Intern Insider: An Inside Look at RELI’s Cybersecurity Internship Program
In this edition of the Intern Insider, we spoke with Brian McElyea, Vice President of the Cybersecurity Center of Excellence in the Innovation Division, to learn how RELI Group’s cybersecurity internship program has been reshaped to develop talent, support our mission and create career opportunities for aspiring professionals. Continue reading to discover how our program is making an impact in the cybersecurity industry!
The Vision Behind the Cybersecurity Internship Program
Can you share what initially inspired the creation of the cybersecurity internship program at RELI Group?
When I arrived at RELI in April 2024, we already had a cybersecurity internship program; however, I saw an opportunity to enhance its structure and impact. I wanted to “reshape” our cyber internship program to address both an industry need and an internal vision. Recognizing the persistent cybersecurity talent shortage, we saw a genuine opportunity to mentor and develop the next wave of cybersecurity professionals. Our cyber leadership team wanted to bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world practice by offering hands-on experience. This program not only benefits aspiring students but also enriches RELI Group’s talent pipeline, positioning us to continue leading in cybersecurity services for government clients.
How does the cybersecurity internship program align with the company’s broader mission and objectives?
The RELI Cybersecurity Internship Program is strategically designed to align with RELI Group’s broader cybersecurity mission of delivering innovative, secure and scalable technology solutions while fostering the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. This program directly supports RELI’s objectives in workforce development, cybersecurity excellence and industry leadership.
Hands-On Learning and Skill Development
What types of projects or tasks can interns expect to work on during their time at RELI Group?
Our interns engage in a diverse range of hands-on assignments reflective of actual client engagements and internal initiatives. This can include supporting cybersecurity risk assessments, assisting in vulnerability scanning and penetration testing, working on incident response simulations and helping to develop security policies and procedures. We also encourage interns to collaborate cross-functionally—whether it’s coordinating with project managers, technical architects, or data analysts—so they gain broad exposure to our work and the business realities of cybersecurity.
How does the internship help students develop the technical and soft skills they need to succeed in the cybersecurity industry?
The program is designed to cultivate both technical proficiencies and the interpersonal qualities essential in a fast-paced cybersecurity environment. On the technical side, interns use cutting-edge tools, practice DevSecOps principles and develop a strong understanding of risk management frameworks. Simultaneously, they refine soft skills such as communication, teamwork and problem-solving. Interns often present findings to senior leadership or collaborate in multidisciplinary project teams, honing their ability to communicate complex ideas and operate effectively in various professional settings.
Career Growth and Networking Opportunities
How does the internship program help students build their professional network and connect with industry experts?
Our internship program goes beyond day-to-day work by incorporating structured mentorship and networking opportunities. Interns regularly interact with our seasoned cybersecurity practitioners, participate in industry events or webinars and join internal knowledge-sharing sessions. We also encourage interns to connect with our professional partners, thought leaders and other corporate affiliates so they can broaden their perspectives, gain mentorship from different fields and cultivate a meaningful professional network that extends well beyond their internship
What career advancement opportunities do interns have after completing the program?
RELI Group views our internship program as an extended interview for potential full-time positions. We do hire outstanding interns directly into entry-level cybersecurity roles, where they can continue to advance within the company. Even those who pursue opportunities elsewhere benefit from robust professional references, industry contacts and practical experience that strengthen their competitiveness in the job market.
The Future of the Cybersecurity Internship Program
How has the cybersecurity internship program evolved over the years, and where do you see it heading in the future?
As stated earlier, I did not start the cybersecurity internship program at RELI Group. I reshaped it and provided a more disciplined focus on the intern experience while at RELI Group. I would say that overall, we’ve broadened its scope to reflect shifts in technology and threat landscapes, integrating areas like cloud security, zero-trust architectures and data analytics. We’ve also strengthened our partnerships with academic institutions and industry peers, ensuring a steady pipeline of high-caliber interns. Looking ahead, we plan to expand our cohort size, deepen our research collaborations and introduce specialized tracks—enabling interns to dive more deeply into emerging domains such as AI-driven threat detection or quantum-safe cryptography.
Advice for Aspiring Cybersecurity Interns
What advice would you give to someone considering applying for a cybersecurity internship at RELI Group, especially those who are just starting out in the field?
I would suggest three key points. First, be prepared for a hands-on experience. An internship should be about gaining practical experience—this allows them to take theoretical concepts and apply them to the real world. Second, embrace continuous learning—cybersecurity evolves rapidly, and genuine curiosity is often the difference between a good intern and a great one. Finally, take the initiative and be a proactive volunteer for challenging tasks, ask thoughtful questions and show genuine enthusiasm for problem-solving. At RELI Group, we thrive on collaboration and creativity, so candidates who display both technical aptitude and a growth mindset are highly valued.
RELI Group’s Cybersecurity Interns Share Their Experience
“Joining RELI Group as a cybersecurity intern straight out of my first year in college was an exciting opportunity. This internship has allowed me to apply my knowledge in real-world scenarios. RELI Group’s commitment to growth and development stands out, as I’ve worked with passionate experts who mentor and guide me. They have provided resources and training on resume building, interview techniques and essential soft skills. This transformative experience has made me a confident and capable cybersecurity professional, ready to take on the challenges of tomorrow.” –Victor Leke, Cybersecurity Intern
“My internship has been an enriching experience, and I’m excited to share some insights from my journey so far. Since joining the team, I’ve immersed myself in various aspects of cybersecurity, including risk management, vulnerability management, software security and cybersecurity policies. I’ve been learning and contributing to the robust security infrastructure of RELI Group, actively engaging with the talented professionals in the cybersecurity department and gaining valuable insights into the industry’s best practices and the challenges faced by the organization.” –Mohamed Jalloh, Cybersecurity Intern
“The RELI internship program has great opportunities for growth and hands-on experience, allowing interns to develop valuable skills while contributing to meaningful projects. Throughout my time here, I’ve gained practical knowledge in various areas, worked alongside talented professionals and received mentorship that has helped me grow both personally and professionally. The collaborative environment and the chance to engage with multiple teams have made this experience truly rewarding, and I feel well-prepared for the next steps in my career.” – Julie Tu, Cybersecurity Intern
Join RELI’s Internship Team Today!
The cybersecurity internship program at RELI Group is more than just an entry point into the industry—it’s a launchpad for future cybersecurity leaders. By providing hands-on experience, mentorship and networking opportunities, the program ensures interns gain the skills and connections needed to succeed. As the program continues to evolve, it remains dedicated to fostering innovation, closing the talent gap and shaping the cybersecurity professionals of tomorrow. For students and graduates eager to break into the field, RELI’s internship offers a unique opportunity to learn, grow and make a real impact.
Interested in starting your professional career with RELI Group and putting your academic knowledge into action? Explore our open internship positions here and apply today!
