Security News > 2024 > July > Exploring the root causes of the cybersecurity skills gap

What are the primary factors contributing to the cybersecurity skills gap? Are there specific areas within cybersecurity that are more affected than others?

Several factors across the technology industry are responsible for the cybersecurity skills gap, including lack of representation and diversity, and insufficient training opportunities given the rapid evolution of cybersecurity threats and tools.

The cybersecurity skills gap will only continue to widen if organizations don't address these and other issues head on through deliberate and intentional investment in talent development.

Professionals and aspiring professionals should focus on building out a well-rounded skillset where they continuously upskill and reskill in technical skills and tools, but also demonstrate competency in power skills and leadership skills.

As technologies change and new challenges arise, it's paramount that organizations and talent take a holistic approach to skills, investing in power skills like interpersonal communication, problem solving, executive presence and creative thinking, along with technical skills and knowledge of how bad actors exploit threat vectors to proactively defend the organization against potential threats, and how to communicate incidents and responses in ways that different audiences can understand.

How effective are current education and training programs in preparing individuals for cybersecurity roles? What improvements are needed in these programs to address the skills gap better?

News URL

https://www.helpnetsecurity.com/2024/07/09/koma-gandy-skillsoft-cybersecurity-skills-gap/