In this episode of CCN Conversations, host Francois Guay speaks with James Cairns, CISO at Bow Valley College, about building meaningful pathways into cybersecurity for students and early-career professionals.

James shares his journey into cybersecurity, from development and system administration to leading security programs, and explains why broad experience and hands-on learning matter. The conversation focuses on the growing need for tier one roles, the importance of investing in new talent, and why automation and AI cannot replace people on the ground.

Together, Francois and James explore how community involvement, mentorship, and real-world experience help bridge the gap between education and employment, and what organizations can do to better support the next generation of cybersecurity practitioners.

This episode is especially relevant for students, recent graduates, hiring managers, and anyone thinking about how to build sustainable security teams.

Listen now and join the conversation.

In this episode of CCN Conversations, host Francois Guay sits down with Enza Alexander, Executive Vice President at ISA Cybersecurity, for a candid conversation about the human realities behind modern cybersecurity.

Enza shares her journey into the cybersecurity field, reflecting on early career challenges, lifelong learning, and what it means to build confidence in an industry that never stands still. The conversation explores how cybersecurity is not just about technology and threats, but about people, businesses, and shared responsibility.

Together, Francois and Enza discuss the importance of community, mentorship, and engagement across Canada’s cybersecurity ecosystem. They also dive into emerging topics such as AI, the evolving job market, and how professionals at every stage of their career can stay relevant, resilient, and grounded.

This episode is especially valuable for those navigating career growth in cybersecurity, adapting to rapid technological change, or looking to better understand how leadership, humility, and listening shape the future of the industry.

Key themes include:

1. Why cybersecurity is ultimately a human and business problem
2. Building confidence without needing to know everything
3. The role of community in career development
4. AI, ethics, and the importance of guardrails
5. Advice for those entering or advancing in cybersecurity

Listen now and join the conversation.

Welcome to CCN Conversations, the official podcast of the Canadian Cybersecurity Network. In this trailer, host Francois Guay, founder of CCN, introduces the vision behind the show and the community it serves.

For years, Francois has had a front row seat to how Canada’s top cybersecurity leaders defend, innovate, and shape the country’s digital future. Now, those conversations come to you.

In this episode, you’ll hear what CCN Conversations is all about:

• Real stories and honest insight from practitioners, CISOs, founders, researchers, and rising talent
• A clearer view into the real world of cybersecurity and emerging technology
• Practical conversations that cut through noise and get to what actually matters
• Guidance for leaders, builders, and those starting or growing their cybersecurity careers

If you want a smarter pulse on what is coming next—and the confidence to navigate a fast moving digital world—you’re in the right place.

Welcome to CCN Conversations. Stronger together, always.

🔗 Learn more: https://canadiancybersecuritynetwork.com/ccn-conversations