You may wonder, “Why does someone want to work in cybersecurity? Is it worth it?”. The short answer is yes, absolutely! The number of data breaches and OT cyber security threats like ransomware and zero-day exploits has increased quickly. The result? It has created a huge demand for cyber security experts.
According to the 2024 ISACA State of Cybersecurity Report, over 50% of organizations indicate they have unfilled cybersecurity roles. They are rushing to fill roles and look for skilled talent. Can you imagine that many positions remain vacant for months?
And guess what? This creates amazing career opportunities for individuals like yourself. Yes, this could be an enticing chance if you are considering a new career direction or shifting from a different industry. As numerous organizations indicate substantial shortages in their cybersecurity teams, there are over 520,000 additional positions related to cybersecurity available to be occupied in North America (according to the ISC2 Cybersecurity Workforce Study).
Pursuing a career in cybersecurity might be your next great opportunity. The good news is that the field embraces people from various backgrounds, regardless of whether you hail from business, liberal arts, or different areas.
With numerous career options available, including positions in security compliance, governance, or incident response, you can discover something that matches your interests. Adopting cybersecurity not only results in a fulfilling profession but also is crucial for safeguarding essential data in our linked society.
10 Great Benefits of an OT Security Career
1. Job Opportunities Are Outstanding
With the swift progress of our world through digital changes like IoT, cloud computing, and AI, there is a high demand for professionals in cybersecurity. These technologies require strong security measures, and you will contribute to safeguarding essential data such as personal details and intellectual assets.
With a high demand and a supply of only 85% for every 100 positions, you can be confident that opportunities will remain plentiful.
As there is an abundance of thieves seeking those crown jewels, organizations of every size want to safeguard themselves as effectively as possible. The more advanced ones have progressed from prevention to actively identifying and anticipating threats.
Technologies like machine learning and automation will assist in addressing certain issues organizations encounter in safeguarding their data and infrastructure, yet humans won’t be substituted in the near future.
2. Entry-Level Roles Are Available
Breaking into the cybersecurity field is doable. Some roles, like information security analysts, show a promising projected job growth of 33% for the next decade.
With certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or CySA+, you can get your foot into a rewarding career. You’ll find roles that offer substantial salaries, enabling you to start your professional journey on a solid financial footing.
For example, the CompTIA Security+, the leading entry-level certification, boasts an average salary of $99,446 in the U.S. The CompTIA CySA+, primarily possessed by cybersecurity analysts, boasts an average salary in the U.S. of $110,929.
3. Career Progression Is Strong
With cybersecurity, scaling the career ladder is entirely possible, especially if you have a knack for leadership and communication skills. Whether you’re interested in technical roles or management, the sector offers paths in compliance, incident response, and security architecture, among others. The demand for senior roles ensures your efforts toward advancement will be well-rewarded.
4. Compensation Is Attractive
A career in cybersecurity pays off well, too. Great news, right? Depending on your path, certifications like CISM or CISSP will boost your earnings substantially. Some salaries reach beyond $150,000! Additional certifications, such as those for cloud security or ethical hacking, are also highly valued.
- CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+): Tops the list with a nice $165,661 average salary. Serious money for serious security pros.
- ISACA’s CISM (Certified Information Security Manager): You’ll typically get around $156,420 for the role of a trusted cyber overseer.
- CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) from ISC2: No surprise that security experts bring in about $151,860 a year.
- Project Management Professional (PMP): Certified PMs get roughly $136,121 annually.
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) by EC-Council: expect to receive about $134,217 a year for this position.
- ISC2’s Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP): This position will get you close to $128,811.
- CompTIA CySA+ (Cybersecurity Analyst): Analysts with this certification land on average $110,929.
- CompTIA Security+: Solid foundation for security folks at about $99,446 a year.
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA): Networking pros make around $93,071 on average.
- CompTIA Network+: Network specialists earn roughly $89,746.
5. The Profession Is Highly Transportable
No matter where you are, security expertise is needed. Work locations are diverse, including many remote opportunities that cater to digital nomads. Whether on the coasts or in up-and-coming tech cities, your cybersecurity skills are a ticket to employment nearly anywhere.
6. Cybersecurity Is For All, Not Just for Tech Enthusiasts and Nerds
Cybersecurity involves much more than technical coding or server maintenance. The field includes roles like risk management and governance, which require diverse backgrounds. With a strong command of IT, you can showcase your skills in ways that don’t fit the traditional tech stereotype.
7. A Lot of Opportunities Across Many Sectors
Cybersecurity professionals can thrive in any industry — aerospace, film, environmental conservation, or beyond. By safeguarding valuable data, you’ll contribute significantly to whichever sector you’re passionate about.
8. Continuous Learning Experience
Technology evolves quickly, and so will your role in cybersecurity. Whether it’s adapting to new cloud technologies or integrating AI insights, you’ll always be refining your skills to tackle new challenges. For those who love learning, this dynamic environment keeps you on your toes.
9. Making a Positive Impact
A profession in cybersecurity offers fulfilling rewards as you take an essential part in safeguarding people and businesses from online dangers. Your efforts help ensure the safety of personal data and vital services, making this a career that marries purpose with professional benefits.
10. A Really Interesting and Highly Rewarding Job
The realm of cybersecurity is filled with challenges that many professionals find satisfying. With an 80% job satisfaction rate among current professionals, based on surveys, it’s a path filled with growth, problem-solving, and impactful work that many enjoy. From honing your technical skills to advancing within your organization, the satisfaction and excitement never wane.
