The cybersecurity sector is booming with job opportunities, but there’s a shortage of skilled workers to fill the roles.
According to the 2023 ISC2 Global Workforce Study, the cybersecurity workforce has grown to an estimated 5.5 million, showing significant growth. However, the study also highlights a concerning reality – the cybersecurity workforce is still too small to keep up with the increasing threat landscape. The industry needs an annual workforce growth rate of 12.6% to be effective, but it only saw an 8.7% increase, exacerbating the workforce deficit.
Ricardo Villadiego, CEO and founder of LUMU, a freemium cloud-based cybersecurity analysis software, emphasizes the growing need for cybersecurity skills. Villadiego believes that individuals in high school, college, or starting from scratch should build a skill set to meet the rising demand.
The cybersecurity industry faces challenges from geopolitical tensions, new technologies, and emerging threats. The pay is also attractive, with entry-level cybersecurity analysts earning around $81,000, according to Payscale.
Tom Kellermann, Senior Vice President of Cyber Strategy at Contrast Security, points out the shortage of cybersecurity professionals, emphasizing the need for more defenders in the field. Kellermann believes that a passion for defense is essential for anyone looking to enter the cybersecurity field.
To address the skills gap, CompTIA’s State of Cybersecurity 2024 report highlights the importance of bringing in less experienced professionals who can continue to build their skills.
For those interested in pursuing a career in cybersecurity, taking free online courses and obtaining certifications can help develop a strong skill set. Fortune has curated six free online courses that can make individuals specialized players in cybersecurity and attractive candidates for hiring managers.
Villadiego recommends using resources from CISCO and CISA websites to gain fundamental networking knowledge and learn about cyber threats and defense strategies. Before starting any coursework, it’s essential to schedule certification test dates and purchase exam vouchers to prepare effectively.
For those looking for more advanced education, Fortune has ranked the best master’s degrees in cybersecurity.