Breaking into the world of IT auditing wasn’t something I had planned from the start — but looking back, every step I took led me here. If you’re considering a career in IT auditing or just curious about how to get started, I want to share my journey, challenges, lessons learned, and some actionable tips for aspiring auditors.
Where I Started: A Foundation in Data and Systems
My journey began not directly in IT audit, but in data, statistics, and systems. I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Statistics and later pursued a Postgraduate Diploma in Computer Science, which laid a strong foundation in analytical thinking and technical skills. These disciplines taught me how to break down complex information and look at systems with a critical lens — skills that are essential in IT auditing.
Later, I advanced my education in Cybersecurity and Information Security, earning credentials from Red River College and Concordia University. This mix of technical knowledge and academic training gave me a broad view of IT systems and the risks associated with them.
Early Professional Roles That Prepared Me
Before officially becoming an IT auditor, I worked in several roles that shaped my understanding of risk, controls, and system management:
- IT Service Desk Officer
This was my entry point into the IT world. I resolved user issues, managed tickets, and supported infrastructure. It taught me how systems interact, how incidents escalate, and what users struggle with most — crucial insight for anyone conducting audits later on. - Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst
Here, I monitored real-time threats, ran vulnerability scans, and helped investigate security incidents. This role was intense and hands-on. It sharpened my technical edge and introduced me to log analysis, SIEM tools, and incident response workflows — all useful in audit engagements. - Internal Auditor (Non-IT)
I eventually took on responsibilities as an internal auditor, where I began to understand frameworks like COSO, COBIT, and how internal controls are documented, tested, and improved. While this wasn’t yet a pure IT audit role, it helped me connect business objectives with control activities and risks.
Each of these roles moved me closer to my goal, even if I didn’t realize it at the time.
Breaking Into IT Auditing: Making the Pivot
The real turning point came when I started bridging my security knowledge with audit principles. I began learning about IT general controls (ITGCs), change management processes, system access reviews, and data governance. These areas allowed me to contribute meaningfully to audit projects even before holding a formal “IT Auditor” title.
Eventually, I landed a full-time role as an Information Systems Auditor, where I now perform audits of information systems, evaluate controls, and make recommendations to reduce risks. I also work with data analytics, audit software tools, and reporting platforms to drive insights and decision-making.
Certifications and Continuous Learning
Certifications helped reinforce my credibility and competence. I pursued industry-recognized certs such as:
CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor) – Essential for understanding the full audit lifecycle and control frameworks.
CISM (Certified Information Security Manager) – Helped me bridge IT risk with business strategy.
Security Awareness and Cybersecurity Proficiency Certificates – Provided practical skills and validated my knowledge.
But beyond certifications, I invested time in self-study, networking, and real-world projects to keep growing.
What I’ve Learned (So Far)
Becoming an IT auditor is about more than just checking boxes. Here are a few of the biggest lessons I’ve learned:
✅ 1. Communication Is Everything
You need to explain complex risks and technical weaknesses in ways that business leaders can understand. It’s not just about knowing the tech, it’s about making it meaningful to others.
✅ 2. Always Be Curious
Every audit is different. Systems change, risks evolve, and new technologies emerge. You have to stay curious and keep asking, “What could go wrong here?”
✅ 3. Collaboration Is Key
Audit isn’t a solo sport. You work with IT teams, developers, compliance managers, and leadership. Building rapport and trust is crucial for successful audits.
✅ 4. Documentation Matters
One of the biggest surprises? How much time goes into documentation. Good auditors document not just what they find, but how they found it, so results are repeatable, defensible, and trustworthy.
Tips for Beginners Who Want to Get into IT Auditing
If you’re just starting or considering a pivot into IT audit, here’s what I recommend:
- Understand the Basics of Audit and Risk
Learn the five stages of audit (planning, fieldwork, reporting, follow-up, closure) and understand frameworks like:
COBIT
NIST
ISO/IEC 27001
ITIL
Even a general understanding goes a long way.
- Start Where You Are
You don’t need to start in an audit role. Roles in tech support, cybersecurity, or QA testing can all give you transferable skills. Your path doesn’t have to be linear. - Learn About Controls
Controls are the heart of IT auditing. Get comfortable identifying control gaps, understanding policies and procedures, and suggesting improvements. - Build a Portfolio or Blog
Start a blog (like I did) where you document your learning. Share insights, summaries of what you’ve read, or case studies. This demonstrates initiative and helps attract attention from recruiters or clients. - Network
Engage on LinkedIn, join audit or cybersecurity forums, and connect with others in the field. Many of my opportunities came through professional relationships and referrals. - Cert Up, But Strategically
Start with CISA if you’re serious about IT audit. Supplement it with relevant courses or certificates based on the type of auditing you want to do (financial, technical, cloud, etc.).
Final Thoughts
I never imagined I’d become an IT auditor when I was starting out, but now I can’t imagine doing anything else. IT auditing is a field that blends technical knowledge, analytical thinking, and communication.
If you’re reading this and wondering whether it’s for you, my answer is simple: start where you are, learn continuously, and don’t be afraid to evolve.
Your path may not be traditional, but neither was mine — and that’s what makes it powerful.
Want to hear more about specific tools I use or how I manage audit fieldwork? Let me know in the comments or connect with me on LinkedIn. I’m always happy to help others on the same journey.
