By the Numbers

52%

of CyberForward participants were unemployed at the start of the program

38%

of CyberForwardparticipants do not have a bachelors degree

53%

CyberForward BIPOC Participation

Cyber Security For Your Unique Needs

I Want to Learn

We look for candidates with specific aptitudes rather than specific experience or backgrounds. You don’t need technical skills to start a career in cyber security. If you’re a quick learner, work well in teams, and think logically, you have what it takes.

I'm Looking to Hire

As companies are facing a cyber security resource shortage, experienced and qualified talent is harder to come by. Supplement your recruiting efforts with CyberForward and avoid the resource and time costs of traditional hiring activities.

I'd Like To Be a Partner

Our partner network makes this program possible. From helping to identify students, to providing scholarship funding, or supplying projects for participants, we are always looking for new partners. Help make a difference!

What is CyberForward Academy?

CyberForward Academy is an ecosystem of people working together today to develop the talent of cyber security tomorrow. This partner-enabled professional development program identifies and rapidly develops effective, job-ready cyber security professionals. 

Our mission is to solve the cyber security resource shortage and bridge the skills gap. CyberForward Academy is designed to tackle both of these issues by removing common roadblocks to employment while connecting organizations to a large pool of untapped talent.

How It Works

Phase 0

Introductory Roadmap Sessions

Connect with us to learn more about the program and how it can help you start your cyber career.

Phase 1

Identifying and Sourcing Candidates

We source candidates from partners such as United Way, Women Helping Women, Schools, and other community groups, as well as individuals who are interested in entering the cyber security industry.

Phase 2

Foundations Class

Participants take part in a multi-week foundational training course taught by security professionals. Participants are given background information on the industry and skills they need to be successful in an organization.

Phase 3

Work-based Learning

Participants complete projects with mentorship from security professionals. They receive hands-on training in some of the most critical roles in cyber security.

Phase 4

Project Work

After completing the foundation and work-based learning phases, participants move on to capstone project work highlighting everything they've learned while working alongside a security team.

PHASE 0

Introductory Roadmap Sessions

Connect with us to learn more about the program and how it can help you start your cyber career.

PHASE 1

Identifying and Sourcing Candidates

We source candidates from partners such as United Way, Women Helping Women, Schools, and other community groups, as well as individuals who are interested in entering the cyber security industry.

PHASE 2

Foundations Class

Participants take part in a multi-week foundational training course taught by a member of CISOSHARE’s security team. Participants are given background information on the industry and skills they need to be successful in an organization.

PHASE 3

Hands-On Training

Selected participants complete projects with mentorship from security professionals. They receive hands-on training in some of the most critical roles in cyber security.

PHASE 4

Project Work

After completing the foundations class and hands-on training, participants move on to project work with organizations looking to hire. High school and college students typically move on to simulated projects, while work-eligible adults move on to potentially paid work.

Benefits

CyberForward Academy helps everyone involved, from participants, to community partners, to hiring organizations.

Help Solve the Increasing Wage Gap

More opportunities for skilled individuals in the community helps them bring home a livable wage.

Built-in Diversity and Inclusion

Our community partners help us source talent from underserved groups, providing opportunities for success.

Relevant Skills are Acquired

Participants learn both technical and interpersonal skills needed for success in different cyber security roles.

Job-Ready Cyber Professionals

Participants in CyberForward Academy have the knowledge and experience for in-demand cyber security jobs.

Empowering Individuals and Organizations

Learn more about the success of our CyberForward interns with one of our first supporters and hiring partners, Pacific Life.

CYBERFORWARD AND PACIFIC LIFE

Securing Organizations of All Sizes

“Working with members of the program and watching the human element shine through in everything they do is inspiring and energizing. We’re excited to watch the program continue to grow and to provide additional support and opportunities with future participants.”

 

Scott

Director GRC, Pacific Life