Aim Hire: Speaking in Code

When the battle is in cyberspace, the frontline is never farther than your fingertips. During Aim Hire: “Speaking in Code,” we take you behind the lines of code for an unclassified glimpse into the fast-paced and secretive world of Air Force cyber operations and the important role civilians play in keeping the nation cyber secure and adversaries at bay.

Hosted by Sheryl Johnson, this informative episode features in-depth conversations with Mike Hayward, Cyber Threat Emulation Lead, and Cesar Azaga, Technical Advisor and Senior Civilian for the 834th Cyber Operations Squadron. Both guests share their inspiring journeys into cybersecurity and discuss the ever-evolving threats they counter to protect national security.

The two civilian cyberwarriors emphasize how civilian cyber experts are on the front lines of protecting sensitive information and mission-critical systems. Whether it’s replicating adversary tactics to harden Air Force networks or advising teams on best practices, both Mike and Cesar explain how their roles are essential in keeping America safe.

The episode provides a terabyte-sized glimpse into how these cyber warriors emulate advanced persistent threats (APT) and collaborate with military teams to neutralize vulnerabilities.

The discussion dives much deeper than simply offering technical jargon — it reveals the human side of cybersecurity, with both guests reflecting on their career paths, the importance of mentorship, and the fulfillment they find in supporting the Air Force mission.

Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a cybersecurity professional, or someone interested in how civilians contribute to national defense, this episode highlights the unique and impactful roles available in Air Force Civilian Service (AFCS), where careers are about more than just protecting systems — they’re about defending people and nations.

This is another of those episodes you shouldn’t miss. But if you’re one of those who likes to jump right to the last chapter of an epic novel first, you can cut to the chase below:

2:12 ~ Sheryl asks the two guests to introduce themselves and share their journeys to becoming civilian employees of the Air Force.

4:51 ~ Sheryl introduces the first of two polls shared during the episode.

6:17 ~ Sheryl asks Mike and Cesar to detail their journeys to becoming AFCS cyber professionals.

12:02 ~ Sheryl has Mike walk us through what a day-in-the-life of a cyber threat emulation lead looks like.

14:10 ~ Sheryl asks Cesar to explain his current responsibilities, both technical and advisory, and how he prepares his team to handle today’s cyber challenges.

16:35 ~ Mike and Cesar are asked what they find most rewarding about their positions, and how they stay motivated in such a quickly evolving field.

20:50 ~ Sheryl polls the audience on what excites them the most about a career in cybersecurity.

22:29 ~ Sheryl asks Mike to share the traits and characteristics he looks for in AFCS cybersecurity professionals.

25:09 ~ An audience member asks the guests which certifications they should pursue for a successful AFCS cyber career.

27:05 ~ Someone from the audience asks how they can get cyber work experience to meet the minimum qualifications if they’re currently not in a cyber role.

29:14 ~ Cesar is asked what he believes makes a good AFCS cyber candidate.

30:22 ~ Mike and Cesar are asked how they keep current in a field where the threats are always evolving.

34:48 ~ An audience member asks which AFCS positions are best for getting started in cyber.

36:46 ~ Someone asks how an AFCS job compares to one in the private sector.

42:30 ~ Sheryl asks Mike and Cesar how often they interact with active-duty personnel in their roles.

44:57 ~ A member of the audience asks the panelists, “How demanding is your work? And do you have time to travel, spend time with family?”

46:54 ~ The guests are asked, “If they could give their younger selves a pep talk, what advice would they give?”

49:17 ~ An audience member asks Mike and Cesar to describe their overall job satisfaction.

53:44 ~ Sheryl ends the program by asking Mike and Cesar to describe that moment in their careers where they knew they were making a difference.

AFCS extends our special thanks to Cesar Azaga and Mike Hayward for the generous donation of their time, expertise, and wisdom. Meanwhile, for similar content and to stay abreast of every new development, job opportunity, and Aim Hire episode, be sure to stay in the loop by subscribing to our email updates at afciviliancareers.com/Subscribe.