ISC2 addresses cybersecurity workforce gap by creating new pathways to cybersecurity careers

Alexandria, Va., August 31, 2022 – ISC2 – the world’s largest nonprofit association of certified cybersecurity professionals – today launched ISC2 Candidates for individuals pursuing or considering a career in cybersecurity, or already seeking an ISC2 certification. Upon enrolling as an ISC2 Candidate, participants receive access to exclusive programs and services, including discounts on official ISC2 certification education courses, self-study materials and conferences. An annual due of U.S. $50 will be waived for the first year of the initiative (until September 2023) as ISC2 Candidates work toward earning an ISC2 certification like the ISC2 CISSP® or ISC2 Certified in CybersecuritySM entry-level certification.

“Part of our commitment to addressing the global cybersecurity workforce shortage is creating new pathways to cybersecurity career success,” said Clar Rosso, ISC2 CEO. “Whether you are pursuing your first cybersecurity job or looking to advance within the profession, as an ISC2 Candidate, you will have access to the resources, benefits and professional development you need to achieve your goals. ISC2 – backed by more than 170,000 members – will be your guide, partner and advocate as you achieve career milestones like joining a local chapter, discovering a mentor at a conference or earning your first ISC2 certification. We will be there to support you every step of the way.”  

Empowering Cybersecurity Career Pursuers
In a report from Champlain College Online, cybersecurity professionals were surveyed on the top barriers to entry in their career path. Results included high expectations for prior training or work experience, as well as a lack of diversity and inclusion. ISC2 is addressing many of these barriers with the creation of ISC2 Candidates, which will help reduce costs and make education more accessible to under-represented populations worldwide. Benefits include:

  • 20% off ISC2 certification education, including online self-paced and online instructor-led courses for all ISC2 certifications
  • ISC2 member pricing for regional SECURE Summits and ISC2 Security Congress annual conference
  • Access to hundreds of hours of award-winning ISC2 webinars
  • 30% – 50% off publications  
  • Digital badge to demonstrate your commitment online

One Million Certified in Cybersecurity
ISC2 today also announced that ISC2 Candidates is the first opportunity for individuals to participate in the One Million Certified in Cybersecurity℠ program. ISC2 has pledged to put one million people through its entry-level Certified in Cybersecurity certification exam and education program for free. Upon enrolling as an ISC2 Candidate, individuals will have the opportunity to take the ISC2 online self-paced education course for the Certified in Cybersecurity certification and the exam for free.

How to Become an ISC2 Candidate
All ISC2 Candidates are required to apply online and affirm that they will abide by the ISC2 Code of Ethics. To learn more and to become an ISC2 Candidate at no cost for the first year (until September 2023), visit www.isc2.org/candidate.

About ISC2
ISC2 is an international nonprofit membership association focused on inspiring a safe and secure cyber world. Best known for the acclaimed Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP®) certification, ISC2 offers a portfolio of credentials that are part of a holistic, pragmatic approach to security. Our membership, more than 168,000 strong, is made up of certified cyber, information, software and infrastructure security professionals who are making a difference and helping to advance the industry. Our vision is supported by our commitment to educate and reach the general public through our charitable foundation – The Center for Cyber Safety and Education™. For more information on ISC2, visit www.isc2.org, follow us on Twitter or connect with us on Facebook and LinkedIn.

© 2022 ISC2 Inc., ISC2, CISSP, SSCP, CCSP, CGRC, CSSLP, HCISPP, CISSP-ISSAP, CISSP-ISSEP, CISSP-ISSMP and CBK are registered marks, and CC is a service mark of ISC2, Inc.

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Media Contact:

Amanda Steinman
Senior PR Manager
ISC2
asteinman@isc2.org