Eyimofe Oma-Wilkie - IT Graduate

Tell us a bit about yourself! What programme did you join at SSE and where are you based?

My name is Eyimofe Oma-Wilkie, a graduate at SSE Plc. I’m the third child from a family of 5 and in some alternate dimension, I’d like to think that I’m a successful musician. I joined the Corporate IT Graduate Programme at SSE in September 2023, and I am currently based in Reading.

What did you study at university?

For my first degree, I studied Electrical and Electronics Engineering at Covenant University, and for my Masters, I studied computer Forensics & Cyber security  at the University of Greenwich. I finished my Masters programme at the University of Greenwich in September 2023.

Which sectors did you consider applying to when you were looking at graduate roles?

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been interested in computing and IT, and in an earlier role, I worked in financial services and saw first-hand how anyone could become victims of cyber fraud. This spurred my interest in cyber security and led me to learn more on the subject. I also worked in a role that sought to provide credit to renewable energy customers and projects in Nigeria.

I considered applying to IT roles, primarily focused on cybersecurity, with employers who have a direct positive impact on society. I applied to SSE, because of its strides in energy transition to renewable energy and because it provided an opportunity to work in an inclusive and diverse workplace.

How did you find the recruitment process?  Do you have any advice for students considering applying for the SSE Graduate Programmes/Summer Placements?

Job recruitment processes can be quite arduous and demanding; they test your determination and resilience, and SSE’s was no different. I found it to be quite challenging and very interesting, as I got to learn more about the business and its operations.  It started with an online form as most applications do and progressed to an aptitude test, followed by a video interview(response) stage, and finally an assessment day, which tested our culture fit and non-technical skills.

My advice to prospective applicants is to gain an understanding of SSE's business operations and core values, and to consider how your interests, skills, and career path align with these factors. Furthermore, don’t feel intimidated by the process, or the size of the business, as everyone here started where you are, with no work experience as well.

Tell us a bit about your current role, what you’ve learnt and what you’ve enjoyed most?

My current (second) placement is within the OT Security Operations Team of SSE Renewables. I work as a security operations analyst tasked with monitoring our assets for suspicious activity and assisting the team in making sure our OT operations align with industry standards and the regulators’ policies. As someone more familiar with conventional IT security, this role has enabled me to better understand the security requirements of Operational Technology & Industrial Control Systems. It has also given me an opportunity to work with various stakeholders across SSE Renewables.

Are you working towards any professional qualifications?

I’m currently working towards attaining 2 certifications, which are 

• CompTIA CySA+
• AWS Solutions Architect Associate

Since joining SSE, I have gotten a Pluralsight licence, which gives me access to online labs, lessons and exam prep material from experienced tutors and professionals. I am also aware that as an SSE employee I can request for support for external training courses, including training and exam fees.