60 Seconds with… Sailor First Class Kalvin Balasingam Cyber Operator
Video / November 27, 2025
Transcript
What is the biggest myth you've heard about being a cyber operator in the CAF?
Ooh, I think it's that most of us are hackers. It's actually the contrary—the majority of us are in a defensive role.
Hi, I'm Sailor First Class Balasingham, and I'm a Cyber Analyst with CFNOC Bravo Squadron, Cyber Protection Team. Today we're doing the 60 Seconds Challenge, so let's get right into it!
In simple terms, what is a cyber operator?
There’s many different roles within the cyber operator trade. Mine specifically is incident response. They send us somewhere, we do an investigation, and we push up reports.
What are the top 3 attributes a cyber operator should have?
I'd say adaptability, tenacity, and teamwork.
How do you unwind after a long day?
Oh, me I just go to sleep. I can sleep for a really long time. Some call it iron deficiency; I call it chasing my dreams.
What made you pick this occupation?
I had a knack for cybersecurity and played way too much Call of Duty as a kid.
Can you describe what threat hunting is?
It's basically when we do an assessment of a network. We look for compromises, document any vulnerabilities, and give the network owners an OK that their network is safe.
What does your work environment typically look like?
Usually, it just looks like an office, but sometimes it can be 20 minutes from home, and other times it can be overseas.