Mission43 Launches a New Cybersecurity Certification Pathway in Partnership with SANS Institute
Mission43 is proud to partner with SANS Institute to establish a talent pipeline for military veterans and their spouses to obtain skills in cybersecurity that can empower a future career and improve cybersecurity for employers and communities in Idaho.
Over a period of 6 months, selected Mission43 members will have the opportunity to complete 3 GIAC certifications that provide the highest and most rigorous assurance of cybersecurity knowledge. Successful Academy participants receive a full scholarship, academic and technical mentorship, and career services valued at over $20k.
This is a multi-stage program designed to provide a reliable pathway for high-potential veterans and military spouses to enter the cybersecurity workforce.
“It’s our goal to provide Idaho’s exceptional veterans and their spouses with equally exceptional opportunities to advance their quality of life and employment options after the military. These are the programs that make it happen.”
The first cohort will launch in November 2022, with applications opening July 2022. The ideal candidate to participate in the first cohort is a transitioning military member, veteran, or spouse that is active in the Mission43 community, plans to make a career change within the next year, has an aptitude and passion for the cybersecurity industry, and has little to no civilian Information Technology experience.
demand for idaho-based cyber professionals
The cybersecurity field continues to experience a wide talent gap. Growth in opportunities have leveled nationwide but here in Idaho, an exponential increase in demand for qualified personnel persists (according to a 2020 report released by the Idaho Department of Labor).
Cyber opportunities in Idaho have grown by at least 160% since 2015, grew by 28% in 2020, and continue to rise. For transitioning service members, veterans, and their spouses interested in making a career change, right now is the perfect time to consider a career in cyber/information security.
Sourced from Idaho Department of Labor
aptitude and certifications lead to employment
With major industries like aerospace, agriculture, defense, energy, and manufacturing, Idaho is well positioned to maintain its increasing need for cybersecurity professionals. The real struggle, however, is finding the talent to fill those open positions.
Employers that would have traditionally sought out employees with college degrees are relaxing their recruiting requirements. The right combination of aptitude and professional certification(s) can open doors to entry-to-mid level positions with some of the highest earning potential currently in the market.
Whether you’re a military spouse or a transitioning military member, you know what it’s like to have to start over. Sometimes a new career field can mean a critical blow to your family finances. We’ve been there. Entry level cybersecurity salaries are trending much higher than other industries. In June 2022, the average starting salary for cybersecurity related jobs in Idaho was about $62k annually, with the majority ranging between $43k and $78k. There is unlimited potential for skills advancement and increased pay.
Table view of reported entry-level cyber/information security wage range in Idaho, sourced from ZipRecruiter, 2022
Building a Program Idaho Employers need
There are many different areas of cybersecurity and finding a direct path from unemployed to hired can be confusing. We’ve consulted with industry-leading experts from organizations like Mandiant and PlexTrac to identify the biggest talent gaps in Idaho and what type of skills employers are looking for to fill those roles.
“The Mission43 Cybersecurity Certification Course isn’t just theory, it’s a certification path with a direct correlation to employment in Idaho. ”
Currently in Idaho, the top unfilled cybersecurity roles include: Information security analysts, penetration testers, security engineers, information assurance managers, and vulnerability management specialists.
It’s our goal to make a measurable impact on the talent shortage in cyber across the state of Idaho.
COntact us to learn more!
Are you a Mission43 member interested in learning more about cybersecurity? An employer looking to expand their talent pool and fill roles with qualified course participants? Reach out to us today and an education specialist will respond soon!