Florida itself has a shortage of 16,000 new tech jobs in 2021, citing a CompTIA study as reported by the Business Observer. Most of the growth is expected in IT. In Florida, we are seeing a shortage of IT user support specialists, software developers and Cybersecurity specialists. Demand for these workers has increased 190% over the past five years and is expected to grow in 2021. So, what is causing this shortage in IT talent?
What is Causing the Shortage in Cybersecurity Specialists?
Have you heard of Solar Winds? They are an IT management software company offering remote monitoring tools. During an update to their software, cyber criminals included a Trojan horse that gained access to government and public company’s network and sensitive data. For over 10 months, the cyber criminals sifted through millions of sensitive and proprietary files from companies like Microsoft and Amazon Web Services as well as many government agencies. It was only detected by a FireEye employee months later as the malware scandal began to unravel, according to Fast Company.
This is not to be outdone by Russian hackers that penetrated the Capital Pipeline on the East Coast. Colonial Pipeline transports over 2.5 million barrels of gasoline and jet fuel each day, according to Reuters. As consumers and companies scrambled to get some of the gasoline that was left, many waited in long gas lines or went without for the foreseeable future. Capital Pipeline was the victim of a ransomware attack. Ransomware is an attack that can encrypted sensitive data or network systems and only after a ransom is paid, usually in Bitcoin, the hackers give the company an encryption key to unlock their files. The good news that came of out this attack is that the government was able to recover a portion of the ransom that was paid, with the help of Cybersecurity specialists.
And the Cybersecurity threats don’t stop there. Months later, JBS Meat was the victim of a ransomware attack that cost them 11 million in cryptocurrency. And unfortunately, these attacks are not stopping in the foreseeable future. With the shortage of Cybersecurity specialists and the increase in successful Cybersecurity attacks, the world needs more Cybersecurity specialists to help thwart these ransomware and Trojan horse attacks.
How Do You Become a Cybersecurity Specialist?
So, how can you join the front lines in the cyber war and reduce the shortage of cybersecurity specialists? The best way to prepare for an entry level job in Cybersecurity is to get a degree in information technology with an emphasis in cybersecurity form Florida Technical College. This program introduces you to a variety of topics, such as assessing the security vulnerability of computer and network systems, various computer and network safeguarding solutions, and managing the implementation and maintenance of security devices, systems, procedures and counter measures. In the process, you will prepare for certifications that include CompTIA A+, Network+ and Security+. These certifications will prove your proficiency in information technology, network administration, and network security fundamentals that will inform your prospective employer that you have a passion for cybersecurity and the knowledge to join the front lines in this cyber war.
What are the Benefits of Attending an IT Degree Program?
There are many benefits to attending an IT degree program at Florida Technical College. From a quick start to a variety of information technology knowledge helping to build strong skills in Cybersecurity, graduating from Florida Technical College is the first step in a life-long career. This degree program can be completed in as little as 36 months, while attending full-time. You learn the knowledge and build the skills to become a Cybersecurity specialist. You also prepare for certifications in CompTIA, the most recognizable IT certification association in the world.
Some of the other benefits of this IT degree program include one-on-one attention from industry experienced instructors, helping close the shortage gap in cyber security specialists, small class sizes that help you build a network that support your career aspirations and career services that follow you throughout your career as a valuable alumnus of Florida Technical College.
Final Thoughts
If you have 36 months to learn the fundamentals of information technology, cryptography, network security, intrusion detection, digital forensics and ethical hacking, to name a few, then completing the IT degree program at Florida Technical College will start you on a journey toward a future forward career that will be in demand. Even with the current shortage in Cybersecurity specialists, the need is expected to grow 30 percent in the next several years. If you have ever dreamed about being a hacker, well ethical hacker, then this is the perfect opportunity for you to seize upon. Companies and governmental organizations need your help to identify vulnerabilities before the bad actors do, so start learning today.
Information Technology Degree Program
Ready to help fill the shortage of Cybersecurity specialists in Florida? The Bachelor Degree program in Information Technology with emphasis in Cybersecurity introduces you to a variety of topics, such as assessing the security vulnerability of computer and network systems, various computer and network safeguarding solutions, and managing the implementation and maintenance of security devices, systems, procedures and counter measures. As a graduate of the program, you will be prepared for an entry-level career as an information support analyst, junior ethical hacker, or network and security support analyst related jobs*.
Ready to move from the classroom to a career? Florida Technical College is here to help. Contact us to learn more about completing the information technology degree program at Florida Technical College.
*These examples are intended to serve only as a general guide of possible employment opportunities. There are many factors that determine the job an individual may obtain and Florida Technical College cannot guarantee its graduate any particular job. Some positions may require license or other certifications. We encourage you to research the requirements for the particular position you desire.
