Cybersecurity association rolls out free development program for members

Dive Brief:

To help address a global shortage of cybersecurity talent, (ISC)², a nonprofit member association of certified cybersecurity professionals, announced last week the creation of its Professional Development Institute (PDI). PDI will help professionals grow their skills and abilities with access to continuing professional education programs and other learning opportunities, (ISC)² said.
PDI's course offerings will be provided as a free portfolio to (ISC)² members and associates, the organization said. (ISC)² is also hiring 18 new staff members to manage content development and curriculum, and the organization said it would also build out a new 765-square-foot video production studio to help produce course content.
Courses will be available in an online format, and will include lessons on DevSecOps and GDPR for security professionals, among other topics. The association will use member surveys and focus groups to assess changes to its curriculum strategy.

Dive Insight:

Cybersecurity talent gaps continue to affect organizations even though many experts believe creating a culture of cybersecurity is important for all levels of employees. Training that stresses the importance of data protection is key to reducing costly human errors; too few employees understand the risks their own behaviors can pose. Some employers have chosen to reinforce this mindset via simulation programs.

As employers scramble to train staffers on threats, lack of available talent is exacerbating the problem. Some believe that outreach into the gaming community can help build a stronger applicant pipeline. Recruiting for cybersecurity jobs has been a persistent problem in the public sector as well.

Access to training and a more robust applicant pipeline are at the top of priorities for chief information security officers. HR may have talent readily able to pursue such positions, as a recent study of IT professionals showed that many recognize the cybersecurity industry's growth and are interested in upskilling to pursue careers in the field.