As we head into 2020, it’s no secret that the cybersecurity space is one of the fastest growing across the technology sector, with career opportunities increasing at a rapid rate. In 2019 alone, Burning Glass Technologies Labor Insights reports more than 620,000 cybersecurity job postings in the United States. And the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 32% growth in cybersecurity analysts by 2028. That presents a tricky problem for employers and a great opportunity for people who previously thought cybersecurity wasn’t a career path within reach.
Cybersecurity Jobs: Perception vs. Reality
Part of the reason we’re experiencing a huge skills shortage is the perception that cybersecurity is too specialized for many people to consider. The truth is that while cybersecurity is, without doubt, focused around a particular set of capabilities, it is becoming much more inclusive and attainable than many imagine. With the skills gap only growing wider, now is an exciting time for those looking to begin their path toward a fulfilling cybersecurity career.
Right off the bat, it’s important to bust the myth that to have a successful career in cybersecurity, you need an advanced degree in the subject or in a closely related IT field. In fact, any type of degree can be enhanced with IT certifications.
The reality is that IT professionals across the industry come from all kinds of backgrounds (non-technical included), with employers increasingly looking outside the field to identify people with the broader skills and attributes that can be effectively applied to cybersecurity roles. Technical skills can be taught, but the non-technical skills employers look for need to be honed over time.
Refine Your Professional Skills
Certain key professional skills, such as being analytical and paying strong attention to detail are extremely valuable. For example, it’s not uncommon for the disciplined thought processes and detailed approach that comes with many military roles to be successfully applied to a cybersecurity career.
Extending the talent search beyond traditionally qualified candidates to include experienced workers of all ages and backgrounds means cybersecurity recruitment will become much more focused on behavioral competencies like critical thinking, creativity and an eagerness to learn new skills. With this mindset in place, the barriers to entry will gradually come down.
Of course, the technical skills are important too. Where to start?
Tackle the Technical Skills
There are a variety of ways to get into cybersecurity and gain the knowledge and confidence necessary to succeed. Across private and public sectors, there are a range of formal structures in place that are working to advance cybersecurity education. The National Institute for Cyber Education (NICE) is one such initiative. NICE is a partnership between government, academia and the private sector that focuses on cybersecurity education, training and workforce development.
Likewise, IT certifications are the result of specialized training and hands-on experience that provide a clear indication of the capabilities and competence of people at all stages of their cybersecurity career.
Adding certifications to your resume offers eye-catching proof-points for prospective employers. For instance, when a hiring manager sees valid IT certifications on your resume, they immediately know that you not only have the knowledge but can perform as well.
Many IT certifications can be earned via self-study at your own pace and on your own time. The CompTIA Cybersecurity Career Pathway shows you exactly where to start and how to progress to reach your final career destination.
Get Started In Cybersecurity
Using a combination of education, self-learning and IT certifications to get a foot in the door is only the beginning of the story. In cybersecurity, opportunities increase with experience and skill level. It’s a career where a commitment to learning is not just nice to have, it’s a requirement given the rapid pace of change.
On a broader level, a collective change of mindset is what’s needed to prepare for the future. Employers need to follow the example of industry leaders who have successfully diversified their talent acquisition efforts to address serious skill shortages.
On the flip side, people from all walks of life, educational backgrounds and existing careers should start to think about how they will fit into the future workforce – cybersecurity just might be the ideal career path.
CompTIA is here to support you throughout your IT career. Get free resources, career advice, and special offers on CompTIA training and certifications!
