Noble Antwi, a dedicated student at Illinois Tech, is making significant strides toward a successful career in cybersecurity, thanks to the diverse internship and networking opportunities available at the university's Chicago campus.
Enrolled in the Master of Cyber Forensics and Security program, Noble has found the perfect balance between rigorous academic coursework, practical internships, and industry-recognized certifications. This combination has equipped him with both technical expertise and professional credibility that are essential for excelling in the fast-paced world of cybersecurity.
“I’ve been fortunate to engage in numerous professional development opportunities,” says Noble, who currently serves as an intern at the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office in Illinois. Here, he plays a crucial role in analyzing financial data, aiding the legal team in their efforts to build stronger cases. This internship has provided him with invaluable experience in applying his technical skills to the real-world field of law.
“What makes this particularly meaningful is seeing how our technical skills directly support the pursuit of justice,” he reflects. “Our data analysis saves attorneys significant time and helps them present stronger evidence. It has become clear to me that cybersecurity and digital forensics are not just for IT departments; they are essential tools for law enforcement and legal proceedings, helping to safeguard communities.”
Noble’s journey has also led him to a summer internship at Wintrust Financial, where he worked as an IT risk analyst. There, he gained hands-on experience in securing financial services, learning how cybersecurity principles are applied across a variety of sectors. He also worked as an IT support specialist with Illinois Tech's Office of Technology Support, assisting students, faculty, and staff, which further honed his troubleshooting and customer service skills.
“The internships at Wintrust and the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office helped me see how cybersecurity transcends industries—whether it’s financial services, law enforcement, or government. It’s not just about technology; it’s about protecting vital organizations and missions, and enabling justice to prevail,” says Noble, emphasizing the broader significance of his field.
Thanks to a grant from the Motorola Solutions Foundation, Noble earned his Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) certification from ISC2, and he has since gone on to pursue several other certifications, including CompTIA Security+, AWS Security Specialty, AWS SysOps Administrator, and the Microsoft SC-300 certification for Identity and Access Management. He also tackled the Okta Certified Professional exam.
“Without the Motorola Solutions Foundation and ISSA scholarships, I wouldn’t have been able to afford the costs of the CCSP, Okta, and CISSP certifications while managing my tuition,” he shares. “These certifications are not only costly but essential. They show employers that you have the expertise needed to handle specialized roles in cybersecurity.”
The opportunity to study in Chicago has been a game-changer for Noble. The city's vibrant cybersecurity ecosystem, coupled with its status as a major business hub, has provided him with countless networking and career opportunities. The concentration of Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, and innovative startups makes Chicago an ideal place for aspiring cybersecurity professionals to thrive.
“The cultural diversity of Chicago has been an enriching experience for me as an international student from Ghana,” Noble says. “The city’s global perspective and welcoming nature have made me feel at home while also helping me build a professional network that spans various industries and backgrounds.”
With his technical skills, certifications, and hands-on experience, Noble Antwi is poised to make a lasting impact in the world of cybersecurity, and his journey at Illinois Tech has been pivotal in laying the foundation for his success.