According to a recent survey conducted by ThreatX, consumers believe that the current shortage of cybersecurity talent can be attributed to limited exposure to the profession and a lack of cybersecurity education and training at a younger age within school systems. The survey polled 2,000 consumers across the US and UK to gauge their concerns and outlook regarding the future of cybersecurity.
The results of the survey revealed that 90% of consumers expressed concerns about the future of cybersecurity if more isn’t done at an earlier stage to introduce students to the field. Additionally, 62% of respondents agreed that if they or their child had received more education in cybersecurity, including courses, clubs, and access to STEM programs, they would have considered entering the cybersecurity field.
The survey findings indicate that insufficient education and exposure to cybersecurity are major factors contributing to the talent shortage in this industry. Many consumers feel that the lack of awareness of the opportunities available in cybersecurity leads to less interest in pursuing careers in this field. Specifically, 72% of respondents believe that limited exposure to the profession at a younger age, the perception that a 4-year college degree is required for cybersecurity jobs, and the absence of cybersecurity education and training in schools are all responsible for the talent shortage.
The data clearly suggests that more needs to be done to provide students from all backgrounds with greater access to cybersecurity education and opportunities. “With more than 3.4 million cybersecurity jobs still open worldwide, the cybersecurity industry is in desperate need of professionals,” said Gene Fay, the CEO at ThreatX. Fay emphasized the need for partnerships between security vendors and education systems to create more mentorship and learning opportunities in schools. He added that considering more diverse candidates who may not meet the traditional degree requirements is also important in closing the talent gap.
The survey results also shed light on the importance of credentials in the cybersecurity field. 67% of respondents agreed that a career in cybersecurity should be attainable through certifications or apprenticeships, rather than exclusively focusing on a 4-year university degree. Furthermore, 52% believe that engaging students from all backgrounds in STEM and cybersecurity courses at an earlier age would help minimize the talent shortage.
Interestingly, the survey revealed that cybersecurity training and exposure are best introduced between the ages of 12 and 15. 54% of consumers believe that incorporating STEM and cybersecurity courses into school curriculums at the middle school or secondary school level would increase interest in cybersecurity careers later in life.
These findings underline the need for a concerted effort to provide diverse opportunities for students to learn about and engage with cybersecurity courses, trainings, and clubs. By doing so, the industry will have a better chance of closing the talent gap and diversifying the demographics currently dominating the profession. Additionally, the survey suggests that security vendors should shift their focus from traditional hiring practices and prioritize credentials like certifications, as well as consider candidates with diverse backgrounds, education, and ethnicities. Mentorship programs within the cybersecurity community can also play a vital role in attracting more talent to the field.
In conclusion, the survey conducted by ThreatX highlights the concerns and opinions of consumers regarding the cybersecurity talent shortage. Limited exposure to cybersecurity education and training at a younger age, coupled with a perceived reliance on traditional degree requirements, are regarded as key contributors to the shortage. To address this issue, greater efforts need to be made to provide students with broader access to cybersecurity education and opportunities. By embracing alternative credentials and prioritizing diversity in hiring practices, the industry can take significant steps towards closing the talent gap.