New to Cybersecurity?
Whether you just graduated and are looking to start your career, lost your job recently, want a great career with more job security and better pay, or are changing paths later in life — cybersecurity is a rewarding and in-demand field.
Upskilling? Retraining? starting or changing careers?
Many careers were impacted by COVID-19. The pandemic has left the US with some of the largest unemployment numbers since the Great Depression. Many jobs were already facing threats from automation or other forms of technological disruption. But now, many people find themselves competing for work in a flooded market.
Unless they’re in cybersecurity. Cybersecurity has been affected the least by the pandemic. Despite a slow down, there is still a growing demand for cybersecurity professionals. And there will be for years.
Keep scrolling to learn more about cybersecurity as a career and how to get started.
“Cybersecurity hiring managers are increasingly finding that one of the most effective ways to broaden out their pool of quality candidates is to look farther afield than standard hacker pedigrees or cybersecurity college credits.” — DarkReading
“Contrary to perceptions that have dogged the cyber industry and academia, no matter what one has studied – whether fine arts, English literature or education – each brings relevant and necessary skills that can help to upgrade the traditional cyber-skills toolkit.” — WeForum
“It’s a myth that a degree in computer sciences and a background in cybersecurity is necessary for success in the field… In reality, people can be anything from former police officers to artists and musicians.” — Mimecast
Is A Career In Cybersecurity Right for You?
- Do you… enjoy technology and figuring out how computers and other technologies work?
- Do you… have the ability to see what might go wrong, figure out what’s causing problems, find problems before they happen, or discover weaknesses or loopholes that could be used for other purposes?
- Do you… have an eye for details but can still keep the big picture in mind?
- Do you… enjoy learning new skills and expanding your knowledge?
- Do you… have a curious mind that likes new challenges, have good communication skills, have the ability to clearly articulate complex issues, and enjoy being methodical and analytical?
Areas of Cybersecurity
There are many areas within Cybersecurity ranging from applications to data centers, encryption to human resources, governance and risk to business continuity. The list is long and full of variety but focus around the basics of
- Coding
- Systems
- Applications
- Networking
- Security Intelligence
Getting familiar with these areas and the possible jobs and roles involved will help you decide on which certifications you’ll need to progress in the field.
Take control of your future: Get Certified
Without a certification, it will be hard (if not impossible) to transition to a career in cybersecurity.
A recent Fortinet report revealed that over 80% of those surveyed said they had a certification, that others on their teams were certified, and that their companies preferred to hire those with certifications. 94% reported that their certification better prepared them for their job.
No matter where or why you’re starting a career in cybersecurity, a certification opens doors.
CompTIA A+ Certification
Considered the fundamental starting point of cybersecurity certification. CompTIA A+ shows future employers you have the skills and knowledge needed to be work in cybersecurity.
Mile2 Foundations Pack
Get everything needed to start a career in cybersecurity. These courses prepare you for the Mile2 certification exams and CompTIA’s A+, Networking+ and Security+ exams.
Project Management Certification
Still unsure cybersecurity is a fit for you? A Project Management Certification will open doors and create job security. Certified Project Managers are always in demand across industries.