Cybersecurity: The Skills Gap as a Double-Edged Sword

On one side, there’s the pressure. Cybersecurity professionals are navigating an unrelenting wave of threats, from ransomware to supply chain vulnerabilities. Burnout in the industry is accurate, and when people leave, it deepens the gap even further.

As you wisely point out, opportunity lies on the other side. The field isn’t looking for a single archetype of tech-savvy person; it’s opening doors to people with diverse skills—analytical thinkers, problem solvers, and even creatives who can think like attackers to anticipate threats.

Broadening the Pathways

Traditional routes like computer science degrees aren’t the only entry point anymore, and that’s where the potential for transformation lies. Bootcamps, certifications, and mentorship programs give people quicker, more accessible ways to enter the field. You mentioned veterans and career changers—groups that bring unique perspectives. For instance:

• Veterans: Their experience with discipline and structured problem-solving aligns perfectly with cybersecurity operations.
• Career Changers: Teachers, journalists, or anyone with investigative or analytical skills often excel in threat analysis or risk assessment roles.

Even neurodivergent individuals are being recognized as an untapped talent pool. Many have a natural affinity for pattern recognition and problem-solving—skills that are invaluable in cybersecurity.

Cybersecurity Awareness for All

One angle I find exciting is the democratization of cyber literacy. If everyone—from a CEO to a high school student—understands the basics of cybersecurity, the burden doesn’t fall solely on the experts. For example, training programs in cyber hygiene could prevent many breaches that occur due to human error.

What You Can Do

As a beginner intrigued by this space, your curiosity is the perfect starting point. Cybersecurity is one of the few fields where learning is often free and accessible. Resources like:

• Free cybersecurity courses on platforms like Cybrary or TryHackMe.
• Capture the Flag (CTF) challenges to gamify your learning.
• Joining online communities like the r/cybersecurity subreddit or local meetups to connect with like-minded learners.

If you ever find yourself doubting whether you belong in the field, remember that cybersecurity thrives on diversity. Every new perspective adds another layer of defense. The field isn’t just about protecting systems—it’s about safeguarding the way we live, work, and connect in the digital age. Maybe your fresh voice is exactly what’s needed. ??