James Carmichael-Evans’
Cyber Security Journey

What led you to apply for the Civil Service Fast Stream programme?

My career path has been quite diverse. I’ve transitioned from a background in Nuclear Medicine to a focus on cyber security.

I have always had an interest in technology but thought cyber security was solely the realm of hackers. However, the Civil Service Fast Stream programme opened my eyes to the broader scope of the field.

How does your background link to the Civil Service and cyber security?

I initially wondered this myself when I joined the Fast Stream. However, the more I experience life on the Fast Stream, the more I realise how well my background has prepared me.

The critical thinking skills I developed, my ability to work with data and evidence, and my experience managing risk, people, and uncertainty have all been incredibly valuable. These skills are directly applicable to my work in the Civil Service and cyber security, enabling me to navigate complex challenges and drive positive change.

What impact have the projects you have worked on had in making a difference for others and helping deliver better services for the people of the UK?

Many people’s interactions with the UK government are now primarily digital, whether it’s obtaining passports, handling
land sales, recording births and deaths, managing taxes, or dealing with transport. While this digital transformation offers convenience and efficiency, it also creates a significant footprint that attackers might try to exploit. The projects I’ve been involved in have directly improved the cyber posture of the UK government, helping to secure essential services and protect citizen data.

My contributions have not only made a tangible difference in cyber security but have also allowed me to develop my leadership and technical skills significantly.

How do you feel that having a STEM degree is beneficial to working in the Civil Service?

Having a background in Biomedical Sciences has significantly benefited me in my Fast Stream journey. The critical thinking, data interpretation, and analysis skills I developed through my education have been invaluable. These skills enable me to tackle challenges in cyber security, where dealing with large amounts of data and uncertainty is common.

What locations and departments have you been posted to during the Civil Service Fast Stream so far?

During my time in the Civil Service Fast Stream, I have been posted in Leeds with the Department of Work and Pensions and Nottingham with the Department of Education. It was eye-opening to discover that many roles in government digital and cyber sectors are located outside London, with significant hubs across the South West, Midlands, and North East regions.

How have the skills and knowledge you have acquired through the Fast Stream training helped you in shaping your future?

Throughout my Fast Stream journey, I have had the opportunity to write policy and briefing materials for ministers, model threats to critical systems using data analysis, write code for security applications, and lead security projects hands-on. Additionally, I have engaged with senior leadership across both of my postings, gaining exposure and contributing to decision-making processes at a strategic level.