Written by Annie Wilkinson, CyberNorth Ambassador for Northumbria University
The current technological landscape has evolved terrifyingly fast. From the rise of AI leading to an abundance of vibe-coded creations ranging from malware and zero day exploits [1] or good-faith software with insufficient security measures [2] to the increase in identity theft [3] helped by multiple Data leaks containing thousands of UK Netizen’s IDs [4].
Yet the positive growth and developments are often under-reported and glossed over in favour of the more scandalous stories. Day after day, online communities work together improving the lives of strangers they’ll likely never meet.
- Rigorously-managed open-source projects that provide free alternatives to platforms that would otherwise be inaccessible [5].
- Consistently maintained and updated accredited free courses/resources covering a range of necessary tech/cyber skillsets [6].
- Revolutionising web development to improve rendering times and allow for more dynamic and expressive websites – inspiring new people to start learning new skills [7].
As a cyber student, witnessing this balance between the exciting and the terrifying sides of technological innovation has been fascinating.
AI and the Student Experience
My introduction to generative AI came during my first university lecture, when the technology was still in its infancy. Over each academic year, Universities evolved their approach to AI. In year one, AI was banned completely. By year 2, it was permitted as a tool. By year three, students were given Claude accounts and encouraged to attend AI-focused student clubs and events.
This shift mirrored the changes in the broader landscape, where industries have been forced to adapt to the new AI world. AI is now deeply interconnected with cyber, and the AI revolution can’t be ignored. Despite this, it’s hard to know how to approach it.
Staying connected within the wider community has been integral to staying ahead. Navigating such rapid change early in my academic career as a cyber security student is daunting, but having a strong network of peers facing the same challenges makes the future feel manageable, exciting, and full of opportunity.
As a CyberNorth Ambassador, I get to experience this community from every angle. I help out behind the scenes at events, learning directly alongside industry professionals, and chatting with experts every day. Their knowledge and their willingness to share changed the way I saw the future.
The AI revolution is here, but that doesn’t have to be scary! The network that CyberNorth provided showed me that, and in return, I’m helping to pass that excitement on to the next generation through CyberNorth’s cyber and AI workshops for young people.
The Future
The perfect cyber future would be built on human ingenuity and community. AI would be a tool or a teacher: but definitely not the core. Companies would invest in young cyber talent to foster a genuine curiosity within them, and encourage them to provide meaningful oversight to the tasks automated by AI.
Where we stand currently, with so many opportunities in front of us, I can’t help but feel confident about what’s coming next.
Stricter AI safety laws are on the horizon. Companies understand the value of human oversight. There are apprenticeships for those who didn’t attend University, apprenticeships for those who did, and even apprenticeships for those who are currently enrolled. Technological advancement and investment in people are going hand-in-hand.
Cyber communities are more connected than ever, thanks to organisations like CyberNorth. Students, hobbyists, and professionals are coming together to share their insights so we can embrace the new era of cyber together.
The perfect cyber future is almost here, and I couldn’t be more excited.
About the Author: Annie Wilkinson, CyberNorth Student Ambassador
Annie is a Student Ambassador at CyberNorth, representing Northumbria University.
She is currently in her final year, studying Networks and Cyber Security, and has ambitions of becoming a Malware Analyst.
Fun fact: Annie likes learning about Prehistoric fish!
Click here to connect with her on LinkedIn.
