Explore the transition from casual Capture the Flag competitions to professional enterprise hacking in this 52-minute conference talk from NolaCon 2016. Learn about the fundamentals of penetration testing, including its definition, steps, and types. Discover essential skills for aspiring pen testers, from basic computer knowledge to soft skills like communication and professionalism. Gain insights on career development through certifications, mentorship, and personal branding. Address common mistakes, interview techniques, and strategies for advancing in the cybersecurity field. Whether you're a hobbyist or considering a career change, acquire valuable guidance on making the leap into professional ethical hacking and penetration testing.