Digital Learning

Building A Hacker Mindset – The Story Of A Cyber Security Talent Hunt In Estonia

At the Bett International TeachMeet, Birgy Lorenz described Estonia's competitions and training camps to develop the hackers of tomorrow, keeping the internet safe.

Bett European TeachMeet 2023

Estonia leads Europe in developing ethical hackers

In Estonia, a significant proportion of boys (60%) aspire to pursue a career in the IT industry at the end of their basic schooling, compared to only 30% of girls. This is because boys have shown a greater interest in exploring the field, while girls tend to be more hesitant.

Of the participants in IT competitions, around 17% are deemed to have exceptional talents, to possess the ability to think outside the box, with an additional 25% having the potential to develop such skills.

When it comes to cybersecurity, talent can emerge from those who excel academically, as well as those who struggle in traditional education settings. However, talented individuals may not always seek attention, and often lack social skills. They may also exhibit a sense of superiority due to their technical prowess. Nevertheless, they are dedicated to improving their skills and social abilities, and often flourish when they encounter like-minded individuals.

Some gifted individuals are multitalented and excel in fields such as music, sports, and natural sciences. They often question laws and agreements to identify their flaws and improve regulations. Nonetheless, they require guidance from ethical advisors and older role models to understand the norms of society and how to use their skills for the greater good.

What makes a good hacker?

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