Hello there, I’m Ward Adriaensen, and I’ve had the pleasure of being a security consultant at tSF for five incredible years. Throughout this journey, I’ve realized that a job in this niche of IT is not just a job but a passion-driven activity. In this blog post, I’d like to share a glimpse into my life as a security consultant and shed light on why tSF is a great place for me.
Ward Adriaensen
Penetration tester & Security architect
During the first years of my career, the main activity in my job description was being a full-time penetration tester. Never heard of it? Well, it involves performing penetration tests on various types of infrastructure of our clients’ systems. This can range from web applications and mobile applications to network infrastructure and more. Essentially, my job is to uncover vulnerabilities before malicious actors do, helping our clients strengthen their defenses.
If you ever wondered if this job is something for you? Well, the only thing you need is a solid foundation in IT and a genuine interest in cybersecurity. The determination to read manuals and find out how a particular software or hardware works is necessary. We first need to understand how systems work before we can effectively break them. Knowing the ins and outs of IT systems enables us to think like the bad guys and anticipate their moves. It’s like being a detective who understands the criminal mind to catch the culprits.
As a consulting security architect, currently working full-time for a client, my primary responsibilities include:
- Conducting security reviews to identify gaps in the architecture and assisting in the development of comprehensive risk management plans.
- Assess how the implementation of new systems or interfaces affects our current security posture.
- Evaluate and refine security architectures and designs.
- Determine and document the necessary security controls for information systems and networks.
While the nature of my work is undoubtedly thrilling, it’s not the only reason I’ve stayed for so long at tSF. The company’s culture and environment have played a significant role in my job satisfaction.
First and foremost, the team spirit at tSF is important for every person and function in the company. Monthly activities, whether it’s a team-building event or just a casual get-together, keeps up the communication between all colleagues, which is not self-evident with a team of consultants that is performing projects for various clients.
Secondly, professionalism is a cornerstone of tSF. Our clients rely on us to safeguard their applications and infrastructure, and we take that responsibility seriously. TSF’s commitment to excellence and staying at the forefront of cybersecurity trends ensures that we deliver top-notch services that our clients can trust.
Last but not least, it’s the genuine interest of everyone at tSF in the topic of cybersecurity that sets it apart. We don’t just do this job; we also like it! The passion and curiosity that my colleagues share make every day an opportunity for learning and growth.
In conclusion, being a security consultant at tSF has been and still is a fun occupation for me. From performing penetration tests to understanding the intricacies of IT systems, this job has given me the chance to explore the exciting world of cybersecurity. But what truly makes it special is the fantastic team spirit, professionalism, and shared passion for cybersecurity that permeates every aspect of life at tSF. I look forward to many more years!
