#USA #Cybersecurity #Workforce Development #Denver #AI Skills

CyberSeek Expands Cybersecurity Workforce Data Coverage

In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, the demand for cybersecurity professionals is at an all-time high. Against this backdrop of both opportunity and uncertainty, CyberSeek has announced significant expansions to its cybersecurity workforce data coverage and improved user experience. This initiative comes at a crucial time when organizations are desperately seeking to bolster their cybersecurity capabilities through talent acquisition and skills enhancement.

Increase in Job Postings

Over the past year, employers posted a staggering 514,359 job listings specifically aimed at hiring dedicated cybersecurity professionals and adjacent technical roles that require strong cybersecurity skills. This impressive figure represents an increase of nearly 12% or 57,000 listings compared to the previous year—a clear indication that companies are ramping up their cybersecurity hiring despite the challenges of the current economic climate.

The timing of this announcement couldn’t be better, as it coincides with the 2025 NICE Conference & Expo taking place in Denver. The conference theme, “Climbing Higher: Educating & Sustaining a Resilient Cybersecurity Workforce,” underscores the need for robust data and insights for strategic planning across various sectors.

Importance of Education and Workforce Development

Rodney Petersen, director of NICE, emphasized the significance of adapting educational and workforce development programs in light of the growing needs in cybersecurity. He stated, “The cybersecurity workforce needs of organizations continue to climb higher, compelling us to scale and sustain educational initiatives.” The new data from CyberSeek reinforces the importance of creating realistic entry-level opportunities for aspiring cybersecurity workers and prioritizing ongoing talent development.

AI Skills on the Rise

Noteworthy among the new data insights is the inclusion of artificial intelligence (AI) skills requirements. Approximately 10% of job postings for cybersecurity roles now cite AI as a necessary competency. This means that beyond traditional cybersecurity skills, professionals are increasingly expected to adapt to emerging threats characterized by AI technologies, thus emphasizing the evolving nature of the workforce.

Additionally, CyberSeek has taken a landmark step by providing a global cybersecurity employment baseline for the first time, estimating the worldwide cybersecurity workforce at approximately 4,970,000 individuals. This estimate reflects a spectrum between 4.4 million and 5.5 million, encompassing dedicated cybersecurity professionals alongside those in IT with substantial cybersecurity responsibilities.

Addressing Workforce Gap Challenges

Despite broader economic uncertainties, the pressure on organizations to procure cybersecurity talent remains formidable. According to Matthew Walsh, Research Director at Lightcast, the data highlights that a workforce gap persists, presenting challenges for both public and private organizations alike. Employers, policymakers, educators, and job seekers are urged to leverage these insights to navigate the shifting landscape of cybersecurity.

The updated CyberSeek report also details a substantial supply-demand ratio of 74%, indicating an evident gap between perceived staffing needs and available talent. Compounding this dynamic is the reality that recruiting efforts are taking, on average, 21% longer, alongside the emergence of AI-enabled threats that necessitate redefined security protocols and skills.

Insights on Job Postings by State

The hiring demand is widespread, with varying levels of activity across states. Approximately 55% of job postings come from the top ten states, highlighting significant regional disparities. The leading states in cybersecurity job postings include:

• - Virginia: 53,855
• - California: 44,344
• - Texas: 42,559
• - Maryland: 27,050
• - Florida: 23,792

This comprehensive overview serves as a vital resource for various stakeholders involved in the cybersecurity domain.

Conclusion

As organizations across all sectors grapple with the complexities of cybersecurity, the insights provided by CyberSeek will be instrumental in guiding recruitment, education, and workforce development initiatives. For more detailed information on related job postings and workforce metrics, visit CyberSeek.