The other thing I remember about who is a good fit for cybersecurity is people who are "good thinkers," so don't confine yourself to thinking that you have to come out of the IT industry. I recall someone saying that philosophy majors are good candidates for working in the cybersecurity field. Maybe you can earn money with the liberal arts degree after all!
See the information I got below via email:
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Cyber Security Talent – A Critical National Priority The cyber security industry is currently facing a monumental shortfall in security professionals. There is a lack of capable, fresh, new talent within the industry. Talent that is vital to uphold national cyber defence capabilities. In the latest (ISC)2 report from the International Information System Security Certification Consortium, it is stated that the cyber security sector suffered a shortage of 4.07 million during 2019. Now at 3.12 million, the industry comprises of 700,000 security professionals. The ISC has put this skill shortage down to an ‘uncertain demand due to the economic impact of Covid-19’. Not only are existing cyber security professionals stretched, but the industry needs to grow by ‘89% worldwide and 41% in the US to fill the talent gap’ says the ISC. The report goes on to highlight that, amidst a need of professionals, current security teams are also at risk, as cuts are made in a bid to shave down IT departments amidst the ambiguity of remote working. Leaving companies more vulnerable than they may realize. ‘65% of organizations report a shortage of cybersecurity staff; a lack of skilled/experienced cybersecurity personnel is the top job concern among respondents (36%)’ - ISC A Critical National Priority Right now, cyber security, and the teams supporting it, can mean the difference between the collapse of a hospital, a power station crisis, or the distribution of fake or distorted global news. Each of these attacks can cause untold damage. Sometimes even death, as a consequence of corrupt systems preventing employees, including medical staff, doing their jobs. Security is a critical National Priority. Especially in the midst of COVID-19, where vital research regarding treatment and vaccines needs to be protected. But, while there may be a shortage right now, digital infrastructure is also a high priority, which means that in the long run, job security in cyber looks highly promising. According to The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, ‘cybersecurity jobs are among the fastest-growing career areas nationally.’ In fact, they argue that jobs in cyber security ‘will grow 31% through 2029, over seven times faster than the national average job growth of 4%.’ With that in mind, for students contemplating options for further education amidst the disruption caused by COVID-19, the wide pool of opportunities available through a cyber security degree is an enticing prospect. Training The skills learnt within cyber security include, and are by no means limited to, data analysis, data programming and scripting, networking, system administration, the analysis and exploration of cyber threats and cyber defence, computer science and software development, cryptocurrency, legal/ethics and compliance, and much more. By studying cyber security, and acquiring the necessary industry skills, a variety of other occupations are also made available. Occupations including digital forensic investigator, software developer, systems engineers and so on, also become a possibility. In addition, many cyber security university courses offer a foundation level for students that have not had much previous exposure. Meaning that those with a less technical background still have the opportunity to embark on a career in cyber. ‘In terms of the skills employers are looking for, cloud computing security emerged as the most in-demand skillset. However, just 49% of those working in the industry hold degrees in computer and information sciences, suggesting that it is common to retrain or move over from another industry.’ - (Ellen Daniel, Verdict) About SecurityHQ SecurityHQ prides itself on its global reputation as an advanced Managed Security Service Provider, delivering superior engineering-led solutions to clients around the world. By combining dedicated security experts, cutting-edge technology and processes, clients receive an enterprise grade experience that ensures that all IT virtual assets, cloud, and traditional infrastructures, are protected. Authors: Eleanor Barlow, Content Manager, SecurityHQ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Sechq Twitter: https://twitter.com/security_hq LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/securityhq/ |
