Address livable wage gap 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.
“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