An artistic collaboration between Human Cognition and Artificial Intelligence | By Sean & TAPE3
Unleash the potential of cybersecurity talent! Learn how to build a sustainable talent ecosystem and bridge the skills gap in cybersecurity.
In the rapidly evolving domain of cybersecurity, finding adept talent can sometimes feel akin to finding the proverbial needle in a haystack. However, to navigate this challenge and foster a resilient cybersecurity workforce, a blend of innovative approaches and holistic strategies is imperative. This article delves into the dynamics of investing in prospective talent, raising awareness of the myriad opportunities within the field, and dismantling the barriers that hinder potential candidates and their potential employers from finding that match made in heaven.
Cultivating the Cybersecurity Talent Garden
Much like nurturing a garden, building a robust talent ecosystem necessitates proactive investment in budding cybersecurity enthusiasts. Collaborating with educational institutions, industry associations, and various organizations can pave the way for opportunities like scholarships, mentorships, and apprenticeships. Such initiatives provide hands-on experience and practical skill development. Furthermore, an inclusive approach, which embraces candidates of diverse backgrounds, genders, and ethnicities, is pivotal to diversifying and strengthening the cybersecurity landscape.
Spotlighting Cybersecurity Career Prospects
The vast expanse of cybersecurity offers numerous career avenues, many of which remain relatively unknown to potential candidates. To unveil these 'hidden treasures,' proactive engagement with academic institutions and the broader community becomes essential. Organizing workshops, career fairs, and community outreach programs can serve as platforms to ignite interest, clarify misconceptions, and guide talented individuals towards this fulfilling career path. Showcasing the exhilarating facets of cybersecurity not only garners interest but also brings forward those who might not have previously contemplated a profession in this sector.
Streamlining the Path to Cybersecurity Opportunities
Traditional hiring paradigms often set stringent criteria, inadvertently sidelining those who might bring unique skills and perspectives to the table. Overcoming this requires a shift in perspective—focusing less on formal qualifications and more on attributes like passion, adaptability, and problem-solving prowess. Embracing individuals from non-conventional backgrounds and acknowledging alternative forays into the world of cybersecurity is paramount. By clearing these proverbial paths, the doors open wide to a diverse candidate pool teeming with untapped potential.
Conversation Insights: The Expert Perspective
A recent NPower panel featuring industry luminaries shed light on various nuances of the cybersecurity talent dilemma. The discussion underscored the importance of aligning with an organization's mission, elevating the appeal of cybersecurity through representation, and the significance of adopting a holistic mindset during job pursuits. Addressing the talent gap isn't merely about filling positions but ensuring a rich tapestry of diverse thoughts, experiences, and skills that can collaboratively forge a safer digital realm.
Moderator
Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast [@RedefiningCyber]
On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/itspmagazine-podcast-radio-hosts/sean-martin
Panelists
Devon Bryan, Global CIO at Carnival Corporation
On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/devonabryan/
Kimberly Quan, Senior Manager, Cyber Fusion at Juniper Networks [@JuniperNetworks]
On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlyq/
Katrina M, VP of Product Security at Akamai Technologies [@Akamai]
On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrina-m-8477361/
Dr. Elizabeth Kolmstetter, Chief People Officer at Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency [@CISAgov]
On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-kolmstetter-8217289/
Licole Bursey, Alumni, NPower [@NpowerOrg]
On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/licole-bursey-5a25a3176/
Event Host: Nelson Abbott, Senior Director, Advanced Program Operations at NPower [@NPowerOrg]
On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/nelson-abbott/
Conclusion
Crafting a sustainable and inclusive talent ecosystem in cybersecurity is not the task of a single entity but a collaborative endeavor involving recruiters, educational establishments, communities, and the candidates themselves. With concerted efforts focused on nurturing talent, amplifying opportunities, and promoting inclusivity, the industry can effectively bridge the talent chasm. The collective aim? Empowering individuals from all walks of life to contribute to a secure and thriving digital future.
For those keen on delving deeper into the talent dynamics of cybersecurity and its broader implications, here's an insightful video that offers a comprehensive perspective.
Resources
Engaging with Advancing Tech Careers Collaborative for partnership opportunities: https://www.npower.org/get-involved/atcc/
Command Shift Diversity Directive toolkit: https://diversity.commandshift.org/diversitydirective/
NICE Job Description Toolkit: https://www.nist.gov/system/files/documents/2023/09/22/MTM%20Guidance%20on%20Writing%20a%20Hiring%20Rubric.pdf
NPower Virtual Career and Resource Fair: https://app.premiervirtual.com/events/15495c07-5f3a-4639-8b08-fe90b3ddfd24/npower-virtual-career-and-resource-fair/organization
This article represents the results of an interactive collaboration between Human Cognition and Artificial Intelligence.
Sincerely, Sean Martin and TAPE3
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Sean Martin is the host of the Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast, part of the ITSPmagazine Podcast Network—which he co-founded with his good friend Marco Ciappelli—where you may just find some of these topics being discussed.
Or, visit Sean’s personal website.
