Growing need and high demand
Cybersecurity is one of the hottest sectors today, with new threats and challenges emerging each day. And with that, there is a huge push being undertaken by both business and education sectors to attract individuals toward a degree and career in cybersecurity.
According to Bureau of Labor Statistics projections, jobs for information security analysts are expected to grow 32% from 2022 to 2032.
Dynamic field
Cybersecurity evolves quickly so you will always be learning and developing new skills. There is ultimate growth potential — both in your career path and for learning opportunities.
"Cybersecurity has many career paths that call for a wide range of skills that extend beyond technical aptitude," said Keith Lehigh, the information security officer at CU System Administration. "From defending networks or simulating attacker activities, to helping organizations understand information security risks and finding workable solutions, the opportunities to learn new skills or apply existing skills abound."
Addison Stephens, a senior information security analyst in UCCS’s OIT department, holds a Security+ certification. “I feel very fortunate to have the position I do. My role challenges me to predict and stay ahead of cyber threats daily,” Stephens said.
What to expect
- Cybersecurity has something for everyone. Skills are needed from a diverse range of backgrounds.
- You will never be bored. New technology brings new risks. Creative problem solving takes you into uncharted areas.
- Job flexibility and highly transferable skills. These skills allow you to move anywhere in the world and apply to any industry sector.
- Multiple career options that are not just technical. Business, medical, law, defense, and intelligence all need workers skilled in cybersecurity.
- Multiple career pathways. Two and four-year degree programs, certifications, work-based experience, and apprenticeships are just some different career pathways that practitioners have taken to arrive in their current position.
Kevin Vu, a network security engineer in CU Anschutz’s Information Security and IT Compliance, collaborates with service administrators to safeguard network environments from cyber threats. "Education remains crucial, as networking can sometimes be complex. My job involves balancing the principle of least privilege with addressing business needs and demonstrating that security is not a roadblock. We can still accomplish our goals while being secure.”
How to prepare for a career in cybersecurity
Stephens’ journey into security began with her service in the Marines as an intelligence analyst. After receiving a computer systems technician certification, she joined an apprenticeship program run by Women in Cybersecurity, which further honed her skills through specialized training. She currently holds a Security+ certification.
- Learn how technologies work. Explore the basics of administrating a computer system, and configuring, running, and maintaining common applications. Learning how a network works and some basic coding are also helpful.
- Obtain an industry-recognized credential. Consider a certification, academic degree, or certificate of completion. Take some classes offered in high schools, colleges, and universities, and through training providers. Explore a wide range of free online resources. Look for summer camps or training opportunities to expand your skills.
- Network. Attend a conference or hackathon. Join a Meetup, after-school club, or professional organization.
- Get hands-on experience. Explore internship and apprenticeship options. Participate in a cyber defense, digital forensics, or cryptography competition.