Matthew Hewson
Sydney,NSW
Summary
Cyber security graduate with hands-on experience from achieving a Deloitte Cyber Academy cadetship in partnership with Palo Alto Networks. Skilled in network and cloud security, with strong problem-solving, leadership, and teamwork abilities. Passionate about digital safety and eager to contribute to the modern cyber-threat landscape.
Possessing analytical mindset and proactive approach to problem-solving. Familiar with regulatory compliance and cybersecurity fundamentals, with skills in identity management and risk assessment. Committed to enhancing security protocols and ensuring system integrity.
Offering solid foundation in cybersecurity principles and keen interest in threat detection and mitigation. Brings background in computer science and experience with programming languages and network protocols. Ready to use and develop analytical and technical skills in Cybersecurity roles.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Professional Services Associate
Palo Alto Networks
01.2023 - 01.2025
- Worked as part of a 3-year cadetship program alongside a Bachelor of Computer Science. Gained practical experience and industry training in cyber security consulting.
- Participating in a 3-year cadetship program aligned with university studies.
- Trained in cyber security fundamentals, including cloud, network, and security operations.
- Assisting clients with the configuration, deployment, and optimization of Palo Alto Networks' security solutions.
- Gaining hands-on exposure to threat prevention technologies and real-world incident response.
Bar Attendant
The Prince Kirrawee
01.2023 - 01.2025
- Served guests in a busy bar and bistro setting, ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction while maintaining compliance with RSA and hygiene standards.
- Provided exceptional customer service in a fast-paced hospitality environment.
- Handled cash and EFTPOS transactions, maintained bar cleanliness and stock levels.
- Adhered to RSA and RCG legislation.
- Developed interpersonal, multitasking, and stress management skills.
Storm & Recon Operator
SES Cronulla Unit
01.2020 - Current
- Company Overview: Active volunteer with the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) Cronulla Unit.
- Demonstrates strong teamwork, reliability, and the ability to remain calm and effective under pressure of emergency events.
- Participated in storm and flood response operations.
- Operated communication equipment and supported coordination during emergency events.
- Completed accredited SES training in rescue operations, field skills, and incident response protocols, fire training, chainsaw operations, etc.
- Active volunteer with the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) Cronulla Unit.
Crew Trainer
McDonalds
01.2018 - 01.2024
- Led teams and trained new employees in a fast-paced food service environment whilst maintaining quality standards.
- Trained and mentored new staff members on operational procedures and safety standards.
- Supervised teams during peak hours to maintain service quality and efficiency.
Education
Bachelor of Computer Science - Cyber Academy
University of Wollongong
Sydney, NSW12.2025
Diploma of IT - Cyber Security
TAFE NSW
Sydney, NSW12.2024
HSC -
Woolooware High School
Sydney, NSW12.2022
Skills
- Interpersonal Skills
- Analytical Thinking
- Research
- Teamwork
- Initiative
- Reliable Work Ethic
- Leadership
- Attention to detail
- Problem-solving
- Troubleshooting
- Teamwork and collaboration
Hobbies and Interests
- Home Lab, Built my first PC in 2019 at age 15 and have been continually upgrading and expanding it into a full home lab. Reworked the home network infrastructure and integrated a Palo Alto Networks firewall for hands-on security experience. Set up a home NAS and currently host various self-managed services including Plex, a Minecraft server, Home Assistant, network-wide ad blocker, and a log collector & SIEM and analysis tools.
- Video Games, In my free time I like to play video games for some fun as I enjoy the strategic thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills that are involved. The competitive, cooperative and adventurous nature of gaming as well as the technical backend processes is also very interesting.
- SES, I started SES for my Duke of Edinburgh award but after I completed the award, I found I enjoyed volunteering with the SES and the Teamwork, Leadership and logical and tactical thinking that is required, so I continued volunteering.
Security Skills
- Python
- JavaScript
- HTML
- CSS
- Network Security
- Penetration Testing
- System Hardening
- System Administration
- Incident Response
- Threat Detection
- VM management
- Firewall Configuration
Timeline
Professional Services Associate
Palo Alto Networks
01.2023 - 01.2025
Bar Attendant
The Prince Kirrawee
01.2023 - 01.2025
Storm & Recon Operator
SES Cronulla Unit
01.2020 - Current
Crew Trainer
McDonalds
01.2018 - 01.2024
Bachelor of Computer Science - Cyber Academy
University of Wollongong
Diploma of IT - Cyber Security
TAFE NSW
HSC -
Woolooware High School
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