Strengthening Singapore's Deep Tech Workforce
In a groundbreaking move, CompTIA and SGInnovate have announced a pivotal partnership aimed at reinforcing the deep tech talent pipeline in Singapore. This collaboration is set to address the increasing demand for professionals skilled in artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity—a growing concern in today’s innovation-driven economy.
The two organizations have formalized their alliance through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which outlines a comprehensive suite of learning and upskilling initiatives designed to equip the local workforce with essential, industry-relevant skills. With CompTIA's esteemed certifications and SGInnovate's extensive network in the deep tech ecosystem, this partnership is strategically positioned to benefit aspiring tech professionals.
Meeting the Challenge of Tech Talent Demand
As the need for cybersecurity expertise surges, driven by an increase in AI-powered cyber threats, it has become crucial for Singapore to develop a workforce that can navigate this complex landscape. Juliana Lim, Executive Director of SGInnovate, emphasized that cultivating talent in AI and cybersecurity is now a national priority. “Our collaboration with CompTIA allows us to upskill individuals through a blend of preparatory workshops and formal certifications,” she stated. Both organizations are dedicated to bridging the gap between education and meaningful employment opportunities for Singapore’s talent pool.
One of the significant outcomes of this partnership is the launch of the
CyberReady+ Bootcamp. This program seeks to address the urgent need for cybersecurity professionals by introducing a strict, progressive learning pathway tailored for various audiences, including mid-career professionals and fresh graduates. The bootcamp is structured in three stages:
1.
Foundation: Participants will learn essential networking concepts, fundamental security controls, and core network defense principles.
2.
Intermediate: This stage focuses on the functioning of threat intelligence, vulnerability analysis, and Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) basics.
3.
Advanced: The final stage examines the blending of AI and cybersecurity, concentrating on threat-hunting techniques and securing AI-integrated systems.
Introducing SecAI+: A Revolutionary Certification
In tandem with the bootcamp, CompTIA unveiled the
SecAI+ certification, which is a global first focused on securing and responsibly integrating AI within cybersecurity frameworks. This certification aims to enable individuals to defend AI systems, ensuring compliance with global standards while facilitating safe automation and innovation in security protocols.
This initiative directly responds to the talent shortages highlighted in SGInnovate’s Deep Tech Central insights. A staggering 44% increase in job openings for AI and cybersecurity roles was observed from 2024 to 2025, with a 65% growth in applications during the same period. However, only 20% of these candidates possess the required skills, underscoring a significant gap in job-ready talent. To effectively bridge this divide, the newly launched SecAI+ certification will be accessible through the Deep Tech Central platform, ensuring comprehensive support for learners in their career journeys.
A Unified Learning-to-Employment Connection
The partnership between CompTIA and SGInnovate not only enhances learning pathways but also streamlines transitions into the tech workforce. By hosting these new programs on the Deep Tech Central platform, they provide a vital connection point for individuals of all career stages seeking opportunities in the burgeoning tech landscape. This platform serves as a hub for applicants looking to bridge their skills gap, as well as startups and local enterprises searching for specialized talent.
Peter Schalkwijk, Vice President at CompTIA APAC, highlighted the importance of varied educational approaches: “Classroom learning, on-the-job training, and professional certifications form the backbone of a robust technology workforce.” He added that by working together with SGInnovate, their mutual goal is to empower individuals with tech skills that foster innovation and economic growth across Singapore.
Interested individuals can register for the CyberReady+ Bootcamp and apply for the SecAI+ certification by visiting
SGInnovate. This strategic partnership promises to shape the future of Singapore’s tech talent landscape as both organizations unite their expertise to create a pool of skilled professionals ready to enter the workforce.