Cy Says Blog & Podcast

In the dynamic landscape of cybersecurity education, CyberUp’s PowerUp youth program stands as a beacon for young minds eager to explore the world of online safety. PowerUp youth program is a transformative initiative designed to provide a fun, free, and hands-on experience for students. Through engaging activities, the program empowers participants to understand the intricacies of the Internet and equips them with crucial knowledge on staying safe in the digital realm. By partnering with cybersecurity experts and local schools, PowerUp encourages students to think critically about their online presence while introducing them to the idea of cybersecurity as a career. 

CyberUp’s PowerUp youth program, which seeks to eliminate barriers that would normally keep some students from receiving this essential information, could not exist without sponsors who believe in our mission. Today, we’d like to highlight two of our amazing sponsors: PwC and Maryville University.

PwC: Catalysts for Innovation and Learning

PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) a global leader in professional services, plays a pivotal role in the success of the PowerUp initiative. Beyond financial contributions, PwC employees have volunteered their time to share their expertise and experience with the young people in our program.

"PwC US supports the PowerUp youth education program for its ongoing impact in bringing awareness to youth around the cybersecurity space,” said Rik Boren, Partner at PwC.  “Providing cybersecurity information and skills can help shape their education and future career opportunities, potentially in cybersecurity.  By investing in this program, we are hopeful that we can help increase interest in cybersecurity topics with youth in underserved communities. Introducing cybersecurity skills today is investing in their future -- to develop and grow skills that are marketable for their future careers, help address the cybersecurity skills shortfall, and help the future security of the world." 

Maryville University: Commitment to Academic Excellence

Maryville University brings its dedication to academic excellence to the PowerUp youth program through its generous sponsorship. Their commitment to improving the lives of St. Louis citizens through education is the type of mission that we at CyberUp love to collaborate with. Students can’t enter a career field they know nothing about, which is why it’s essential to introduce them to these pathways as early as possible so that they can make informed decisions about their future.

“Maryville University's sponsorship of the PowerUp youth program directly correlates with our strategic plan, access & opportunity for all, especially our youth,” explains Brian Gant, Assistant Dean of Technology at Maryville University. 

Program Reach and Impact:

Thanks to the generous support of PwC and Maryville University, CyberUp’s PowerUp youth program has successfully reached over 250 students in the St. Louis area since October 2023. The program's hands-on approach and the sponsorship's commitment to education and mentorship have left a lasting impact on young minds, preparing them for a future where cybersecurity plays a crucial role.

If you would like CyberUp to visit your elementary or middle school and participate in our free program, you can find more information about it here: https://wecyberup.org/powerup. Additionally, if you're passionate about helping our youth become more cyber-aware and would like to volunteer with us, you can learn more about volunteer opportunities here: https://wecyberup.org/volunteer/.

Let’s dive into a topic that many of us can relate to on a personal level: imposter syndrome. If you've ever felt like a fraud, doubting your capabilities and fearing that you'll be exposed as someone who doesn't belong, then you're not alone. Imposter syndrome is a common challenge in the cybersecurity field, but fear not, because we're here to help you overcome it.

First off, let's understand what imposter syndrome is all about. It's that constant nagging feeling that despite our accomplishments and expertise, we don't deserve our success. You know, that little voice in the back of your head saying, "You're just lucky," or "Everyone else knows more than you." Sound familiar? Yeah, we've all been there.

So how do we tackle this imposter syndrome beast? Let's explore some strategies to help you regain your confidence and embrace your skills in cybersecurity.

1. Recognizing and challenging negative self-talk

   It's time to silence that inner critic! Identify those nagging thoughts and challenge their validity. I find it helpful to give that inner critic a name so that when those negative thoughts come up, I can sit back and process what’s being said. It also makes it easier to tell that inner voice to sit down and shut up. Replace self-doubt with positive affirmations. “What if I CAN do it?” or “What if I DO get the job?” Remind yourself of the projects you've completed and the knowledge you bring to the table.

2. Building a support network and seeking mentorship

   Don't underestimate the power of a solid support system. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who can uplift and inspire you. Seek out mentors who can guide you and provide valuable advice. Collaboration and learning from others can do wonders for your confidence and help motivate you to step outside of your comfort zone.

3. Embracing continued learning and skill development

   The cybersecurity field is ever-evolving, so make sure you stay on top of the latest trends and developments. Engage in continuous learning through online courses, attending webinars, or reading industry publications. Setting achievable goals and celebrating your progress along the way will boost your confidence.

4. Practicing self-care and managing stress

   Take time to care for yourself both physically and mentally. Engage in activities that help reduce stress, such as exercising, meditating, or pursuing hobbies. Balancing your work and personal life is crucial for maintaining overall well-being.

Now, let's talk about enhancing your confidence in the cybersecurity field.

5. Acknowledging personal achievements and expertise

   Take a moment to reflect on your past successes and the skills you've acquired. Give yourself credit for the challenges you've conquered and the growth you've achieved. Celebrate milestones, no matter how small, to remind yourself of your capabilities.

6. Embracing failures as learning opportunities

   Remember, mistakes are a normal part of the learning process. Instead of dwelling on failures, use them as stepping stones to success. Learn from your mistakes, adapt, and improve your skills. Failure doesn't define you; it's how you bounce back that truly matters.

7. Developing a personal brand and showcasing expertise

   In the age of social media, creating an online presence can be a powerful tool. Showcase your knowledge and skills through platforms like LinkedIn or personal blogs. Participate in industry events and share your expertise to establish yourself as a trusted professional.

Remember that imposter syndrome is more common than you may think. It's a hurdle that many professionals face, but it doesn't define your worth or expertise. By challenging negative self-talk, building a support network, and embracing continuous learning, you can overcome imposter syndrome or at least quiet your inner critic and step out of your comfort zone anyway. Celebrate your achievements, learn from failures, and showcase your expertise to build the confidence you deserve in the cybersecurity field.

Finding top talent is hard especially when your team is already stretched thin. You need to find a person who can hit the ground running, but how? Gone are the days of solely judging candidates based on their degrees and experience. Skills-based hiring is revolutionizing the hiring process.

Skills-based hiring prioritizes skill sets over formal education and experience. While traditional hiring often relies heavily on educational background and work history, skills-based hiring flips the script. Employers now recognize that as long as candidates possess the necessary skills, their lack of formal education or relevant job experience shouldn't disqualify them. For instance, self-taught coders may lack a degree or prior coding job but possess the skills needed for the role. This approach focuses on inclusivity, welcoming candidates based on their abilities rather than excluding them due to specific prerequisites. However, it's crucial to verify candidates' skills through assessments or assignments rather than solely relying on their claims. This ensures candidates' skill levels align with the job requirements.

Skills-based hiring is starting to rise in popularity. Traditionally, recruiters would sift through countless resumes, looking for specific qualifications and experience. While these criteria are important, they don't always give a complete picture of a candidate's potential. Skills-based hiring is a more inclusive approach that emphasizes the actual skills an individual possesses, rather than just their credentials.

Now, you might be wondering why skills-based hiring matters. It comes with a multitude of advantages. It promotes diversity and inclusion in the workplace. By shifting the focus from degrees to skills, recruiters can give equal opportunities to a wider range of candidates. This not only helps to break traditional biases and stereotypes but also creates a more dynamic and innovative work environment.

Another perk of skills-based hiring is the efficiency it brings to the hiring process. Instead of spending hours sifting through resumes, recruiters can quickly identify the core skills and competencies required for a specific role. This streamlined approach saves time, energy, and resources for both employers and job seekers.

What's more, skills-based hiring can have a positive impact on employee engagement and satisfaction. When individuals are hired based on their skills, they have the opportunity to excel in their areas of expertise. This boosts confidence, job satisfaction, and overall performance, leading to happier employees and a more productive workforce.

So, how can organizations implement skills-based hiring successfully? Well, it starts with identifying the key skills and competencies needed for each role. By clearly defining what skills are required, employers can target their recruitment efforts and attract candidates who possess those specific abilities.

Of course, no transition is without its challenges. One of the main hurdles when adopting skills-based hiring is resistance to change. Many organizations have been following traditional hiring practices for years, and convincing them to shift their mindset may take some effort. It's important to educate stakeholders about the benefits of this approach and showcase success stories from other companies that have embraced skills-based hiring.

Addressing potential skills gaps and the need for ongoing training and development is yet another factor to keep in mind. While skills-based hiring allows organizations to focus on relevant skills, it's important to have strategies in place to bridge any gaps and provide opportunities for employees to continuously upgrade their skills.

Looking ahead, the future of skills-based hiring is promising. As technology advances, we can expect to see more sophisticated skill assessment tools emerging. These tools will provide even more accurate insights into candidates' capabilities, helping organizations make even better hiring decisions.

Skills-based hiring is revolutionizing the recruitment landscape, bringing a host of benefits to both employers and job seekers. By focusing on skills rather than solely relying on degrees and experience, organizations can create a more inclusive, efficient, and engaged workforce. Whether you're a job seeker or an employer, it's time to embrace skills-based hiring and unlock the true potential of talent.

In today's digital age, where technology is all around us, it's essential to understand the basics of cybersecurity. Whether you're watching cat videos on YouTube, connecting with friends on social media, or doing research for school projects, it's crucial to know how to keep our kids safe online. So, let's dive in and explore the world of cybersecurity together!

But first, what exactly is cybersecurity? Well, it's like a virtual shield that protects you from online threats. Just as you lock your front door to keep intruders out, cybersecurity helps you safeguard your personal information and keep hackers at bay.

Now, you might be wondering, "Why is cybersecurity important for me?" In today's interconnected world, cyber threats are constantly evolving. Cybercriminals may try to steal your personal information, like passwords or credit card details, through various tricks. That's why it's essential to understand common cyber threats, like malware, phishing, social engineering, and password attacks.

So, how can you protect your personal information online? Let's find out!

First and foremost, let's talk about passwords. We know, remembering multiple passwords can be tough. But it's important to use strong and unique passwords for all your accounts. Avoid common words or personal information in your passwords and consider using a trusted password manager to make your life easier.

Another great way to secure your accounts is by enabling two-factor authentication. It's like having a secret code on top of your password. So even if someone manages to get hold of your password, they won't be able to access your accounts without the code generated on your smartphone or email.

Speaking of personal information, it's crucial to keep it safe. Be careful about sharing personal details like your address or phone number online, especially in public forums or on social media. And remember, if a stranger on the internet asks for your personal information, it's a big red flag! Always trust your instincts and avoid sharing sensitive information.

Social media is an amazing way to connect with friends and share cool stuff, but it can also have its risks. Set your privacy settings wisely to control who can see your posts and information. Also, never accept friend requests from people you don't know in real life and if something seems suspicious or too good to be true, it's best to steer clear of it.

Unfortunately, cyberbullying is a sad reality in today's digital world. If you ever experience cyberbullying, don't keep it to yourself. Reach out to a trusted adult, like a parent or teacher, who can provide guidance and support. Remember, you're never alone, and there are people who care about your well-being.

Now, let's talk about general internet safety. When browsing the web, be cautious of suspicious websites. Stick to trusted sources for information and double-check facts before accepting them as true. It's essential to build your critical thinking skills and be aware of fake news.

When it comes to online communication, use email wisely. Be cautious about opening emails from unknown senders, especially if they contain suspicious attachments or ask for personal information. Always double-check the email address to ensure it's legitimate. And hey, never click on links from unknown sources. Hover over the link to see the actual web address it will take you to before clicking on it.

Keeping your devices secure is also crucial. Make sure to update your computer, smartphone, or tablet regularly. These updates often include security patches that fix vulnerabilities hackers can exploit. Additionally, consider using reputable antivirus software to protect your devices from malware and other digital nasties.

Oh, and let's not forget about rogue applications and stick to official app stores when downloading apps. Read reviews and check the developer's information before clicking that download button and always think twice before granting permissions to an app, especially if it wants access to your contacts, camera, or microphone.

To protect your devices from theft or loss, create a strong password or PIN to lock your device. And if your device supports it, enable remote tracking or wiping features. This way, if you misplace your device or someone steals it, you can locate or erase its contents remotely.

Now, let's talk about online gaming! It's a fun way to connect with friends and explore virtual worlds. But remember, not everyone online has good intentions. Protect your personal information while gaming by using usernames instead of your real name. Avoid sharing personal details or your location with other players. And if you encounter inappropriate behavior, report it to the game's moderation or support team.

Lastly, let's touch on cybersecurity etiquette. As responsible digital citizens, it's important to respect others' privacy online. Understand the terms of service when using websites or apps, and only accept agreements you truly understand. Treat others online as you would in real life, with kindness and respect. And always think before you post or share something, considering how it might impact others.

In conclusion, understanding cybersecurity basics is crucial in today's digital world. By following these simple practices, you can protect yourself online and navigate the digital landscape safely. Remember, cybersecurity is a continuous learning journey, so stay updated and share your knowledge with others. Together, we can create a safer online environment for everyone. Keep exploring, stay curious, and be cyber savvy!

In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, John Jones found himself facing a difficult challenge - the transition into the cybersecurity career field without experience. His background consisted of experience in IT Operational Support, Customer Service, and project experience in a healthcare infrastructure. However, his journey took a turn when he discovered CyberUp, an ally that helped him break through the barriers and also provided a structured path to success.

John is an aspiring cybersecurity professional who struggled with the initial difficulty of entering the cybersecurity field, hindered by a lack of experience. This common stumbling block for many aspiring cybersecurity professionals became the drive for finding a program that could bridge the gap and open doors to organizations willing to invest in training new talent.

The turning point for John was CyberUp, a program that served as more than just a stepping stone; it was a catalyst for his growth. CyberUp not only connected him with First Bank, an organization ready to nurture and develop new talent but also provided a structured framework that became instrumental in maintaining focus and setting goals in his cybersecurity career.

As an Information Security Analyst with First Bank, John's favorite project involves testing Insider Threat Management tools. This not only showcases his technical ability but also highlights his creative thinking in enhancing the effectiveness of security measures. Beyond the apprenticeship program, John is focused on furthering his education and professional development. His goals include studying for certifications, exploring different product suites, diving into networking topics, and gaining insights into lean Six Sigma.

One of the persistent challenges in cybersecurity that John noticed is that effective communication is important, especially to those without a technical background. John recognizes this challenge and emphasizes the need to convey the 'why' behind security policies in a way that resonates with non-technical individuals. This skill, he believes, is crucial in making cybersecurity principles understandable and actionable.

While John doesn't have a favorite quote or affirmation, his philosophy in cybersecurity revolves around patience with the learning curve and being humble. John acknowledges that the field is vast and ever-changing, and embracing the constant learning process is key to success. John also advises prospective CyberUp candidates, emphasizing the importance of honing written and verbal communication skills. In cybersecurity, clear articulation of technical concepts is as vital as the technical knowledge itself.

John's apprenticeship experience instilled confidence in his new career and gave him a sense of direction. The collaborative learning environment with fellow apprentices stood out to him as the best part of the experience. The camaraderie and shared growth within the program created a community for John that fueled motivation and mutual support.

As we embark on a new year, a season of hopefulness and optimism surrounds us. Individuals and organizations alike are contemplating the future, anticipating the exciting developments that will unfold in the next 12 months. At CyberUp, we are no exception. Our goals and budget were established in December, and we stand "ready" to face whatever challenges and opportunities the year may bring.

In my pursuit of personal and professional growth, I recently tuned in to The Mel Robbins Podcast. There, she offered a perspective on planning for the upcoming year that deeply resonated with me. Robbins emphasized the importance of understanding where we've been to chart a course forward. Without a clear understanding of what is and isn't working, creating a plan for abundance becomes a challenging task. Just as the quality of directions shapes your journey, this insight struck a chord with me for various reasons.

Reflecting on CyberUp's journey from 2023 into 2024, four core themes emerge: interesting, planning, scaling, and welcoming. Let's delve into each of them:

Interesting:

For many, 2023 was undeniably "interesting." The global landscape is rife with complexities—wars, inflation, social challenges, and more. With the added uncertainty of an election year in 2024, individuals and companies find themselves reassessing everything. While I won't delve into the details, acknowledging the interconnectedness of our shared experiences on this planet is crucial. Despite the weight of external factors, we must remain flexible and resilient in pursuing our mission. As Dori wisely advises, "Just keep swimming."

Planning:

Entering 2024, CyberUp recognized the need for an updated strategic plan. Our previous plan, crafted over three years ago, needed revisiting given the evolving landscape of cybersecurity, apprenticeship, and STEM. Before delving into the planning process, we took the time to assess the current state of cybersecurity offerings nationally. This comprehensive analysis informed our unique value proposition—focusing on both youth and adult programming, offering flexibility in training, and maintaining a high-quality candidate pool.

Scaling:

With over 15 years of nonprofit experience, I've engaged in numerous strategic planning efforts. Unlike traditional expansion models, CyberUp's strength lies in a proven organization and model that works. While continual process improvement remains a priority, our core focus is on scaling—maximizing every aspect of our program to be as effective as possible for a broader audience. Central to this effort is enhancing employer engagement, a critical aspect of workforce programs like ours.

Welcoming:

A blend of the last two themes, "Welcoming" serves as a call to action. Our plan includes a challenge to companies nationwide: join us in creating a movement toward adopting a skills-based hiring model. This challenge aims to encourage companies to rethink and reimagine their hiring practices, fostering diversity, equity, and a thriving work environment. Stay tuned for more details on this initiative in the coming months.

As we look ahead, the Board of Directors and the CyberUp team are committed to our current programs and have set ambitious goals to elevate the cybersecurity workforce in St. Louis and beyond. Our role, along with that of other organizations, in shaping the talent pipeline is crucial. Join us in our mission to elevate the cybersecurity workforce.

Over the next three years, we aspire to:

• Ignite the passion for cybersecurity in 3,500 youths through our PowerUp program
• Develop the cybersecurity skills of 525 individuals through our LevelUp Training program
• Transform 244 jobs into apprenticeships and skills-based hiring programs
• Inspire 280 volunteers to invest their time in those we serve

While the year and our plan are just beginning, here's to your ambitious goals for 2024! We invite you to share your aspirations with us. We are excited to kickstart the year, grateful for the support received over the years, and ready to make a positive impact with your collaboration. Welcome to the realm of skills-based hiring—we're delighted to have you on board

Charles Long Jr. is a determined lifelong learner who wanted more in life. Charles started as a Janitor at a local casino however, he knew he wanted more for himself and his family and that is when he decided to pursue a new career in cybersecurity. With some assistance from CyberUp, he dove into the challenge and proved his determination. That's when his adventure with CyberUp kicked off, providing him not just with a roadmap but also with a boost of confidence throughout his apprenticeship program.

According to Charles, CyberUp wasn't just about learning technical skills – it played a crucial role in building up his self-confidence. In the world of cybersecurity, confidence is your secret weapon. For Charles, "Details Matter" is not just a saying – it's a way of life in the cybersecurity realm. It's about that meticulous mindset, the precision, and the undivided attention to detail that makes all the difference.

Of course, Charles didn't skate through his journey without facing challenges. Self-confidence was a bit of a struggle, and visualizing himself in a cybersecurity role was an uncomfortable feeling for him due to his lack of confidence. He constantly questioned himself and wondered if he could even do the job and do it well. But with CyberUp’s assistance offering constant support and assurance, Charles conquered those fears and came out on top.

So, what's the value Charles got from CyberUp? In his own words, "a career." It’s not just about learning the ropes; it's about CyberUp opening doors to a fulfilling career in the ever-evolving field of cybersecurity. Charles reflects on some of his favorite projects during his apprenticeship with Object Computing. He found joy in working on audits, getting that ISO certification stamp, and diving into various Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) initiatives. As an Associate IT Engineer, he's not just contributing; he's jumpstarting security programs and playing a key role in his company's success.

Moving forward, Charles has his eyes set on continuous learning and hints at potential roles like a forensic analyst or a cybersecurity pro testifying in court. Despite some initial hesitation, Charles is all in for becoming a mentor and contributing to CyberUp's youth program, PowerUp. Public speaking might not be his forte, but his willingness to volunteer and share his experiences shows a genuine commitment to giving back and helping others find their way in the world of cybersecurity.

In a nutshell, Charles Long's journey is more than a success story – it's an inspiration for anyone eyeing a career in cybersecurity. From janitor to Associate IT Engineer, his story is a testament to the transformative power of determination, continuous learning, and a bit of mentorship.

As CyberUp continues to empower individuals like Charles, it's not just changing lives; it's reshaping the entire landscape of cybersecurity.

Elliott Thompson's journey from military service to a flourishing career in cybersecurity is a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and lifelong learning. Following his retirement from the Air Force, Elliott found himself joining the 43% of veterans who leave their first civilian job within their first year. While reflecting on what he wanted to do next, he kept revisiting a unique opportunity that was lingering at the back of his mind – CyberUp’s cybersecurity apprenticeship program.

Military Roots

The Thompson family has a strong military legacy. Elliott’s mother, an Army veteran, and his father, a Marine veteran, provided a strong foundation of discipline, values, and a love for their country. Inspired by his older brother's Navy service, Elliott committed to joining the Air Force in 2001. The tragic events of September 11th further solidified his resolve to serve his nation. Throughout his twenty-year military career, Elliott explored a range of specializations, including transportation, logistics, contract operations, and supply chain management. His experiences instilled discipline and an acute attention to detail, qualities that would prove essential in his future career.

Transition to Cybersecurity

Navigating the transition from military to civilian life proved to be more challenging than Elliott expected. The corporate world was not what he anticipated and he quickly recognized his initial plan was not sustainable long-term. Although he first learned about CyberUp more than a year prior during the Transition Assistance Program (TAPS), Elliott still found himself intrigued with the idea of a cybersecurity apprenticeship. He decided to explore a new career in the world of cybersecurity through CyberUp’s LevelUp Training and registered apprenticeship programs.

The CyberUp Experience

“CyberUp gave me the opportunity to be an apprentice with Centene and my smile has not faded since I started this position. Every day is a challenge yet every day is everything that I hoped to be doing,” says Thompson. The CyberUp program provided Elliott with the guidance and support needed to make the transition to cybersecurity. As an apprentice at Centene, he is leveraging his military background to quickly adapt to the intricacies of cybersecurity. “Elliott’s dedication, excellence in delivery, and professionalism have quickly established him as a key member of our team,” stated Brian Peterson of Centene.

“CyberUp is dedicated to supporting military veterans, spouses, and dependents as they pursue careers in cyber,” said CyberUp Executive Director, Tony Bryan. “Our mission is to elevate the cybersecurity workforce by igniting curiosity, developing talent, and transforming career pathways. Everyone benefits when veterans and their families bring their commitment to mission and core values to the cyber community.”

Elliott's story is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of continuous learning. It serves as an inspiring example for others transitioning from military to civilian life and seeking to redefine their careers. His success story underscores the importance of seizing opportunities, following one's passion, and adapting to change with determination.

In the digital age, where information is power and data breaches loom large, having a robust cybersecurity team is non-negotiable for businesses. However, the path to assembling such a team is not a one-size-fits-all scenario. Companies often face the dilemma of whether to buy, build, or borrow talent for their cybersecurity endeavors. In this blog post, we’ll explore these approaches, weighing the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision. In this week's LevelUp Cyber Live, we covered the concept of building, buying, and borrowing talent. 

Buying Talent: The Fast-Track Solution

When time is of the essence and expertise is urgently needed, buying talent seems like the logical choice. This involves recruiting seasoned cybersecurity professionals externally, sometimes at a premium cost. The advantages include immediate access to expertise, specialized skills, and an existing network of industry connections. However, the downsides encompass high expenses and potential cultural integration challenges within the existing team.

Building Talent: Cultivating Homegrown Experts

Building talent refers to investing in existing employees or new recruits and nurturing their skills through training, certifications, and hands-on experience. This approach fosters loyalty, ensures a deep understanding of the company’s systems and values, and is often cost-effective in the long run. On the flip side, it demands time, patience, and consistent investment. Additionally, the evolving nature of cybersecurity requires continuous learning and adaptation, making ongoing training a necessity.

Borrowing Talent: Collaborative Solutions for Flexibility

Borrowing talent involves outsourcing specific cybersecurity tasks or projects to third-party experts or agencies. This approach offers flexibility, scalability, and cost-efficiency. Organizations can access a pool of specialized skills without the burden of long-term commitments. However, communication challenges, potential security risks associated with sharing sensitive information, and the need for stringent vendor management are key concerns.

The Hybrid Approach: Striking the Right Balance

In reality, many organizations opt for a hybrid approach, combining elements of buying, building, and borrowing talent. This strategy allows for flexibility, enabling companies to scale their cybersecurity efforts according to their needs. For instance, they may hire experienced professionals for critical roles, invest in training programs for existing employees, and collaborate with external experts for specialized projects.

Apprenticeship Intermediaries Role in Buying, Building, or Borrowing

Apprenticeship intermediaries play a pivotal role, providing a unique solution that integrates seamlessly with the concepts of buying, building, or borrowing talent. These intermediaries act as conduits, connecting businesses with skilled professionals and fostering an environment where novices can learn from seasoned experts. For companies opting to buy talent, apprenticeship intermediaries curate a pool of pre-trained cybersecurity specialists, ensuring a swift and efficient onboarding process. In the context of building talent, these intermediaries facilitate structured apprenticeship programs, where aspiring cybersecurity professionals can gain practical experience under the guidance of mentors. This not only nurtures homegrown talent but also creates a sustainable pipeline of skilled individuals tailored to the organization’s specific needs. Moreover, for those looking to borrow talent for specific projects, apprenticeship intermediaries offer a roster of agile, adaptable apprentices who can seamlessly integrate into collaborative ventures. By bridging the gap between theory and practice, these intermediaries not only support businesses in their talent acquisition endeavors but also contribute significantly to the growth and dynamism of the cybersecurity industry as a whole. Their role is not just transactional; it's transformational, shaping the future of cybersecurity by empowering both businesses and budding professionals to thrive in the digital landscape.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice

The choice between buying, building, or borrowing talent for your cybersecurity team depends on various factors such as budget, timeline, existing skill sets, and the nature of your cybersecurity needs. A careful evaluation of these factors, coupled with a clear understanding of your organization’s goals, can guide you toward the most suitable approach.

Ultimately, a successful cybersecurity team is not just about the individuals involved but also the collaborative spirit, continuous learning, and adaptability ingrained within the organization’s culture. By investing in the right mix of talent acquisition strategies, businesses can build a resilient cybersecurity ecosystem that safeguards their digital assets in an ever-changing threat landscape.

In the pursuit of cybersecurity excellence, the key lies in making informed decisions, leveraging the strengths of your team, and remaining agile in the face of evolving challenges. Whether you choose to buy, build, borrow, or blend these strategies, the ultimate goal remains the same: fortifying your digital fortress against the myriad threats lurking in the virtual realm.

Security teams face mounting challenges including budget cuts, staff shortages, and an overwhelming volume of alerts. It's a high-stress environment demanding efficient use of limited resources. A recent article from CSO Online outlined the daily struggles of these teams - it's clear they're bogged down. But in focusing on the problems, the author overlooked a major opportunity: apprenticeship programs.

The article highlighted specific tasks that consume security teams, like responding to alerts, reviewing suspicious emails, and compiling audit data. To identify which activities are slowing your team down, regularly ask which tasks they would delegate to new staff if given the chance. Bringing on apprentices could provide real relief in these areas. With proper training, they can efficiently triage alerts to reduce senior staff workloads. Apprentices will competently handle initial phishing investigations too. And they can prepare audit materials while learning systems firsthand. 

Before launching any program, we get to know our employer partners in depth - their culture, talent needs, and key initiatives. This diligent discovery process lets us hand-pick applicants who will hit the ground running and create value immediately through their contributions.

For example, CyberUp recently placed a cohort of apprentices across various departments with Centene Corporation, including roles in security operations, incident response, and compliance. This allowed Centene to bring in extra support and new perspectives tailored to their unique needs.

The CyberUp apprentice at the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis performed so well that they were converted to a permanent position months ahead of schedule. This demonstrates how apprentices can quickly become invaluable contributors. The apprentice rotated through several departments which not only taught them more in a short amount of time but also increased the entire team's bandwidth. Their passion and accelerated on-the-job learning resulted in their early promotion.

At Barry Wehmiller, a CyberUp apprentice assists with managing quarterly phishing simulation campaigns. This gives Barry Wehmiller’s security team valuable help with this crucial awareness activity while developing new talent. The apprentice handles administrative tasks like campaign scheduling, reporting, and training coordination. They also gained hands-on experience developing phishing email templates and landing pages. This freed up a significant amount of time for the security team and allowed them to focus on higher-value tasks.

These real-world examples show the power of apprenticeships for cost-effectively expanding security teams. By leveraging CyberUp's expertise, leading organizations have driven productivity gains and strengthened their talent pipelines.

Apprenticeships are a low-risk investment because of their low cost and flexible structure. They provide capable help for essential tasks. Bringing in new perspectives and energy also reinvigorates teams. It’s a win-win - you cultivate junior talent while alleviating pressure on veterans. 

Rather than waiting for others to solve staffing problems, security managers should take the initiative and build apprentice programs now. Start small if needed, but get talent in the door. Give them hands-on work that drives learning. Doing so may uncover your next rockstar while taking pressure off the senior team.

It's time to take control and build the future security team you need. CyberUp makes launching an apprenticeship program easy, and the long-term benefits of an expanded, well-rounded team make this investment in new talent worthwhile.