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In Focus: The Desperate Shortage of Women in Cyber Security

we-can-do-itChallenges facing education today in the United States include staying competitive, closing minority gaps, and closing gender gaps. With the rise of STEM education initiatives in American education, it’s been everyone’s intent for women to seek careers and opportunities for advanced training in science and technology industries– but is it working? Forbes’ Steve Morgan recently shed light on alarming statistics in his article, “Calling All Women: The Cybersecurity Field Needs You And There’s A Million Jobs Waiting”.

Ironically, an industry that’s focused on building secure walls may have their own gaps to fill.

“Only 11% of the world’s information security workforce are women, according to the Women’s Society of Cyberjutsu (WSC) — a 501(c)3 non-profit passionate about helping and empowering women to succeed in the Cybersecurity field.”

The shortage of female cybersecurity professionals presents a great opportunity for women looking to begin a career in technology- at least here in the states where over 209,000 cyber security jobs were left unfilled in 2015. For someone just beginning the job hunt, entry into the industry may seem pretty intimidating. Luckily, there are several opportunities for training and job placement within the Cybersecurity field and you don’t have to be a millennial to participate.

For Women who are looking for support and training for a career in information security, Women’s Society of Cyberjutsu (WSC) is a great resource. Whether you’re transitioning to cybersecurity, just entering the field, or are a seasoned vet, WSC offers hands-on technical training and workshops that provide practical skills that translate into real-world experience.

Launched in 2013, by Women in Cyber Security (WiCyS), an organization dedicated to the continuing effort to recruit, retain and advance women in cybersecurity. WiCyS brings together women from all walks – students, faculty, researchers, and professionals in cybersecurity to share knowledge/experience, networking and mentoring.

For beginners and high school students looking for a ‘leg-up’, sites like Hacker High School and Institute for Cybersecurity Education, help students learn cybersecurity and critical Internet skills while investigating topics like web privacy, and network security.

The shortage of women in the cybersecurity workforce has lead to the creation of initiatives aimed at improving these statistics, because without striking a balance of men and women working information security, its products and services will apply and/or appeal to only one end of the spectrum.

“We believe that without a workforce made up of men and women, cybersecurity companies will not build products that women—half of consumers—will buy and use. That means greater danger for all of us. We strive to put effective solutions to bring women into the field into action (WomenInCyber.org).”

A movement has begun to narrow this drastic cybersecurity staffing gap, so that an industry responsible for protecting billions of people worldwide, doesn’t leave behind the influence and participation of more than half of it: Women. The cybersecurity market is estimated to grow to $170 billion by 2020 and many of the top cybersecurity vendors are looking to hire new talent to staff their rapidly growing companies.

Take advantage of new hiring opportunities by referring to our Endpoint Security Solutions Directory, or download our 2016 Endpoint Security Solutions buyers guide, for further contact and hiring information of the top 24 endpoint solutions providers.

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