Veterans are the key to the cybersecurity talent shortage

Veterans are the key to the cybersecurity talent shortage

It’s no secret that the IT industry faces a chronic shortage of cybersecurity professionals. The 2023 World Economic Forum reported a shortfall of 3.4 million cybersecurity experts needed to support today’s global economy, over 700,00 in the U.S. alone.


This challenge has dire consequences: (ISC2) also found that 70% of organizations do not have the needed cybersecurity staff to compete, and over half of the employees at these organizations rated the risk of a cyberattack from shortages as moderate or extreme.


But, as organizations search for cybersecurity talent, some are tapping ex-military personnel. From technical aptitude to experience and work ethic, veterans bring compelling skills to cybersecurity and are a welcome addition to many resource-strapped IT teams.


Unique operational experience

Veterans have been trained to face difficult decisions, rapidly changing conditions, scarce resources, and even life and death. Their ability to perform under pressure pays dividends in the cybersecurity arena — veterans are typically proactive, make fast decisions, and can execute dispassionately if required.


Several elements of military training foster these capabilities, including:


Respect for procedures: The strict adherence to procedures and protocols found in the military can help maintain stability and predictability in a cybersecurity environment.


Attention to detail: Military training reinforces meticulous attention to detail — a valuable approach in cybersecurity, where inattention and small errors can lead to significant problems.


Follow the chain of command: Military personnel are taught to embrace the chain of command and execute orders to the best ..

Support the originator by clicking the read the rest link below.