Cyber talent shortage
Last year, we highlighted the shortage of cybersecurity talent in the workforce. Unfortunately, not much has changed. According to Cyberseek, a data analytics company that works closely with CompTIA, NICE, and the National Initiative for Cybersecurity and Technology, there is still a significant need for more cybersecurity workers. Currently, there are approximately 85 cybersecurity workers available for every 100 cyber security jobs. The most sought-after roles include systems administrators, cybersecurity engineers, cybersecurity analysts, security engineers, systems engineers, information systems security officers, network administrators, and information security analysts. This highlights the growing pains the cybersecurity industry is facing.
It’s Not All Technical
Many of the aforementioned jobs are technically intensive, but if you’re worried about sitting in front of a computer all day analyzing complex data, that’s not always the case. Cybersecurity spans various aspects of academia. A 2021 study involving cyber experts from different sectors and research areas found that cybersecurity is so pervasive in society today that a common understanding is necessary for the future. Cybersecurity incorporates fields such as sociology, psychology, risk, and decision science. This discipline spans across various industries, including finance, healthcare, government, and retail, each requiring unique cybersecurity solutions tailored to their specific challenges. We often forget that behind the keyboard is a human element, which is frequently the target of attackers. While technical skills are essential, soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking are equally important in cybersecurity. Professionals must be able to explain complex security issues to non-technical stakeholders, work collaboratively with different departments, and think creatively to outsmart the bad guys.
Job Openings and Prospects in the Field of Cybersecurity
What makes a cybersecurity professional is their expertise, regardless of the field they are pivoting from. You can always apply the knowledge gained elsewhere to cybersecurity. These types of candidates are highly sought after and can give you an edge if you choose to enter the field. This field is dynamic and multifaceted, offering numerous opportunities for those willing to adapt and learn. Whether you come from a technical background or another discipline, there is a place for you in cybersecurity. The industry’s growth and the increasing complexity of cyber threats ensure that skilled professionals will continue to be in high demand. By leveraging both technical and soft skills, you can build a rewarding career that not only protects organizations but also contributes to the broader goal of securing our digital future.