As National Apprenticeship Week shines a spotlight on career development opportunities, it’s important to acknowledge that traditional apprenticeships aren’t the only route into the cybersecurity industry. With cyber threats growing exponentially, the demand for skilled professionals has never been higher. Fortunately, alternative training programs, such as academies, internships, and specialised upskilling initiatives, are providing essential pathways into this field.
The Need for Cybersecurity Talent
Research from the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) highlighted the urgency needed to address the cybersecurity skills gap. Nearly half (44%) of businesses report shortages in fundamental technical skills, with incident management gaps soaring from 27% in 2020 to 48% in 2024. Similarly, the UK National Audit Office has emphasised the necessity for government and private sectors to rapidly develop cybersecurity skills, knowledge, and culture to bolster resilience.
Apprenticeships and alternative training programs play an important role in equipping individuals with the practical expertise required to protect businesses and national infrastructure from cyber threats. Many professionals in the industry have benefitted from non-traditional routes into cybersecurity, benefitting from hands-on experience to accelerate their careers.
Beyond the Traditional Pathway
For many aspiring cybersecurity professionals, practical experience is just as crucial as theoretical knowledge. William Smith, now an Academy Consultant at Bridewell, initially pursued a cybersecurity course at the University of South Wales but found that he still had much more to learn. “I knew gaining hands-on experience in the field was essential. The Bridewell Academy offered the perfect blend of both, making it the ideal opportunity to kick-start my cybersecurity career,” he says. His journey highlights the importance of blending structured learning with real-world application.
Others, like Sabrina Wressell, Graduate Cyber Security Consultant at Bridewell, transitioned from completely different backgrounds. “My decision t ..
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