Linton Harris
Security Operations Manager
Veritext Legal Solutions
Linton Harris’s path to becoming a cybersecurity professional is a story of determination, passion, and the pursuit of excellence. His journey from considering a career in the culinary arts to a managerial position at a prestigious consulting firm is an inspiring success story that underscores the instrumental role of EC-Council University in shaping his career.
Linton’s story begins during his final year of high school, as he considered a career in the culinary arts. One of his classmates suggested that Linton gain real-world experience in a restaurant before committing to culinary school. This guidance led him to reconsider his options entirely.
Linton took a brief break from formal education, exploring various options, including cashier and grocery store positions. He soon realized that these jobs would not be enough to support a family, so he returned to school. He earned his associate’s degree and began studying information technology.
Professional Growth in IT
After Linton worked in various IT positions, his hard work and dedication earned him a position at AOL. His four years there gave him valuable experience and insights. From there, he advanced through various roles, including junior systems administrator, systems administrator, desktop support, and network administrator. His IT career foundation was firmly established.
How Transfer of Credit Played a Crucial Role in Linton’s Professional Journey
A crucial decision in Linton’s educational journey loomed as he contemplated pursuing his master’s degree. Like many students, he encountered the complex landscape of higher education, with its public and private institutions, each with distinct policies and standards. His prior academic achievements, including certifications, held significant value. However, the challenge lay in finding a program that recognized and leveraged these accomplishments, thus streamlining his path to a master’s degree.
In this quest, Linton explored multiple options, including his local institution, which unfortunately posed a significant hurdle. They were unwilling to recognize a substantial portion of his existing credits, rendering his academic journey unnecessarily arduous. Furthermore, other master’s programs were financially prohibitive, and Linton was self-funding his education without the support of his employer.
Linton’s turning point came when he discovered EC-Council University. It presented an educational haven that acknowledged his certifications and valued them as assets to be leveraged. What set EC-Council University apart was its willingness to apply these credits strategically, effectively exempting Linton from certain classes. This tailored approach simplified the academic process and allowed him to complete his master’s degree within 18 months, with a few possible extensions.
Linton wisely adopted a steady and manageable pace, undertaking one course at a time and occasionally doubling up during lighter periods, such as the summer. EC-Council University’s robust online platform further facilitated his educational journey, especially during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. It allowed Linton to take exams from the comfort of his own home, eliminating the need for physical presence at a testing center.
Education is like a bridge with sturdy pillars to support my professional growth. Among these pillars, EC-Council University stands as one of my most reliable and robust supporters.
— Linton Harris
All these factors created a compelling case for Linton to choose EC-Council University for his master’s degree. Linton’s decision to join EC-Council University was not just a matter of convenience: it was the result of diligent research and a profound sense of belonging. The vibrant student community and the enduring camaraderie among his fellow graduates added to the appeal of EC-Council University. This supportive network thrives even after graduation, underscoring the sense of unity and mutual aid that lured Linton to EC-Council University for his master’s degree.
I tried enrolling at my local school, but they wanted to cut half of my credits. Another master’s program I considered was too expensive, and I had to pay for it myself because my employer wouldn’t cover the cost. Fortunately, when I found the EC-Council University, they made things easy. They accepted all my credits and even gave me credit for my certifications.
— Linton Harris
With eight years in the field of cybersecurity and a total of 18 years in IT, Linton’s journey was far from over. His ultimate goal was to become a Certified Chief Information Security Officer (C|CISO). To achieve this, he set his sights on EC-Council University and pursued a master’s degree and C|CISO certification. This decision was the catalyst for the remarkable transformation of his career.
My goal is to be a C|CISO. This goal made me attend EC-Council University and get my master’s degree with a C|CISO certification.
— Linton Harris
In a recent interview with EC-Council University, he revealed the profound impact of his decision to pursue a master’s degree in cybersecurity. The Master of Science in Cyber Security degree program was more than an academic endeavor: it was a strategic decision that elevated his career to new heights. Linton acknowledges that obtaining a Master of Science in Cyber Security degree was instrumental in his promotion to a managerial role, a goal he had long aspired to achieve. It opened doors previously closed and laid the foundation for his future leadership roles.
Obtaining my master’s degree was pivotal in my journey to becoming a manager. Before achieving this milestone, I had encountered repeated obstacles while attempting to transition into a managerial role. However, once I had earned my master’s degree and obtained relevant certifications, these accomplishments served as the key that unlocked the door to opportunities in leadership for me.
— Linton Harris
This educational journey didn’t just benefit Linton; it also allowed him to give back to the community. His academic achievements and extensive cybersecurity knowledge have made him a sought-after mentor in the industry and a valuable resource for aspiring professionals. He also plans to engage in speaking engagements and teach cybersecurity as an adjunct professor, contributing to the field’s growth. Linton’s story inspires others to pursue their dreams and achieve their goals.
Linton’s journey revealed his remarkable journey as a generalist in the cybersecurity field. He possesses in-depth knowledge across various domains, allowing him to understand and communicate effectively with his peers and leadership. As a generalist, he emphasizes the importance of understanding multiple aspects of the industry, which benefits his role as a leader.
I consider myself a generalist. So, I’m pretty good at a lot of things.
— Linton Harris
Linton’s success story is a testament to the transformative power of education and EC-Council University’s role in shaping his career. His journey from culinary aspirations to a prominent position in cybersecurity exemplifies the endless possibilities that dedication, hard work, and the right educational choice can bring. Linton’s experience is not just a success story; it inspires anyone aspiring to excel in cybersecurity.
