Joshua McDougall

I am part of one of the fastest growing areas of information technology: systems security. As a member of the first graduating class of the Bachelor of Applied Information Sciences (Information Systems Security) program, I was offered a full-time job straight from school.

I work in the Forensic Technology/e Discovery Services Group at KPMG Canada in Toronto. We assist clients with the management of electronically stored information. Business is booming, as eDiscovery (or electronic evidence) has become a key component of many legal trials as well as identity and corporate theft.

Information systems security is a great field because it’s constantly evolving. We can apply our skills to many areas outside of forensics, including network and server administration, risk management and programming. But the field also goes beyond the technical to include a strong business component and a focus on communication and public speaking.

Although the field is relatively new here in Canada, its importance is increasing. The information systems security industry is a high-demand area now because businesses can’t afford to ignore it. Companies need to protect their growing databases of personal and business information. Graduates of Sheridan’s program are particularly sought after. The program’s blend of technical skills and organizational security make it the only one of its kind in Ontario.