RSAC 2024 insights: AI, cybersecurity trends & closing the cybersecurity skills gap

Discover key takeaways from RSAC 2024 on AI, next-gen tech, and workforce training strategies to close the cybersecurity skills gap with CompTIA.

Blog-Cover-1DAcross all industries, securing networks, adhering to GRC standards, data governance, and cyber awareness best practices start from within. As cybersecurity threats grow in prevalence and complexity, organizations are looking for innovative ways to stay ahead of these threats. For many organizations, this innovation happens when company leaders tap into the potential of their workforce.  

CompTIA’s Ron Culler on the future of cybersecurity

As highlighted by CompTIA VP of Cyber Development Programs, Ron Culler, at the 2024 RSAC conference, organizations are finding new ways to meet the demands of cybersecurity best practices within their organization. For many businesses, this has meant:  

  • Leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) 
    • Incorporating large language model artificial intelligence (LLM AI) 

    • Exploring next-gen technologies  

    • And most importantly, implementing strategic workforce training and development to close the cybersecurity skills gap 

    The role of AI and ML in advancing cybersecurity

    The AI, ML, and LLM AI boom is in full force. However, what the digital landscape looks like after the dust settles has yet to be determined.  

    AI and ML will certainly influence cyber threats and how those threats are managed, but now is the time for IT professionals and organizations like yours to begin thinking about their place within this technical skills shift.  

    Culler sheds insight into the influence generative AI can have in your workforce and the importance of digital literacy. He explains, “AI is a tool … and all of our jobs are to understand what tools are out there and how to use those tools.”  

    Whether it's through system automation, improving threat detection, or enhancing employee training, there is plenty of room for AI in cybersecurity to influence how your organization can adapt in the age of increased cyber threats. After all, AI and cybersecurity go hand in hand in today’s changing digital landscape.  

    Exploring next-gen technologies for enhanced security

    The rise in AI has played a part in the evolving landscape of next-gen technologies. Whether it’s cloud-based operations or the expansion of the Internet of Things (IOT), it’s important to consider what elements in your organization’s IT Infrastructure can benefit from next-gen tech. More importantly, how can organizations like yours utilize next-gen technologies for improved security awareness training, tech workforce development, and continued cybersecurity innovation?  

    CompTIA has its finger on the pulse of this changing landscape and is preparing talent in organizations like yours through industry-leading cybersecurity certifications and tech training options. Explore these cybersecurity training certifications and position your organization for success in today’s climate of increased cybersecurity threats.  

    Closing the cybersecurity skills gap: a strategic approach

    Research from the CompTIA Industry Outlook 2024 reveals that 59% of organizations are turning to internal training over hiring new talent in part to address the current cybersecurity shortage. When partnering with industry-leading and accredited certification bodies like CompTIA, closing the skills gap with internal upskilling offers opportunities including:  

    • Improved worker morale and inclusivity  

    • Higher talent retention rates 

    • Streamlined employee onboarding 

    • Cross training including new paths for current talent to enter new tech roles  

    • Increased awareness and training around issues of digital security 

    What do thought leaders have to say about turning to certification bodies to improve their workforce? Industry expert Keatron Evans, VP of Portfolio Product Strategy with the Cengage Group, shared at RSAC 2024 that “certifications give you a blueprint of skills you need to master.”  

    When skills gaps become present, an industry-standard certification can help close those gaps.  

    Culler reinforces this notion, sharing, “For organizations to know if they’re hiring somebody, there’s an advertised map of skill sets that are learned with that certification course. It’s validated when that individual owns that actual certification” 

    See how CompTIA is shaping the future of cybersecurity 

    Now is the time to prepare your workforce with in-demand technical skills that can help detect cyber threats and mitigate cybersecurity attacks. Beyond hardening your organization's defenses, fostering a digitally literate workforce is imperative for this new age in technology.  

    Workforce training with CompTIA prepares your team with critical technical skills ranging from basic IT troubleshooting and network hardening to more complex skills including cyber risk management, threat hunting, threat intelligence, and Pen Testing  

    Our certification courses also bring valuable training including employee upskilling and reskilling to current IT professionals. Becoming CompTIA certified validates those technical skills, allowing individuals to bring value to any organization they work with. Not to mention, upskilling your workforce improves employee retention while improving employee morale.  

    Individuals looking to explore CompTIA certifications can visit our IT Certification Roadmap to find the right training for their career path. 

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