Lynn Dohm
Executive Director, Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS)
A shift to skills-based hiring and training is key to solving cybersecurity’s workforce shortage, creating more opportunities and stronger security teams.
The cybersecurity industry is facing a significant workforce shortage, with organisations often struggling to fill necessary roles. Yet, traditional hiring often overlooks qualified candidates due to rigid degree requirements. Shifting to skills-based hiring expands access to a broader talent pool.
Power of skills-based hiring
Skills-based hiring and training can create more opportunities for aspiring cybersecurity professionals while strengthening organisational security. By focusing on demonstrable skills rather than rigid educational requirements, organisations can tap into a broader talent pool, including self-taught professionals, career changers and graduates from alternative training programmes. While credentials are important, this approach not only fosters diversity in cybersecurity but also ensures that hiring decisions are based on merit and real-world capability rather than credentials alone.
Cyber talent must be
continually developed.
Building training pathways for growth
Cybersecurity is a rapidly changing field. It requires continuous learning and skills development. Cyber talent must be continually developed. Structured upskilling, mentorship and training programmes help professionals advance in their careers. Such initiatives can ensure that organisations nurture talent from within, reducing turnover and fostering a culture of growth and innovation. Importantly, this hands-on learning enables organisations to keep their workforce up to date with emerging cyber threats and technologies.
Advancing cybersecurity by merit
A skills-based hiring and training approach leads to a more capable and well-rounded workforce. Organisations that prioritise skills over credentials create a stronger workforce while enhancing their overall security posture. By embracing this shift, the industry can bridge the talent gap, empower more individuals to enter the field and ultimately create a safer digital landscape for everyone.
