How a Tech Enthusiast Gained Specialized Cybersecurity Skills

While most bootcamp students start their program as tech beginners, some enroll with relevant experience in the field. That’s because tech bootcamps are a great way to upskill or specialize in an in-demand tech subject area—regardless of your professional background or level.

Tech enthusiast Frankie Bruno is an example of a tech professional enrolling in bootcamp to expand their skill set:

“Before bootcamp, a friend and I started our own SaaS application called HoaFlo, where we help HOA firms keep track of their residents and communities through our management service.”

Proficient in SaaS product development, Frankie sought to gain understanding and hands-on experience in cybersecurity. The depth and rigor of the Fullstack Academy Cybersecurity Bootcamp curriculum proved challenging yet rewarding—even with a prior tech background.

“The most challenging part of bootcamp has been keeping up with the fast pace while making sure everything I’m learning really sticks. You’re covering a lot of ground in a short amount of time, so it takes focus and consistency to keep up,” recalls Frankie.

Far from being deterred by the bootcamp’s rigor, though, Frankie found the pace energizing:

“Honestly, my bootcamp experience has been nothing short of amazing. The pace is fast, but it’s the kind of fast that pushes you in the right way, you’re constantly learning, applying what you learn, and building real skills that stick.”

Those skills include gaining experience in industry-standard tools and technology. Starting with cybersecurity fundamentals like operating system functions and network essentials, the Fullstack Academy Cybersecurity Bootcamp curriculum quickly moves into more advanced subjects.

Critically, these topics are reinforced with hands-on practice using top tools. Frankie states:

“Some of the most helpful skills I’ve learned have been in both offensive and defensive cybersecurity methods. We’ve covered the fundamentals of navigating Linux and Windows, built a solid foundation in cybersecurity theory and vocabulary, and learned how to actually apply that knowledge using tools in Kali Linux. Being able to not only understand these concepts but also put them into practice has been huge for me.”

Crediting fellow bootcamp students with learning hands-on skills in a short time frame, Frankie offers advice for prospective students as well:

“My advice would be to go into it ready to work hard and stay consistent. Bootcamp moves fast, but that’s a good thing—it forces you to grow and apply what you’re learning right away. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, lean on your instructors, and work with your classmates. The people you meet here can become not just friends, but future teammates or collaborators.”

Hear from more tech bootcamp graduates like Frankie on our reviews page.