I first became interested in computers at the age of 10. Shortly after, I started making basic websites in HTML and Javascript. I realised I wanted a career in computing when I was studying software design and multimedia for my Higher School Certificate, but I wasn’t sure what was available or what suited my skill set. After speaking with my careers advisor, I applied for early entry into the computer science program at the University of Wollongong.
I started my own web development company while I was studying CS and then moved into law to expand my career options. I worked as a litigation lawyer at the Australian Federal Police and was inspired to incorporate more of my tech background into my career after working with the AFP’s cybercrime team. Now, I work as Manager of Forensic Technology at KPMG.
When people ask what I do, I tell them to watch the TV series’ CSI: Cyber and NCIS! I have a locked-down computer lab in my office full of computers, parts, and servers. One day I could be pulling together information to form a timeline of unauthorised user activity, and the next I could be recovering deleted files. Our clients are often large companies with complicated computer systems, and a big part of our job is to locate vulnerabilities and information.
I never thought that I would end up using my CS skills in digital forensics. When I first looked into computing, I thought my options were limited to programming, IT support, or maintenance. But after seeing my friends work in areas like game development, entrepreneurship and project management, I realised that programming and basic IT skills can be used in almost any career. CS is a universal language that can take you across the globe!
Shaun’s path to Forensic Technology
>> Bachelor of Computer Science (Software Development), University of Wollongong
>> Bachelor of Laws, University of Wollongong
>> Litigation Lawyer, Australian Federal Police
>> Senior Consultant – Forensic Technology, KPMG
>> Manager – Forensic Technology, KPMG
“When people ask what I do, I tell them to watch the TV series’ CSI: Cyber and NCIS!”
