Detail

SP alumnus Alden Chia, 20, spent nine months from September 2024 earning six professional cybersecurity certifications while completing his internship as an associate system engineer. Of the $6,000 he earned in six months, he spent about $4,500 on these courses, clocking more than 600 hours of online learning to prepare for a career in offensive security (ethical hacking). Graduating in April 2025 with a Diploma in Infocomm Security Management, Mr Chia balanced his “grind” with rock climbing thrice weekly for social interaction. His commitment reflects a growing trend among tech aspirants to “stack” online certifications alongside internships and CCAs to stand out in the job market. He is currently taking a break before starting a cybersecurity work-study programme as part of his national service.

[The Straits Times]