WiCyS and ISC2 Launch New Cybersecurity Training Initiative
Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS), a dedicated organization focused on promoting female talent in cybersecurity, has announced a strategic alliance with ISC2, a leading nonprofit member organization for cybersecurity experts. Together they are proud to unveil the WiCyS + ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity Certification Fall Camp. This groundbreaking initiative aims to dismantle barriers that prevent many from entering the cybersecurity field, creating more inclusive opportunities for aspiring professionals.
The Need for Inclusive Initiatives in Cybersecurity
As the demand for cybersecurity professionals continues to rise, industry research indicates a significant gap of over 4 million in the global workforce. Organizations worldwide struggle to fill vital positions due to this shortage. By providing entry-level certifications and support from the community, WiCyS and ISC2 are stepping up to tackle this pressing issue and broaden access, particularly for underrepresented groups.
Voices from the Cybersecurity Community
Dwan Jones, Director of Inclusive Strategies and Engagement at ISC2, emphasizes the importance of diversity in cybersecurity. He notes, "The cybersecurity profession thrives when it benefits from diverse experiences and perspectives, which drive innovation and effective solutions. Currently, women make up only a quarter of the global cybersecurity workforce, and with about 26% being under the age of 30, it's clear that we have much work ahead. The Fall Camp program is designed to empower aspiring professionals by helping them validate their skills, connect with a global community, and visualize their future in this field."
Description of the Fall Camp Program
The Fall Camp is set to offer participants the opportunity to work towards ISC2's Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) certification, which requires no prior experience or formal education. This accessibility makes the program suitable for IT professionals, career changers, students, and even recent high school graduates ready to invest their efforts toward earning industry-recognized certifications.
Supportive Learning Environment
Beyond the foundational coursework, the Fall Camp enhances the learning experience by fostering a sense of community, mentorship, and accountability among participants. Each participant will receive a complimentary exam voucher for one attempt and gain access to an extensive 14-hour online self-paced training module provided by ISC2. Additionally, participants will be integrated into a supportive network facilitated by WiCyS, receiving guidance from both a WiCyS mentor and an ISC2 technical mentor, alongside open office hours dedicated to curriculum assistance.
Real Experiences from Previous Cohorts
Reflecting on experiences from previous iterations of the program, Anushree Vaidya, a Cybersecurity Analyst, shared, "The Spring cohort was pivotal for my CC exam preparation. The collaborative environment allowed us to engage in discussions, seek advice, and explore various subjects more deeply. The cohort's foundation fostered camaraderie and supported learning, which was vital during our preparation. This experience not only deepened my understanding of the material but also helped forge lasting bonds with fellow participants who share my passion for cybersecurity."
Program Timeline and Application Details
The Fall Camp will take place from October 14 to November 14. An exciting aspect of this program is that the top three WiCyS members, chosen based on their examination scores, applications, and experiences, will be awarded scholarships to attend the WiCyS 2026 Annual Conference.
Applications for the WiCyS + ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity Certification Fall Camp will be accepted until September 22. For more details and to apply, visit the WiCyS website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the WiCyS + ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity Certification Fall Camp?
This Fall Camp is an initiative designed to support the training of individuals looking to enter the cybersecurity field by offering access to certification and community resources.
Who is eligible to apply for the Fall Camp?
The program is open to IT professionals, career changers, college students, and recent high school graduates with no prerequisites required for entry.
When do applications open and close for the program?
Applications opened on September 8 and will close on September 22.
What certification will participants work toward?
Participants will aim to earn the ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) certification.
What kind of support will participants receive?
Participants will benefit from mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to comprehensive training materials, enhancing their learning experience in cybersecurity.
