions. You don’t have to feel silly or stupid for asking any question.”
That matters more than it sounds. When you are switching from a completely different field, the fear of asking an obvious question is often what slows people down. Removing that fear is what lets a beginner move quickly.
Learning by doing, not memorising
Leonard is clear that the hands-on approach is what made the material stick.
“The hands-on practice is crucial to actually understanding the material, not just saying you’ve memorised or read the book, but being able to implement it, think laterally and problem solve. The blend of self-directed learning and being challenged were really strong points.”
He also valued the people he learned alongside.
“CFCI is excellent at bringing together the community.”
His parting advice is refreshingly direct.
“If you’re thinking about the course, deliberate over it, think carefully. But what do you have to lose? There shouldn’t be any hesitation.”
For a full walkthrough of how career switchers approach this move — including what to expect at each stage — see our guide to switching into cybersecurity in Singapore.
Leonard’s own next step is a good template. Start with a free info session and the free experiential workshop, where basic questions are exactly the point. The flagship Career Kickstart programme pairs hands-on learning with career support through to your first role.
80% of graduates who completed the full programme and career services secured cybersecurity employment (as of early 2026), and 75% of graduates who secured cyber roles had no prior IT background. To meet others who made the move, browse our graduate stories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does cybersecurity training in Singapore include career support?
The best programmes do. CFCI's flagship includes career services that help you pivot into a role, not just pass a course. 80% of graduates who completed the full programme and career services secured cybersecurity employment (as of early 2026).
What if I am afraid of asking basic questions in a technical course?
A beginner-first course expects basic questions, and asking them is how hands-on understanding is built. You should never feel silly for asking. The most effective learning comes from trying, getting stuck, asking, and trying again.