As a Security Researcher at Censys, I’ve learned that staying current in this industry isn’t about knowing everything—it’s about asking the right questions, understanding which data matters to different audiences, and embracing learning on the fly as both a necessity and a skill.
Censys’s commitment to professional growth has been instrumental in shaping this perspective. Each year, the company provides $2,000 for employees to invest in their development through certifications, courses, exams, conferences, books, and subscriptions. This investment not only strengthens our work but also empowers us to take ownership of our careers. For me, this support has been transformative, giving me the freedom to direct my learning in ways that align with my interests and professional goals.
In 2024, I pushed myself as a researcher by exploring niche areas like medical device security and industrial control systems (ICS). I discovered that hands-on learning—diving into practical exercises and experimenting daily—works best for me. Through Censys’s professional development budget, I subscribed to platforms like Codecademy and TryHackMe, using bite-sized exercises to refine my foundational skills while picking up new statistical analysis techniques in the background of larger projects. Having the support to experiment and learn in real-time has been invaluable.
I also quickly realized that technical expertise alone isn’t enough—context matters. Understanding the bigger picture, whether it’s geopolitical history, relevant policy issues, or new problem-solving frameworks, adds depth to my work. As an avid reader, I’ve loved that Censys’s professional development support includes books. I’ve built a small library ranging from cyberwarfare journalism to IoT hacking manuals and technical references. This mix of resources helps me connect technical details to broader industry trends while staying engaged with the ideas that first drew me to this field.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that real growth—especially outside formal education—can be messy and uncomfortable. Some days, progress feels slow and frustrating, but I’ve come to see that discomfort as a sign of learning. Whether tackling a new domain or working through a challenging course, persistence is key. Over time, those frustrating moments turn into confidence in your ability to take on difficult challenges.
Looking ahead to 2025, I plan to continue using Censys’s professional development resources to grow as a researcher and tackle even more complex questions. If you’re interested in joining a team that values continuous learning and professional growth, Censys would love to hear from you—check out our career opportunities here. With Censys’s support, I’m excited to push further into new domains and deepen our understanding of the security landscape.