Is it Possible to Future-Proof the Cyber Workforce?

Our keynote speaker and moderator for the evening is Heather Hoddinott, Director of Solutions Engineering at Hack The Box. With deep expertise in hands-on cyber training and team capability development, Heather brings a practical, globally-informed lens to the question of workforce readiness. She'll kick things off by asking: is future-proofing even possible - or is it time to reframe how we think about skills, careers, and resilience in the cyber domain?

Following Heather’s keynote, we’ll dive into a panel discussion featuring a diverse cross-section of industry voices:

• Maryam Shoraka, Cybersecurity Lead at Sydney Trains, will share insights from within critical infrastructure, where operational safety and digital transformation must go hand in hand.
• Michael do Rozario, Partner at Corrs Chambers Westgarth and respected CyAN member, brings a legal and governance perspective on emerging risks and the frameworks needed to support future-ready teams.
• Michael McDonald, technologist and co-founder of 3 Steps Data, offers a challenger’s view from the intersection of data security, compliance, and zero-knowledge architecture.
• Andy Pedroso, Human Risk and Behaviour Specialist at SoSafe and fellow CyAN member, speaks to the human dynamics of workforce evolution - training, behavioural change, and culture.
• Britt McGill, Director of Talent and Community at LeadersIT, rounds out the panel with a front-line view of the challenges and opportunities shaping recruitment, retention, and the tech talent pipeline.

This will be an honest, energising, and nuanced conversation - no buzzwords, just real talk about the demands and possibilities of a career in cybersecurity today.

As always, the evening will feature generous networking time, refreshments, and a warm welcome from the CyAN APAC community.

Spaces are limited so book your seat now!

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Peoplebank Sydney IT Recruitment, 345 George Street, Sydney, Australia