The Australian Federal Police (AFP) has unveiled a pioneering cyber traineeship program aimed at attracting neurodivergent talent into the cybersecurity industry, with the potential to foster future careers in law enforcement.
Partnering with Untapped Talent, the AFP’s Genius Armory Program will provide hands-on experience and mentorship to four neurodivergent individuals over a six-month period. From a pool of 16 highly capable applicants, four were selected to join the program, including two who relocated from interstate to Canberra for this unique opportunity.
Participants, aged between 19 and 41, have diverse educational backgrounds ranging from high school graduates to those pursuing tertiary education. Having begun their pre-training in June 2024, they are now set to commence their work experience on 2 September 2024, embedded within the AFP’s Cyber Security and Risk Branch.
The Genius Armory trainees will gain vital exposure to the AFP’s cybersecurity efforts, including monitoring critical systems, responding to incidents, conducting threat intelligence, and assessing risks for both new and existing systems.
Mentorship is a cornerstone of the program. The trainees have been supported by members of the AFP’s Dandelion Program Team, a recruitment initiative tailored to neurodivergent individuals. Marcus Gellel, a Dandelion Program mentor, expressed gratitude for the chance to guide others through the same process he once experienced.
“It’s rewarding to help others navigate this journey, knowing that having a mentor can make the experience much smoother,” Gellel said.
Maggie O’Connell, another Dandelion Program mentor, reflected on the importance of support when she first started at the AFP. “Having someone guide me made a huge impact on my life. I’m honoured to now be able to offer that same support to others,” she shared.
Fellow mentor Ryan Gasnier echoed the sentiment, highlighting the significance of helping trainees acclimate to their new teams. “They are eager to begin formal training, and as their mentor, I’ll ensure they understand the AFP culture, giving them the confidence to thrive in the workforce,” Gasnier said.
AFP Chief Information Security Officer Jamie King emphasised the organisation’s commitment to diversifying its cyber talent pool and nurturing future cybersecurity professionals.
“The Genius Armory program provides neurodivergent individuals with the support and resources they need to explore careers with the AFP,” King said. “Many in the neurodivergent community have an excellent memory, attention to detail, and a natural curiosity – all attributes that are highly valued in the cybersecurity industry.”
King added that the AFP aims to help trainees enhance their cyber skills and knowledge, setting them up for future success in the field.
The Genius Armoury Training Platform is a collaborative project led by Untapped Talent, with support from AustCyber and the Department of Industry. The program is funded through the Australian Government’s Cyber Security Skills Partnership Innovation Fund, underscoring a national effort to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in cybersecurity.
This initiative offers a unique pathway for neurodivergent individuals to develop their technical expertise and consider long-term careers in both cybersecurity and law enforcement.
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