Per Scholas Survey Highlights Cybersecurity as Main Tech Concern for Businesses
Per Scholas Survey Highlights Cybersecurity as Main Tech Concern for Businesses
A recent survey conducted by Per Scholas has unveiled critical insights into the concerns of technology executives and workforce challenges in the United States. According to the research, nearly two-thirds (64%) of C-Suite technology leaders view cybersecurity threats as the most significant challenge facing U.S. businesses over the coming decade. This revelation, published on June 24, 2025, emphasizes not only the escalating risks in the cyber landscape but also the pressing need for enhanced data center infrastructure capable of managing sensitive information effectively.
The survey, carried out by Talker Research and involving 1,000 cybersecurity and data center executives, indicates a troubling environment rife with threats. A whopping 56% of organizations reported actively defending against hacking attempts, while 43% confessed to experiencing data breaches and 14% acknowledged suffering successful hacks. These statistics underscore the urgent need for businesses to bolster their cybersecurity measures and enhance the skills of their workforce accordingly.
Brittany Murrey, the Executive Vice President of Talent Solutions at Per Scholas, highlighted the risk-reward dichotomy in talent management. "Heightened cyber risks directly translate into significant talent demands, especially given that there are nearly 500,000 open cybersecurity roles nationwide," she stated. The survey results reveal that cybersecurity skills (53%), along with adaptability and problem-solving (52%), AI proficiency (42%), and digital/technical skills (38%), are crucial for future hiring. This emphasizes the need for accessible training programs to equip the workforce.
Interestingly, the survey also indicates that a substantial 43% of executives regularly hire entry-level talent. This trend suggests that skills training is a pragmatic solution for quickly addressing the rising demand for skilled workers. Programs offered by Per Scholas, which are provided at no cost to participants, deliver industry-recognized training in Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing, and Data Engineering. These initiatives aim to prepare learners with the technical and professional skills necessary for the job market.
In a related survey of 1,000 U.S. tech employees, 88% expressed their willingness to pursue additional training in cybersecurity, suggesting an average of 7.1 hours a month. However, fewer than half (48%) felt that their companies were “very prepared” for cyberattacks, exposing a significant preparedness gap. Among employee concerns, phishing attacks (52%) emerged as the top worry, followed by external threats (42%) and a lack of encryption (41%).
This surge in cybersecurity apprehension can be linked to the increased reliance on artificial intelligence. A striking 95% of executives and 89% of employees acknowledged the vital role that data centers play in managing extensive customer and client information, with AI being identified by 66% as a key driver of growth. Additionally, the integration of AI and emerging technologies (48%) and the challenges of conforming to relevant regulations (35%) rank as major concerns for leaders looking ahead.
As Murrey poignantly stated, "The exponential growth of the data center underscores its critical role in our economy." Yet, the research highlighted a significant confidence gap in addressing future demands, with 57% of C-Suite executives and only 37% of employees feeling equipped to meet these challenges. Executives have pinpointed essential skills for fulfilling future demands, including cybersecurity (82%), problem-solving (79%), and communication (61%). However, recruiting, retaining, and upskilling talent remain ongoing hurdles to overcome.
Per Scholas is driving impactful changes in the landscape of tech training. Celebrating 30 years of operation, the organization is keen on expanding accessibility to high-growth technology careers and promoting economic mobility nationwide. Since its inception in 1995, Per Scholas has helped over 30,000 individuals gain tech skills at no cost, leading to nearly $2 billion in increased personal earnings. Learners, on average, earn three times their pre-training wages in their first roles following the program.
In conclusion, as the tech industry grapples with increasing responsibilities around cybersecurity and emerging technologies, the onus is on organizations to facilitate robust training opportunities. By investing in skill development and fostering an environment of continuous learning, businesses can ensure that they are better equipped to confront the challenges posed by a rapidly evolving cyber landscape.