Ever wondered what really goes on inside a Security Operations Center (SOC)? In this episode, host, Claire Quirion chats with Derek Halfyard from GoSecure about his journey from NSCC to leading threat hunts and helping clients stay safe around the clock. We break down what a SOC is, who works there, what roles like threat hunters and detection engineers actually do, and what it’s really like to build a career in cybersecurity.

Derek also opens up about the biggest challenges SOC professionals face, the stress of wondering if a threat has been missed, and the unmatched satisfaction of detecting a previously unknown threat. Whether you're curious about breaking into cyber security or want to understand the realities of life inside a SOC, this episode offers deep insights and career advice. From certifications to career pivots, this is real talk for anyone curious about joining the industry.