Investing in a Robust Cybersecurity Workforce
– Bruce Byrd
As organizations of all sizes face technical, cyber threats, having a comprehensive cybersecurity workforce is essential. Investing in a robust security workforce is a critical component for any organization to ensure the safety of its data and digital assets. Building a stable and knowledgeable workforce requires the right people, skills, and processes to keep enterprises safe. Hereâs what you need to know about investing in a strong cybersecurity workforce. 1) Recruit and Retain the Best Talent To ensure your organizationâs overall security posture and data safety, you need to recruit and retain top-notch cybersecurity talent. It is not only essential to hire qualified personnel with proficiency in the latest security solutions, but experience that offers both technical prowess and a creative approach to solving security challenges. 2) Ensure your Recruiting Processes are Seamless The recruitment process needs to be streamlined and efficient so it can quickly identify and select the right cybersecurity pros. Look for a recruiting platform that is tailored to the cybersecurity industry and gives you access to a global pool of qualified applicants. This will help ensure that your processes are up-to-date, fast, and effective. 3) Provide Ongoing Training and Education Palo Alto Networks has demonstrated support for building a diverse and robust cyber workforce through various programs and partnerships. These initiatives include: 1) Palo Alto Networks Cybersecurity Academy: Providing free curricula for cybersecurity courses used by over 900 universities, community colleges, high schools, and middle schools in the U.S. This program includes hands-on labs and benefits both educators and students. 2) Palo Alto Networks Systems Engineering (SE) Academy: Offering a six-month rotation in different business roles at Palo Alto Networks after completing the academy’s curriculum. This real-world experience enhances participants’ understanding of how cybersecurity intersects with modern business operations. 3) Cyber Scholars Program: Providing access, mentorship, and training for individuals pursuing cyber careers from underrepresented communities. Partnering with organizations like the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, the program awards scholarships to students in technology-related STEM and business fields at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Predominantly Black Institutions (PBIs). The program has been extended to include Latin American and Hispanic communities. 4) Cyber A.C.E.S. Program: Teaching foundational cyber concepts to children aged 5-15 through accessible and interactive activities. Lesson guides are available for delivery and sharing with local schools and communities. 5) Support for Khan Academy: Palo Alto Networks supports Khan Academy’s mission of providing free education in STEM subjects, including math, science, cybersecurity, and AI. Khan Academy has over 150 million registered users. 6) Collaboration with CYBER.ORG and the Virginia Department of the Blind and Vision Impaired (DBVI): Developing a pilot program to offer hands-on cybersecurity labs for individuals who are blind and vision impaired. 7) Partnership with the state of North Dakota: Designing and delivering Cyber Madness, the first statewide high school competition in the nation, using Palo Alto Networks’ online coursework and firewalls. 8) Sponsorship of GenCyber Girls in CybHER Security Camp: Supporting the participation of fourth-grade cohort campers at Dakota State University in South Dakota, joining middle school students in the camp. Overall, Palo Alto Networks is actively involved in initiatives that promote diversity, education, and practical training in cybersecurity, from K-12 to higher education, to create a stronger and inclusive cyber workforce.
Link: https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/2023/08/investing-in-a-robust-cybersecurity-workforce/