Empowering Cybersecurity Aspirants Through CEH Certification: An Interview with Ethan Tan

  • Ethan Tan
  • Ethical Hacking
As proactive defense becomes increasingly essential, businesses are actively leveraging ethical hacking to test their infrastructure for vulnerabilities. This strategic shift has significantly driven the growing demand for cybersecurity professionals with ethical hacking expertise. To explore the impact of EC-Council’s Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification on aspiring cybersecurity professionals in the early stages of their education and careers, EC-Council connected with Ethan Tan, an ICT student pursuing a future in cybersecurity. This testimonial explores the journey of this young cybersecurity enthusiast who earned the CEH certification at an early age. He credits the certification with enhancing his academic performance, inspiring community engagement, and providing a solid foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of the field. It highlights the value of early exposure to cybersecurity education and the pivotal role the CEH plays in shaping future professionals. The following exchange captures Ethan’s reflections on how the CEH influenced his cybersecurity career.

Tell us about your journey as a cybersecurity professional.

My journey in cybersecurity began quite early—I earned my first EC-Council certification (CEH) at a very young age. Currently, I’m in university, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in ICT with a specialization in information security. Along the way, I’ve continued to build my expertise by earning a diploma (equivalent to an associate’s degree) and several other industry-relevant certifications. My passion for cybersecurity drives me to continuously develop my skills and stay updated in this ever-evolving field.

What got your attention about the CEH program?

What initially drew me to the CEH program was its comprehensive coverage of cybersecurity fundamentals.

As someone relatively new to the field at the time, I was introduced to core concepts while also exploring more advanced topics through the program.
This significantly enhanced my understanding of the cybersecurity landscape and provided a solid foundation to build upon.

How did CEH benefit your career?

Although I’m still a student and haven’t officially started my professional career, the CEH certification has already proved valuable. A simple job search shows that CEH is highly regarded by employers and frequently listed as a key requirement. CEH has strengthened my qualifications and positioned me well for future opportunities in the cybersecurity field.

How recognized is CEH in your organization and the industry?

As mentioned earlier,

CEH is widely recognized and respected in the industry. Job listings consistently show that candidates with this certification are preferred over others, reinforcing its value and credibility.

Did CEH help you in any way, such as in getting a job, a promotion, or higher pay?

Since I’m still a student, I haven’t yet entered the workforce. However, I’m confident that the CEH certification will help me get a foot in the door and stand out during job interviews. It’s a strong credential that opens doors to many opportunities.

How has the CEH certification impacted you?

The CEH certification has significantly impacted me by providing a solid foundation in cybersecurity, which has been instrumental in supporting my studies at the tertiary level.

It equipped me with the essential knowledge and skills that have enhanced my academic performance and deepened my understanding of this field.

Did CEH help you give back to the community in any way?

Yes! The CEH certification has inspired me to give back. I plan to conduct cybersecurity awareness classes for younger children.

As a young CEH certification holder—I’m eager to share my knowledge and encourage the next generation to explore careers in cybersecurity.

What was your favorite part of the CEH program, and why?

My favorite part of the CEH program was its blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application.

The hands-on labs allowed me to apply what I learned in a simulated environment, reinforcing my understanding and equipping me with real-world skills.

Do you attribute any part of your success to EC-Council? If so, do you have a message for the team?

Absolutely. While it’s still early in my journey, I recognize the significant role EC-Council has played in laying the foundation for my future success. I truly appreciate the quality and rigor of their programs and look forward to leveraging the skills and knowledge I’ve gained as I advance in the cybersecurity field.

Conclusion

The CEH certification has been a transformative milestone in Ethan’s early cybersecurity journey, equipping him with essential knowledge, practical skills, and the confidence to pursue a future in this dynamic field. Beyond personal growth, it has also inspired Ethan to give back by educating and encouraging children on cybersecurity awareness. As Ethan’s story illustrates, the CEH certification plays a crucial role in providing a rigorous and impactful program on ethical hacking, empowering cybersecurity aspirants to gain holistic and functional knowledge and skills to propel their careers in this field.

About the Interviewee

Ethan Tan is an undergraduate student at the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT), pursuing a bachelor’s in information and communications technology with a specialization in information security. With a strong focus on cybersecurity, he has developed both technical and practical skills essential for securing modern IT systems through his academic training and industry certifications.
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