Jobs in Cybersecurity, Opportunities and Challenges Abound

Cybersecurity careers: Cybersecurity Awareness Month continues

Jobs in cybersecurity play a critical role in ensuring the safety and security of data in the face of incredible challenges. This week, in honor of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, we're taking a closer look at cybersecurity careers: what's in demand, what these careers provide, and why qualified experts are so important.

A career that connects personal interests with professional growth

"I wanted something that would be challenging and fall in line with some of my interests and hobbies," says Tony Haggerty, who entered the field of IT about a decade ago.

Today Haggerty serves as a Security Engineer for Locknet® Managed IT. "IT has many different areas to potentially specialize in. Security drew me in because it’s something not many people think about and has a good mix of challenge and maintenance."

With the employment landscape in constant flux, cybersecurity careers remain a constant, with high demand for qualified workers.

"IT is booming everywhere. If you care about the quality of your work and practice good communication skills you won’t struggle finding a good job," explains Haggerty.

Why cybersecurity careers should top your list

There are many reasons why job seekers might consider a career in cybersecurity. Here are just a few.

• Cybersecurity makes a difference. There are few if any aspects of everyday life that don't depend on cybersecurity to continue to function safely and securely. Jobs in cybersecurity support our country's national security as well as our economic wellbeing.
• Jobs in cybersecurity pay well and are plentiful. Cybersecurity job openings can be found nearly anywhere you choose to live, including right here in the Upper Midwest and 7 Rivers Region. Experts show there are more than 300k cybersecurity job openings in the country today, and the U.S. Department of Labor says IT and cybersecurity careers will continue to be among the fastest-growing opportunities available in the next 10 years, while also ranking among the highest-paid. Even entry-level positions are competitively compensated.
• Cybersecurity careers allow for professional growth, so you will always be learning and developing new skills. Worried about stagnating in some jobs? If you want a career that is challenging, often-changing, and allows for professional growth, cybersecurity may be right for you. Haggerty agrees, "IT can be an excellent career path for anyone who loves to learn and enjoys a good challenge."
• Cybersecurity jobs require a variety of backgrounds, skillsets, and training. "Technical Colleges and Entry Level Certifications are very helpful with getting started," says Haggerty. There are a number of ways to enter cybersecurity and IT, among them: two and four-year degrees, certifications, real-life experience, and apprenticeships.

Ready to explore jobs in cybersecurity?

If you're ready to learn more about the opportunities available in our region in the field of cybersecurity, look no further. Locknet, an EO Johnson company, often has opportunities available for a wide variety of roles. Check out our current IT and cybersecurity career opportunities, and come back often to find the role that's right for you. With offices in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa, there is bound to be a job in cybersecurity in a place you would be pleased to call home.