In a recent interview conducted by Dan Anderson, a vCISO and On-Call Roving reporter for CyberDefense Magazine, Dr. Wade Holmes, a member of the Cyversity Board of Directors, shared insights into the organization’s mission and objectives. Cyversity, a 501(c)(3) organization, aims to promote diversity and inclusion in the cybersecurity industry by providing educational programs and empowering underrepresented communities.
During the interview, Dr. Holmes emphasized the importance of creating a career path for individuals from underprivileged and underrepresented backgrounds who may not realize the opportunities available in cybersecurity. With a focus on empowering and enabling a diverse group of security practitioners and leaders, Cyversity strives to bridge the gap in the industry.
Established 10 years ago, Cyversity has been actively working towards its mission by collaborating with various educational institutions and industry partners. Dr. Holmes highlighted the organization’s efforts in expanding globally and reaching out to different regions through local chapters and community outreach initiatives. By partnering with organizations like Sans, ISC^2, and Cyber SN, Cyversity aims to provide job placement opportunities and career advancement support to its members.
In terms of certifications and training, Cyversity offers a structured curriculum tailored to individuals at different career levels. From entry-level certifications like CompTIA Security+ to advanced certifications like CISSP, the organization guides members through recommended career paths and training programs. Dr. Holmes also mentioned the possibility of introducing Cyversity’s own certifications in the future, as part of the organization’s growth strategy.
One of the key aspects of Cyversity’s approach is the mentorship program, which connects mentees with experienced professionals in the industry. By facilitating one-on-one mentoring relationships, the organization aims to provide guidance and support to individuals seeking to enter or advance in cybersecurity careers. Dr. Holmes emphasized the importance of building a community where members can access resources, training, and networking opportunities.
In terms of membership, Cyversity offers different tiers ranging from student membership to professional and veteran membership categories. The organization also welcomes corporate sponsorships, with varying levels of support designed to accommodate different company sizes and objectives. By fostering partnerships with industry associations and professional organizations, Cyversity aims to expand its reach and provide enhanced resources to its members.
Looking ahead, Dr. Holmes envisions Cyversity becoming a leading organization in developing a pipeline of cybersecurity professionals and connecting them with opportunities in the industry. Despite challenges in mentorship availability, the organization remains committed to expanding its network and engaging with professionals at various career stages to support growth and advancement.
As Cyversity continues to make strides in promoting diversity and inclusivity in cybersecurity, its focus on mentorship, training, and partnership collaborations reflects a holistic approach towards empowering the next generation of cyber leaders. To learn more about Cyversity and its initiatives, visit their website at https://www.cyversity.org/.