This Career Field Is Begging for Workers

For job security, consider a career in cybersecurity.

The demand for workers in this field, also known as information security, regularly exceeds the supply of applicants, CNBC reports.

Caleb Barlow, vice president of mobile management and security at IBM, tells CNBC’s “On the Money” of that demand:

“Odds are there are several hundred thousand jobs today that aren’t filled.”

The shortfall is estimated to reach 1.5 million unfilled jobs by 2020, according to the nonprofit (ISC)² Foundation’s 2015 Global Information Security Workforce Study, released earlier this year.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of jobs for information security analysts is projected to grow by 37 percent — much faster than average — between 2012 and 2022.

Such analysts plan and carry out security measures to protect an organization’s computer networks and computer systems, such as from attacks by hackers. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that these employees’ responsibilities are continually increasing as the number of cyberattacks increase.

Barlow tells CNBC that corporations like IBM are partnering with universities to get training to students. IBM, for example, works with more than 300 universities worldwide, giving the schools free access to the company’s security software.

Barlow explains:

“The challenge we have is not only do we need the technical talent, but we need the pipeline of students coming out of universities. …

“Part of what you have to keep in mind is if you’re a top cybersleuth coming out of school, not only are you in demand, but this isn’t just about money. It’s also about students want to go work someplace where they are going to see these types of attacks and be able to use these types of skills.”

Would you consider a career in cybersecurity? Share your thoughts below or on our Facebook page.