Common cybersecurity job roles are: incident handling and response, audit and compliance, firewall/IDS/IPS skills, intrusion detection, analytics and intelligence, access/identity management, application security development, advanced malware prevention, and cloud computing/virtualization. While these are the most common skills, most cybersecurity roles require a handful of these skills plus others.
Companies of all types have need for cybersecurity, from traditional tech companies (Apple, Cisco, Intel) to e-commerce (Amazon, e-Bay), to finance (US Bank, Travellers Insurance), to health care (United Health Care, HealthPartners) to traditional retailers (Target, Best Buy). In addition to these traditional large employers, there is a vigorous spectrum of smaller companies as well as consulting jobs available. Finally, government and the public sector have significant unmet cybersecurity job openings.
As of December 2024, CyberSeek.org reports 5,682 open cybersecurity positions in Minnesota and 457,398 nationwide. The demand for cybersecurity professionals is widespread, with employers across industries struggling to fill roles at all levels. From hospitals and government agencies to universities with extensive computing infrastructures and non-profits managing a handful of computers and a public website, the career opportunities in cybersecurity are vast and varied. Entry-level cybersecurity specialists can expect a starting salary of approximately $88,149, reflecting the high demand for skilled professionals in this critical field.
Cybersecurity careers appeal to problem-solvers, lifelong learners, and individuals with a strong sense of ethics and attention to detail. Personality traits common to cybersecurity professionals include investigative interests (think Sherlock Holmes), openness to experience, rational decision-making (puzzle solving), and self-efficacy (understanding personal limits). Successful professionals are often curious, technologically inclined, and resilient under pressure, thriving on challenges and the fast-paced, ever-evolving nature of the field. Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate with diverse teams are also crucial, as cybersecurity requires translating technical concepts for various audiences. Whether you're motivated by protecting critical systems, tackling complex problems, or making a meaningful impact, cybersecurity offers a range of opportunities for people with diverse skills and interests.
We provide training workshops, certifications, consultation on cybersecurity strategies, incident response support, research opportunities, and access to state-of-the-art tools and technologies.
Yes, we offer a variety of training programs and certifications, such as CompTIA Security+, Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), among others.
Yes, we host and support participation in cybersecurity competitions like capture-the-flag (CTF) events, which are great for building skills and networking with peers.
We offer career guidance, internships, job placement support, networking opportunities, and access to industry mentors to help you build a strong foundation for a cybersecurity career.
Yes, we partner with industry leaders and regularly host various events, employer meet-and-greets, and resume workshops.
We offer tailored security assessments, workshops, and ongoing support to help organizations strengthen their cybersecurity posture.
Yes, we collaborate with academic institutions, government agencies, and private organizations to conduct cutting-edge research on cybersecurity topics like threat intelligence, AI in security, Post-Quantum Cryptography, and Blockchain.
We host events like cybersecurity awareness activities, public seminars, and workshops to educate and support our local community in staying safe online.