In a recent announcement, Okta, Inc. revealed its new initiative aimed at addressing the growing need for cybersecurity talent and providing equal opportunities for individuals seeking careers in technology. The leading independent identity partner plans to invest $1.6 million in philanthropic grants to organizations that offer tech career opportunities for underrepresented communities such as women, people of color, veterans, and jobseekers from marginalized backgrounds. Additionally, Okta will provide 5,000 educational grants to unemployed professionals looking to transition to cybersecurity and enhance their Okta skills.
The demand for cybersecurity experts has skyrocketed in recent years due to the increasing prevalence of cyber threats. However, the supply of talent in this field is not keeping pace with the demand. The (ISC)2 Cybersecurity Workforce Study conducted in 2022 revealed a global cybersecurity worker gap of 3.4 million, while broader research indicates a tech talent gap of 40 million. Moreover, the current economic climate has made it even more challenging for individuals to enter or transition into tech or cybersecurity careers. Job opportunities in these fields are often out of reach for those from underrepresented communities. Okta’s philanthropic and educational grants aim to bridge this gap and ensure that individuals from all backgrounds have access to critical cybersecurity and technical training.
Moreover, Okta’s commitment aligns with the National Cyber Workforce and Education Strategy (NCWES) put forth by the White House. This comprehensive initiative aims to address both immediate and long-term needs in the cybersecurity workforce, emphasizing its significance for national security.
Eric Kelleher, Okta’s Chief Customer Officer, highlighted the urgent need for skilled cybersecurity professionals and emphasized the importance of individuals taking action to develop the required skills. Okta’s Cybersecurity Workforce Development Initiative aims to contribute to the future workforce by creating opportunities for a diverse range of talented individuals to enter the field.
As part of the initiative, Okta for Good will distribute $1.6 million in philanthropic grants to various organizations focused on inclusive pathways into technology. Some of the organizations that will receive funding include Ada Developer Academy, CodePath, ColorStack, Develop for Good, The Hidden Genius Project, NPower, Per Scholas, Techbridge Girls, Genesys Works, WiCys (Women in Cybersecurity), and Year Up. These partnerships will enable Okta to support young talent without four-year college degrees, help close the Opportunity Divide, and promote economic equity.
The educational grants component of the initiative will provide access to Okta’s learning catalog, practice exams, and certification exams to 5,000 professionals who are transitioning to careers in tech or cybersecurity. This program primarily targets individuals who have been displaced from technology careers, including veterans and their spouses. By earning technical certifications, these individuals can acquire the skills and confidence necessary to secure employment in the industry. According to Pearson VUE’s 2023 Value of IT Certification Report, 92% of certified individuals reported increased confidence in their abilities, and 82% produced higher quality work. Okta Certifications are also known for being some of the highest paying IT certifications in the industry. These grants will specifically cater to individuals residing in the United States with on-the-job experience in information technology or software development.
The importance of cybersecurity cannot be underestimated, as organizations across all industries strive to protect their customer and employee data. Okta recognizes the need to secure the necessary talent to address these challenges and is dedicated to playing its part. By supporting underrepresented communities, providing educational grants, and promoting diversity in the cybersecurity workforce, Okta is working towards closing the tech and cybersecurity skills gap. To learn more about Okta for Good and its efforts to bridge this gap, interested individuals can visit Okta’s official website.
About Okta:
Okta is a global leader in identity management, providing solutions that enable safe access to technology anywhere, on any device or application. Trusted by top brands worldwide, Okta offers secure access, authentication, and automation. With the flexibility and neutrality of its Okta Workforce Identity and Customer Identity Clouds, Okta empowers business leaders and developers to focus on innovation and achieve digital transformation through customizable solutions and over 7,000 pre-built integrations. Okta envisions a world where identity is fully owned and controlled by individuals. To learn more, visit okta.com.
It’s worth noting that Okta regularly discloses material non-public information, announces upcoming investor conferences, and complies with its disclosure obligations under Regulation FD through its investor.okta.com and okta.com/blog websites. Therefore, it is advisable for stakeholders to continue monitoring these platforms in addition to following press releases, SEC filings, and public conference calls and webcasts.