Cy Says Blog & Podcast

In today's rapidly evolving job market, traditional education pathways are no longer the sole route to career success. Apprenticeships have emerged as a valuable alternative for individuals seeking hands-on training, real-world experience, and a clear path to promising career opportunities. Central to the effectiveness of apprenticeships is the role of an often overlooked yet crucial player: the apprenticeship intermediary. In this blog, we will delve into the significance of apprenticeship intermediaries, their responsibilities, and the impact they have on shaping the future of skilled workforces.

Defining Apprenticeship Intermediary:

An apprenticeship intermediary can be understood as a facilitator, connector, and advocate for both apprentices and employers. Essentially, it acts as a bridge that links aspiring apprentices with suitable businesses or organizations offering apprenticeship opportunities. This intermediary plays a pivotal role in ensuring that apprenticeships are well-structured, relevant to industry needs, and beneficial for all parties involved.

Key Responsibilities of an Apprenticeship Intermediary:

1. Identifying Opportunities: One of the primary responsibilities of an apprenticeship intermediary is to actively seek out and identify potential employers willing to participate in apprenticeship programs. By building and maintaining strong relationships with businesses across various industries, they can ensure a diverse range of apprenticeship options for aspiring candidates.
2. Matching Apprentices and Employers: An apprenticeship intermediary carefully assesses the skills, interests, and career goals of aspiring apprentices. Simultaneously, they analyze the requirements and demands of employers. Using this information, the intermediary successfully matches the right apprentices with suitable employers, leading to better outcomes for both parties.
3. Curriculum Development: To ensure that apprenticeships provide relevant and valuable learning experiences, intermediaries collaborate with employers to develop robust training curricula. By tailoring the training to meet industry demands, the intermediary enhances the apprentices' employability and prepares them for real-world challenges.
4. Navigating Administrative Procedures: The administrative tasks associated with apprenticeships can be intricate and time-consuming. Apprenticeship intermediaries assist employers and apprentices in navigating through paperwork, compliance requirements, and funding applications, streamlining the entire process.
5. Mentorship and Support: Throughout the apprenticeship journey, intermediaries provide mentorship and support to both apprentices and employers. They address challenges, mediate conflicts, and ensure a smooth transition from training to employment.

The Impact of Apprenticeship Intermediaries:

Apprenticeship intermediaries play a transformative role in fostering a skilled and adaptable workforce. Their contributions extend beyond the individual level, influencing entire industries and economies:

1. Reduced Skills Gap: By identifying the needs of employers and providing tailored training, apprenticeship intermediaries help bridge the gap between the skills employers seek and the skills job seekers possess. This ultimately reduces the skills gap and increases the number of employable candidates.
2. Higher Retention Rates: Apprenticeships facilitated by intermediaries often result in higher retention rates for both employers and apprentices. This is because the intermediary's involvement ensures better alignment of expectations and increased commitment from all parties.
3. Economic Growth: A well-functioning apprenticeship system supported by intermediaries enhances economic growth by supplying industries with a highly skilled workforce. This, in turn, improves productivity and innovation, leading to stronger economies.

How CyberUp Serves Our Partners:

At CyberUp, we offer apprenticeships to develop specific technical skills. These programs focus on new workers and aim to increase the number of qualified individuals entering entry-level roles in the cybersecurity sector. We play a crucial role in promoting and implementing apprenticeship programs in targeted industry sectors. Working closely with businesses, workforce organizations, and educational institutions, our goal is to raise awareness, drive adoption, and facilitate the successful implementation of apprenticeships. Serving as a link between job seekers, employers, apprentices, and education providers, we provide comprehensive management and support throughout the apprentices' journey.

Benefits of working with CyberUp:

• Support: We provide comprehensive support to our apprentices. Coordinating training instruction with workplace supervisors, offering follow-up services, monitoring attendance, and addressing challenges that may arise.
• Management: As the Apprenticeship Sponsor, we take full responsibility for managing all Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship Standards. This includes assigning appropriate on-the-job learning tasks, providing mentorship, ensuring completion of related technical instruction (RTI), and meeting competency standards. Employers can partner with us without needing a "government contract."
• Knowledge Sharing: Our role as an intermediary allows us to replicate and share effective best practices, enhancing apprenticeship outcomes for all stakeholders. We contribute to the smooth operation of programs and play a vital role in the overall success of workforce development strategies.
• Staffing Assistance: We assist employers in quickly and easily expanding and diversifying their talent pool through our apprenticeship programs. By working with us, employers can avoid the complexities of designing, registering, and launching apprenticeships, allowing them to focus on their core business.

Conclusion:

The role of an apprenticeship intermediary cannot be overstated in today's labor market. Their dedicated efforts in connecting aspiring apprentices with employers and supporting them throughout the apprenticeship journey are key to building a competent and prosperous workforce. As apprenticeships continue to gain recognition for their potential to transform careers, the role of these intermediaries becomes ever more critical, shaping a brighter future for skilled workers and industries alike. For more information or to partner with us, please contact our team at [insert contact information]

Starting a career in cybersecurity is similar to the excitement and anticipation of starting a new school year. As students prepare for new academic challenges and experiences, aspiring cybersecurity professionals immerse themselves in the world of digital security and data protection. In this blog we will explore the parallels between transitioning to cybersecurity and starting school, highlighting steps needed to navigate this dynamic career and succeed in cyberspace.

1. A Scary First Day: Acquiring Basic Knowledge

When a student walks into a classroom on the first day of school, they encounter a realm of unfamiliar subjects. Similarly, entering the cybersecurity world can be overwhelming in terms of technical jargon, tools, and concepts. Embrace the initial jitters and focus on acquiring foundational knowledge. Enroll in cybersecurity classes, read industry blogs, and become familiar with cybersecurity frameworks.

2. Building Relationships: Networking in the Cyber Community

Just as school is an opportunity to make friends, getting into cybersecurity gives you the opportunity to network with industry professionals. Join cybersecurity forums, attend conferences, and connect with mentors who can guide you on your journey. Networking opens doors to new opportunities and valuable insights.

3. Problem-solving Skills: Embracing Challenges

School presents students with various challenges and encourages them to develop their problem-solving skills. Cybersecurity professionals face similar scenarios when dealing with constant threats. Embrace challenges with an inquisitive mind and determination to find solutions.

4. Learning from Mistakes: Embracing Continuous Improvement

Mistakes are a natural part of any learning process. In school, students learn from mistakes to improve their academic performance. Similarly, cybersecurity professionals must have a continuous improvement mindset that will help them investigate security breaches, understand root causes, and implement strategies to prevent future occurrences.

5. Teamwork and Cooperation: Playing Nice in the Sandbox

Group projects and teamwork take place in schools, teaching students the value of collaboration. In cybersecurity, collaboration between teams such as threat analysts, IT professionals, and management is critical to effectively defend against cyber threats. Learning to play nice in the Sandbox (pun intended) is a transferable skill that applies to everything. 

6. Being Curious: Embracing Lifelong Learning

Successful students have a curiosity and a thirst for knowledge. It’s important to stay on top of the latest trends, threats, and technologies in cybersecurity.  Engage in continuous learning, pursue certifications, and explore new aspects of cybersecurity to stay ahead in the field.

7. Graduation Day: Achieving Cybersecurity Milestones

Just as graduation is a milestone for students, cybersecurity professionals celebrate milestones as they advance in their careers. Whether earning certifications, leading security projects, or getting a promotion, every step is worth celebrating.

The transition to cybersecurity is similar to the excitement and challenges of starting a new school year. Embrace the journey with a thirst for knowledge, a commitment to collaboration, and a passion for problem-solving. As you navigate the cybersecurity field, remember that, like school, it’s a lifelong learning process. Embrace each challenge, learn from mistakes, and celebrate your achievements as you embark on a rewarding career in cybersecurity. 

As the new school year begins, parents play a vital role in ensuring their children's safety not only in the physical world but also in the vast digital landscape. With online learning, social interactions, and entertainment becoming more prevalent, it's crucial to equip parents with the knowledge to protect their kids while they navigate the virtual realm. In this blog, we'll share five essential tips for parents to keep their children safe online during the new school year.

1. Open Communication and Digital Literacy

Establish open communication with your children about their online activities and experiences. Encourage them to share any concerns or encounters that make them uncomfortable. Moreover, promote digital literacy by teaching them about online privacy, recognizing potential risks, and discerning trustworthy sources of information.

2. Set Clear Boundaries and Screen Time Rules

Create clear boundaries for internet usage and set age-appropriate screen time limits. Discuss guidelines for using social media, playing online games, and visiting websites. Striking a balance between digital interactions and real-world activities fosters healthier habits and reduces potential risks.

3. Implement Parental Control and Safety Tools

Leverage parental control and safety tools available on devices and applications your children use. These tools enable you to filter content, restrict access to certain websites, and monitor online activities. Familiarize yourself with the features and customize them to suit your child's age and needs.

4. Teach Online Stranger Danger

Educate your children about the concept of "online stranger danger." Advise them not to share personal information, such as their address, school name, or contact details, with strangers online. Encourage them to avoid accepting friend requests or messages from unknown individuals.

5. Be a Positive Online Role Model

Lead by example and be a positive online role model for your children. Demonstrate responsible internet usage, empathy, and respect in your own digital interactions. Emphasize that the same principles of good behavior apply online as they do in the real world.

As the new school year unfolds, parents must equip themselves with the tools and knowledge to protect their children's safety in the digital realm. By fostering open communication, promoting digital literacy, setting clear boundaries, implementing parental control tools, teaching online stranger danger, and being a positive online role model, parents can empower their kids to navigate the virtual landscape safely and responsibly. Together, let's ensure that our children's online experiences are enriching, positive, and secure as they continue their educational journey in the new school year.

As we embrace a new school year, the safety and security of our students' information take on greater importance than ever before. With an increasing reliance on technology for education and administration, schools and teachers must prioritize cybersecurity practices to protect sensitive data from potential threats. In this blog, we'll explore proactive measures that schools can implement to keep their students' information safe and maintain a secure digital environment.

1. Conduct Cybersecurity Training for Staff

A robust cybersecurity practice starts with a well-informed staff. Organize regular training sessions for teachers and school staff to educate them about potential cyber threats, safe online practices, and how to recognize phishing attempts. This knowledge empowers staff to protect not only their own information but also that of their students.

2. Implement Strong Password Policies

Enforce strict password policies for all school-related accounts and systems. Require passwords to be unique, complex, and regularly updated. Utilize multi-factor authentication (MFA) whenever possible to add an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access.

3. Secure Data with Encryption

Ensure that all sensitive student information, including grades, medical records, and personal details, is encrypted. Encryption converts data into unreadable code, making it significantly harder for cybercriminals to access or decipher the information, even if they breach the system.

4. Regularly Update and Patch Software

Stay vigilant about updating software and applications on all devices used by the school. Regular updates often contain security patches that address vulnerabilities in the system, reducing the risk of exploitation by cyber attackers.

5. Back Up Data Frequently

Frequent data backups are crucial in the event of a cyber incident or hardware failure. Set up automated backups for all critical systems and ensure that the data is stored in a secure, off-site location.

6. Monitor Network Traffic

Employ robust network monitoring tools to keep an eye on incoming and outgoing traffic. Detecting unusual or suspicious activities promptly can help identify potential cyber threats and mitigate them before they escalate.

7. Restrict Access to Sensitive Information

Limit access to student information on a need-to-know basis. Only authorized personnel should have access to sensitive data, and their permissions should be regularly reviewed and updated as necessary.

8. Secure Remote Learning Environments

If the school supports remote learning, ensure that the virtual classroom platforms and collaboration tools used are secure and privacy-compliant. Train teachers and students on best practices for online safety during remote sessions.

9. Develop an Incident Response Plan

Prepare an incident response plan that outlines the steps to be taken in case of a cybersecurity breach. A well-structured plan can help minimize damage and speed up the recovery process.

10. Foster a Cybersecurity Culture

Promote a cybersecurity-conscious culture within the school community. Encourage students, teachers, and parents to report any suspicious activities promptly. Emphasize that cybersecurity is a shared responsibility.

As schools embrace the digital age, safeguarding student information must be a top priority. By implementing cybersecurity practices, such as conducting regular training, enforcing strong passwords, encrypting data, and developing incident response plans, educational institutions can significantly reduce the risk of cyber threats. By fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness, schools can create a safe and secure digital environment for their students and staff, enabling them to focus on the joy of learning and teaching without compromising their privacy or safety. Let this school year mark a new chapter in strengthening our commitment to safeguarding our educational community's digital well-being.

Sterling's journey into the world of cybersecurity has been one of passion, hard work, and dedication. His love for technology dates back to the early days of personal computing, and he has spent over a decade working in the semiconductor industry, keeping up with the latest advancements in the field through tech publications like Byte magazine.

As a cybersecurity professional, Sterling has a broad interest in various methodologies, but his passion lies in counterintelligence. His time in the Army working in electronic warfare tactical systems repair fueled his interest in technology, and he has since become an expert in his field.

In addition to his professional work, Sterling is a tech enthusiast who enjoys building PCs, configuring microcomputers like raspberry pi's, and tinkering with home automation devices. His office is a veritable tech wonderland, filled with gadgets and computer equipment that he loves to experiment with.

Sterling's journey into the cybersecurity industry was not without its challenges. As a newcomer, he faced a barrage of new learning objectives and had to quickly adapt to a new and fast-paced industry. Fortunately, Sterling had the support of CyberUp, which provided him with invaluable resources and a network of fellow apprentices to connect with.

With CyberUp's help, Sterling was able to stay focused and make significant strides in his career. He completed CompTIA Security+ training and embarked on an apprenticeship with Centene, where he was able to apply his skills and knowledge to real-world scenarios.

Today, Sterling is a highly skilled and sought-after cybersecurity professional, with a deep understanding of counterintelligence and a passion for keeping up with the latest advancements in his field. He is an inspiration to others in the industry, and his dedication and hard work are a testament to the incredible opportunities available in the cybersecurity field.

Sterling's journey into the world of cybersecurity is a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work, dedication, and a passion for technology. His love for the field has driven him to become an expert in the field, and his journey is a testament to the incredible opportunities available in the cybersecurity industry.

                                                                                                                                                                   

In an ever-evolving job market, apprenticeships have emerged as a powerful pathway for individuals to gain practical skills, hands-on experience, and valuable industry connections. Apprenticeships are an alternative form of education that allows participants to learn while they work, combining on-the-job training with classroom instruction. For those looking to secure a successful career, apprenticeships offer a promising route.

CyberUp has been working alongside industry-leading cybersecurity organizations for the past 6 years. In fact, we were one of the first organizations in the country to launch an apprenticeship program in this field. Since 2017, over 400 new cybersecurity-specific apprenticeship programs have been created across the nation. With over 600,000 unfilled cyber roles, there is an opportunity for anyone interested, although the abundance of programs has caused some confusion in defining the model. As more programs launch, the challenge is conveying the basics clearly while getting employers excited about the benefits.

What is an Apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a structured training program that enables individuals to learn and develop essential skills while actively participating in the workplace. It combines on-the-job training under the guidance of experienced mentors with classroom-based instruction on relevant topics. Apprenticeships provide a form of "earning while learning," allowing participants to gain practical experience and knowledge in their chosen field. Programs typically range from 1-6 years and are offered in hundreds of occupations.

Key Components of an Apprenticeship

1. On-the-Job Training: This hands-on training is the hallmark of apprenticeships. By working directly with seasoned professionals, apprentices gain invaluable real-world skills and insights they wouldn't get solely from a classroom. For example, a computer programming apprentice may shadow senior coders, assist on projects, and be guided in coding applications themselves.
2. Mentorship: Apprentices are paired with mentor(s) who provide guidance throughout their learning journey. These mentors serve as supervisors, coaches, and role models - offering support, sharing expertise, and giving constructive feedback to help apprentices improve. The ongoing mentor relationships create a nurturing yet challenging environment.
3. Classroom Instruction: In addition to on-the-job learning, apprentices take classroom courses to supplement their practical training. These may be at a college, vocational program, or within the hiring company. Coursework covers industry fundamentals, regulations, technology use, and more. The combination of hands-on and academic learning builds comprehensive understanding.
4. Certifications and Credentials: The successful completion of an apprenticeship program results in industry-recognized certifications and credentials. This validates an apprentice's skills and enhances their career prospects. For example, a machinist apprentice may earn Journeyman status, while a dental assistant would become a Certified Dental Assistant.

Benefits of Apprenticeships

1. Gain Valuable Skills: Apprenticeships provide intensive training and practice in all facets of a profession. The skills gained are transferable and highly useful across one's career. For instance, an accountant apprentice will learn complex regulatory standards as well as client management abilities.
2. Increased Employability: Apprentices gain qualifications and credentials that make them extremely employable. Many earn certifications that set them apart. Additionally, they prove themselves on the job. Over 90% of apprentice program graduates immediately find employment.
3. Earn While You Learn: Apprentices earn wages from day one, allowing them to make money while learning. This removes the financial burden of full-time education. They also gain real workplace experience - a huge advantage over solely classroom-based learning.
4. Set Up for Success: The intensive training and acculturation into a profession sets apprentices up for future success. They build skills gradually and are guided by experts in navigating career pathways. The transition from apprentice to professional role is smooth and natural.

Apprenticeships offer incredible opportunities to launch meaningful, rewarding careers. The earn-while-you-learn model provides a superior education compared to sole classroom learning. Upon completion, apprentices emerge fully prepared and qualified to excel in their chosen profession. Whether you are a recent high school graduate or a mid-career professional, an apprenticeship is worth strong consideration.

In our upcoming blog series, we will explore apprenticeship intermediaries - organizations that help facilitate these programs. Stay tuned to learn about the value they provide both apprentices and employers!

David's story is a testament to the fact that old dogs can indeed learn new tricks. With his business background and three degrees - a bachelor's in economics, a master's in business administration, and a master's in accounting - he worked in intelligence analysis for the Army for seven years until he was medically discharged. He then found work as a bookkeeper and accountant for a construction company but was eventually laid off when the company ran into financial difficulties.

Determined to find a recession-proof occupation, David began attending job fairs to explore his options. At one such event, he met our LevelUp coordinator, who introduced him to the CyberUp apprenticeship program. This proved to be a turning point for David, as he had been struggling to find work on his own.

David's hobbies were weightlifting and learning. He spent a lot of his free time studying on Udemy and keeping up with cybersecurity news on YouTube and LinkedIn groups. He soon discovered that online resources could be valuable assets in his quest to learn new skills.

Partnering with CyberUp led to David being hired as a cybersecurity analyst with Centene, but he quickly pivoted to become a cloud engineer. He found his work environment to be supportive and inspiring, with regular check-ins from our apprenticeship coordinator. Although working remotely was a new experience for David, it gave him more time to spend with his wife and to cook during his lunch breaks.

When asked for advice for future apprentices, David emphasized the importance of hitting the ground running and using downtime to learn new skills. He also stressed the value of lifelong learning and expressed his goal of furthering his cybersecurity education and becoming a cloud security architect.

Overall, David's story is a reminder that it's never too late to start over and learn new things. With determination and the right resources, anyone can achieve their goals.


                                                                                                                                                                   

Sara's journey into cybersecurity began as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Like many others, Sara found herself in a difficult position when her school mandated in-person learning. She needed to find a new job that would allow her to care for her daughter with special needs while also providing a fulfilling career. Fortunately, Sara's passion for continuous learning and her desire to keep moving forward propelled her into the world of cybersecurity.

With a background in teaching, Sara had many skills that could be transferred to the cybersecurity industry. As a teacher, Sara learned how to communicate effectively, work under pressure, and manage her time efficiently. She also had a keen understanding of how to break down complex concepts into more accessible pieces, which proved to be an invaluable skill in the field of cybersecurity.

After attending a training seminar, Sara was inspired by a speech given by our LevelUp coordinator. The coordinator spoke about the numerous career opportunities in cybersecurity, which opened Sara's eyes to the possibilities that lay ahead. She enrolled in our LevelUp Training program, where she learned valuable skills such as risk management, compliance, and information security. With CyberUp's support, Sara landed a remote role performing compliance duties that allowed her to continue caring for her daughter.

Sara's success in cybersecurity did not come easily, as she had to balance her studies with her family obligations. Despite the challenges, Sara remained determined to succeed and stay active. She would go biking or running whenever she could and subscribed to different tech wikis, radio stations, and social media feeds to stay up-to-date with cybersecurity news.
                                                                                                                                                                   

One of the things Sara appreciated most about her experience with CyberUp was the professional development opportunities. She participated in the Monthly Mentor Meetups, which allowed her to network with other professionals in the field. She also valued the monthly check-ins with our apprenticeship coordinator, who provided guidance and support throughout her journey.

Looking ahead, Sara has set her sights on earning her Google IT certification and AWS certification, as well as being promoted from associate to analyst. She knows that cybersecurity is a sink-or-swim field, but she remains steadfast in her determination to succeed. Sara's mantra, "Just keep swimming," serves as a reminder that persistence and continuous learning are critical to achieving success in any field.

Sara's journey into cybersecurity is a testament to the power of determination and continuous learning. Her passion for staying active and her desire to better herself both personally and professionally allowed her to transition into a new career successfully. With the support of CyberUp, Sara was able to overcome the challenges and build a bright future for herself and her family.

Why Free Cybersecurity Resources Don’t Work

In 2020, we launched a cybersecurity competition for middle and high school students called PowerUp Cyber Games. Capture the Flag competitions (or CTFs) are a great way for students to learn about cybersecurity in a fun, low-stakes environment, earn awards and recognition among their peers, and determine if cyber is a career they want to pursue. After 3 years of running our CTF, we had hundreds of students across the country involved. It would seem that our program was, by most metrics, extremely successful. However, we were plagued with a nagging question: Are we helping the students who need help, or giving more resources to students who already have all of the resources they need to succeed?

The issue with the CTFs, we found, is that they rely entirely on a teacher or other adult to make it successful for their students. For example, with PowerUp Cyber Games, we created lesson plans, practice packets, and a virtual practice gym, we hosted live streams to cover the topics, and we made an online portal for students to ask questions and play relevant games. But still, the success of the teams came back to their coach–usually a teacher–and whether or not they pushed this content out to their students or encouraged them to use it. And with all that has been happening in education over the past few years and the mass exodus of teachers who are overworked and burnt out, how could we expect them to take more onto their overflowing plates? 

Typically, the students who are the most successful in the CTFs come from districts that had the funding and resources to dedicate to cybersecurity education. This is not the majority of districts. In fact, according to a study by Cyber.org in 2020, only 18% of school districts even offer cybersecurity classes. Missouri has only recently started implementing general computer science graduation requirements for high school. The fact is that most public school districts in America are still way behind when it comes to computer science education. There is a huge pile of free, “easy to use” cybersecurity resources out there for teachers to incorporate into their lessons, but again, this requires that teachers commit time and energy outside of their already packed schedules to learn and prepare these lessons. So, how do we teach students about this important topic while also lightening the load on teachers? 

This is the question that led us to develop our new PowerUp program.

A New Approach to Cybersecurity Education

Starting in Fall 2023, we will be entering several St. Louis Public School District elementary and middle schools to teach students as young as Kindergarten about cybersecurity. Rather than simply giving teachers a lesson for them to prepare and teach, we will be using industry volunteers to deliver the lessons. Teachers will only be expected to stay in the room while our volunteers explore cybersecurity with the class through hands-on activities and relevant, age-appropriate lessons. Volunteers will have the chance to share their experiences and use their expertise to answer questions as they arise. 

CyberUp has developed activities for every age. The program aims to teach students how to recognize and avoid potential online threats. It encourages students to think critically and make informed decisions while using the internet. 2nd graders will learn about talking to strangers online and how to hide their personal information from these people. 3rd graders will get an introduction to how the Internet works with an activity that gets them out of their seats and working together. 7th graders can expect to learn all about cyber crimes and a peek into a career in cybersecurity. These are just some of the many topics that will be covered during our volunteers’ time in the classroom.

Creating Accessible Pathways for All Students

The intended impact of our new PowerUp program is twofold: to educate the youth about their personal online safety, and to inspire students to pursue cybersecurity as a career.

We know that almost all data breaches are caused by human error. The general public uses the Internet every day for work, school, and entertainment. Between phones and computers, we are connected to the Internet at all times. But do most people know what to do if they receive a phishing email? Does the average Facebook user have a secure password? Would your employees download something to their work computer without a second thought? The need for more informed digital citizens has never been more important. We teach our kids not to cross a busy street or to take candy from strangers in vans, but kids aren’t playing in the streets without supervision anymore. They are, however, playing online games and watching YouTube, and chatting with people they met on apps. By teaching them about online threats and how to stay safe while they use the Internet early, we can protect our children and educate the future workforce on avoiding data breaches.

Going back to one of the major questions we had to ask ourselves while we were hosting PowerUp Cyber Games, who are we helping with our services? If our goal as a non-profit is to fill the over 750,000 open cybersecurity jobs with diverse candidates, we should be putting our efforts into help those communities who wouldn’t receive these types of services otherwise. The school districts with plenty of funding for computer science and parents who can afford to pay for their students to participate in CTFs and clubs don’t need our help. The districts that can’t afford enough Chromebooks for all of their students, that struggle to find enough substitute teachers to fill the vacancies every day, and have students who are struggling at home as well as in school–those are the districts we want to help.

If you ask kindergarteners what they want to be when they grow up, they probably won’t say security analyst or information system security officer. In fact, most high school seniors aren’t aware that these jobs even exist. And by that age, they’ve mostly made up their minds about what kind of career they want. They don’t know that they could be making an entry-level salary of $80,000 or that they can get that job without having to go to college. They don’t know that they could start accumulating generational wealth in a career field that’s constantly growing and changing and offers endless opportunities regardless of their background or where they live. It’s not their fault that they don’t know all of this–nobody has told them! That’s why, at the same critical time in a child’s life that they are learning about jobs like firefighter and doctor and teacher, they should be learning about tech jobs, too. And that’s why we include our industry professionals in our program, to help guide and inspire these young people as they form their ideas of what their future could look like.

This is also why we are offering our program for free to public schools in the St. Louis area, as well as supplying all of the materials and volunteers for the lessons. Our activities don’t require technology, so even if a classroom has an outdated SmartBoard, those students can still learn about cybersecurity in a meaningful way. We also gift books and other resources to the classrooms we serve. Our goal with this new program is to make cybersecurity education accessible to all students and, in doing so, encourage a more diverse cyber workforce. 

If we want to fill cybersecurity jobs with capable, hard-working people, we have to start introducing these topics as young as possible. If we want to live in a more cyber-secure world, we have to step in early. Children are the future–so we need to invest in them if we want to change the world.

Traditional Hire vs Apprenticeship

Have you noticed how challenging it is to find new employees in the cybersecurity industry lately? It seems like we're constantly playing catch-up with the number of people needed. As of this morning, May 11, 2023, there are over 750,000 cybersecurity job openings listed on cyberseek.org, and that number continues to grow. It's a real struggle!

To compound the issue, hiring new employees through traditional methods can be prohibitively expensive, and the costs only rise as the demand for talent increases. However, there may be alternative approaches worth exploring. Have you ever heard of apprenticeships as a potential solution to our hiring problems? Let's delve into that and examine the expenses associated with hiring new employees.

The Cost of Traditional Hires

Traditional hiring involves posting job advertisements, receiving applications, conducting interviews, and selecting candidates. This process can be quite costly, requiring businesses to invest time and money in various tasks, including:

• Job Advertisements: Companies must pay to post job advertisements on job sites or other platforms, and the advertising costs can vary based on the location and type of job.

• Recruiting Costs: Companies may also incur expenses associated with recruiting, such as hiring a recruiter or covering the costs of job fairs or other recruitment events.

• Screening and Interviewing Costs: Once the applications are received, companies must sift through them and conduct interviews with candidates. This process can be time-consuming and expensive, particularly if the company needs to cover travel expenses for candidates coming from out of town.

• Onboarding and Training Costs: Once a candidate is selected, the company must invest resources in onboarding and training the new employee.

The cumulative costs associated with traditional hiring methods can quickly reach $20K-$30K, or if you're fortunate enough to fill the position within a month of posting the job, around $16,999, as reported by James Elliot. Examining the cost breakdown is crucial.

The Cost of Apprenticeships

On the other hand, apprenticeships offer a cost-effective option for businesses. Apprenticeships involve hiring individuals with a work history and a passion for a new trade. Some of the benefits of apprenticeships include:

• No Recruitment Costs: Companies do not need to pay for job advertisements or recruiters when hiring an apprentice.

• No Screening Costs: Apprentices are already qualified and screened, saving the company time and money.

• Reduced Onboarding and Training Costs: Apprenticeships provide on-the-job training, allowing the apprentice to learn while performing the job.

• A More Skilled Workforce: Apprenticeships provide a structured learning environment that helps the apprentice develop job-specific skills and knowledge. This translates into a more skilled employee who can bring greater value to the company.

Why Apprenticeships are the Better Option

In addition to the cost savings associated with apprenticeships, there are other compelling reasons why they outshine traditional hires. Consider the following:

• Reduced Turnover: Apprenticeships provide apprentices with a structured learning environment and a clear career path, leading to increased job satisfaction and reduced turnover. According to a study mentioned in Apprenticeship USA, the average retention rate for apprentices is an impressive 93%.

• Better Cultural Fit: Since apprenticeships introduce individuals to the field, it allows for the cultivation of a well-aligned employee who fits seamlessly into your work environment. This, in turn, helps minimize conflicts in the workplace and fosters a positive team dynamic.

• A More Diverse Workforce: Apprenticeships play a crucial role in promoting workforce diversity by offering opportunities to individuals who may lack a traditional educational background or who come from underrepresented groups. By embracing apprenticeships, companies can tap into a broader talent pool and foster an inclusive work environment.

Conclusion

While traditional hires may initially appear more familiar and straightforward, the cost of employee acquisition can be exorbitant. Conversely, apprenticeships provide a cost-effective and invaluable alternative. By embracing apprenticeship programs, companies can create a workforce that is both highly skilled and diverse, effectively reducing turnover while providing a clear career trajectory for their employees.