INE Security Aligns with White House Plan to Close Cyber Skills Gap
September 12 2024 - 7:04AM
There are nearly 4 million unfilled cybersecurity jobs worldwide, a
talent shortage that is growing more pressing as cyber crime
becomes easier and cheaper to deploy. In the United States alone,
there are more than a half million open cybersecurity positions,
and the need is growing steadily. The Bureau of Labor Statistics
projects a 31% growth in employment for information security
analysts by 2029, a significantly faster growth trajectory than the
average occupation.
These circumstances are prompting action from national security
leaders. The White House Office of the National Cyber Director
(ONCD) recently launched the “Service for America” initiative, in
collaboration with the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). This
national effort addresses the pressing cybersecurity skills gap,
which currently sees over 500,000 unfilled positions across the
United States. The initiative aims to develop a diverse and skilled
workforce capable of handling the nation's cybersecurity challenges
by removing unnecessary degree requirements, expanding work-based
learning, and bringing together employers, academia, local
Governments, and non-profits to meet specific training
needs.
INE Security, a global leader in cybersecurity training, is
launching a strategic initiative to align with these efforts by
partnering with notable educational and non-profit organizations
including Virtually Testing Foundation, FOUR18 Intelligence, and
Columbus State University, to enhance cybersecurity training with
practical, hands-on experiences. These collaborations are designed
to prepare learners for real-world information security careers,
directly contributing to the initiative’s goal of closing the
workforce gap.
“Many Americans do not realize that a cyber career is available
to them,” wrote National Cyber Director Harry Coker, Jr. in a blog
post announcing the program. “There is a perception that you need a
computer science degree and a deeply technical background to get a
job in cyber. The truth is, cyber jobs are available to anyone who
wants to pursue them. Choosing a cyber career means choosing
service to our country.”
"Aligning our efforts with those of the National Cyber Workforce
and Education Strategy to advance national cybersecurity
preparedness not only underscores our commitment to the industry
but also contributes to national security,” said Dara Warn, CEO of
INE Security. “Our partnerships enhance the workforce by equipping
professionals with necessary skills and support the initiative’s
aim to connect over 250,000 Americans to cybersecurity jobs by
2025."
Expanding Access Through Apprenticeships and Internships
INE Security is collaborating with non-profit organizational
institutions including the Virtually Testing Foundation, a
California-based 501(c)3 e-learning non-profit organization. The
alliance provides premium access to cybersecurity training to
students at no cost, creating opportunities for thousands of
students to receive hands-on training and ultimately reduce the
skill shortage.
It is through partnerships like these that INE Security is
continuing to align efforts with the national goal of democratizing
access to education in technology and cybersecurity, creating a
more inclusive industry. “We believe this collaboration will open
doors for our interns and equip them with the skills needed to
thrive in the IT/InfoSec sector,” said Victor Monga, Co-Founder at
Virtually Testing Foundation.
Job Role-Based Hands-On Training Solutions
INE Security is partnering with Four18 Intelligence, an
innovator in live-fire training. Collaborations like these embody
the White House’s advocacy for work-based learning by making
high-quality cybersecurity training accessible and impactful for
learners at every stage of their careers. The initiative also
introduces a unique feature where workforce learners can take their
training records and any unused subscription time to their
employers, facilitating continuous learning and ongoing skill
development in their new roles.
This initiative reflects a shared commitment by INE Security and
Four18 Intelligence to not only equip learners with skills but also
support their ongoing development in the cybersecurity field. Ron
Stefanski, Strategic Advisor for Workforce and Education Business
Development for Four18 Intelligence, notes “Together with INE
Security, we’re introducing an added dimension to proactive
cybersecurity training that equips learners with the hands-on
experience essential for effective and powerful performance in
their roles on day one.”
Strategic Educational Collaborations
INE Security is partnering with Columbus State University, a
public university in Georgia, to integrate the Junior Penetration
Tester (eJPT) certification into its curriculum. The eJPT learning
path's hands-on nature, robust application, and immediate feedback
were key in addressing the practical training gap. Cybersecurity
lecturers at CSU led the integration of the eJPT certification.
Since then, 122 students have registered and completed the
certification, following a progressive training model starting with
IT Fundamentals and CompTIA certifications, followed by eJPT, and
culminating in the SEC+ certification. The eJPT certification
ensures foundational skills for advanced roles, with a 90%
first-attempt pass rate and immediate feedback for those retaking
the exam.
National Impact and Future Goals
Collaborations like these and others between INE Security and
educational organizations and institutions highlight INE Security's
proactive approach in the cybersecurity education sector. They
directly contribute to the national agenda of developing a
resilient, capable, and diverse cyber workforce. Through innovative
training and strategic partnerships, INE Security is helping to
reinforce cyber risk management worldwide and shape a secure
digital future for the United States.
About INE Security:INE Security is the premier provider of
online networking and cybersecurity training and certification.
Harnessing a powerful hands-on lab platform, cutting-edge
technology, a global video distribution network, and world-class
instructors, INE Security is the top training choice for Fortune
500 companies worldwide for cybersecurity training in business and
for IT professionals looking to advance their careers. INE
Security’s suite of learning paths offers an incomparable depth of
expertise across cybersecurity and is committed to delivering
advanced technical training while also lowering the barriers
worldwide for those looking to enter and excel in an IT career.
- INE Security Launches New Initiative
Press Team
INE Security
917-715-0911
Press@ine.com