March 8, 2017
It is predicted there will be 1.5 million unfilled cybersecurity job openings by 2019. This dangerous shortfall is putting us all at risk. The dramatic increase in cybercrime and a constantly changing cybersecurity landscape has created a very high demand for cybersecurity professionals. The problem lies in the fact that the supply doesn’t come anywhere close to meeting the demand.Not only are cybersecurity threats increasing, they’re also becoming significantly more complicated. Because the scope of the challenge is constantly growing, it requires an ever-expanding skill set. A robust, evolving program of training and education is critical.

Number of online job listings for cybersecurity-related positions and employed security workers in Michigan.

Measures the concentration of cybersecurity job demand in Michigan relative to the national average.

A comparison of the currently employed cybersecurity workforce in Michigan relative to the demand.
A multi-pronged approach will likely be the most effective. Industry, governments, academia and nonprofits should work together to address the need for a skilled workforce. Merit addresses the shortage of relevant and accessible NSA/CNSS accredited training through maintaining several strategic partnerships. Merit Professional Development is currently able to offer cyber security certification courses through Cyber World Institute, Mile2, EC Council, ISC2, CompTIA and ISACA.Merit offers more than forty nationally recognized cybersecurity certifications, such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (CHFI), all meeting the education experience based upon the NICE framework. Executive-Level Workshops and Incident Response Exercises are also available. Training is available live online, in person and private on-site.