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Approved and verified accurate by the assistant dean of the College of Engineering and Technology on Aug. 15, 2024.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Grand Canyon University. Any sources cited were accurate as of the publish date.
To grow the number of females in cybersecurity, we must start at the grassroots level. Here are some effective strategies:
Women bring unique perspectives and problem-solving skills that are essential in cybersecurity. They can offer fresh insights into threat analysis, risk management and the development of security protocols. The diversity of thought and experience can help in anticipating and mitigating potential security threats that might be overlooked in a homogenous team.
Moreover, having more females in cybersecurity roles can help inspire the next generation of girls to pursue careers in this field of engineering and technology — after all, it is hard to be what you don’t see. Role models play a crucial role in shaping aspirations, and seeing women in the field, can help encourage young girls to follow in their footsteps.
Cybersecurity can be an exceptional career for women. The field offers numerous opportunities for growth and intellectual challenge, as well as the chance to make a significant impact in protecting digital assets. Females in cybersecurity can enjoy professional cyber careers, with the added benefit of contributing to a more diverse and resilient cybersecurity workforce.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), job growth for computer and information systems managers is projected to grow by 15%, much faster than the average for all occupations from 2022 to 2032.3 During the same timeframe, 86,000 new jobs are estimated to open for this career.3 The demand for these skilled professionals, including women, is expected to increase.3
The field of cybersecurity has been expanding rapidly, yet one significant challenge remains — the underrepresentation of women. Females in cybersecurity are still a minority and increasing their numbers is crucial for a balanced and innovative workforce.
As the co-founder of CybHER®1 and professor and associate dean in the College of Engineering and Technology at Grand Canyon University, I have personally witnessed the significant potential and brilliance that women bring to this field, as well as the positive impact that focused efforts can have in narrowing this gender gap.
In This Article:
Increasing the number of women in cybersecurity is not just a noble goal — it's a necessity for the future of our digital world. By implementing targeted strategies and fostering an inclusive environment, we can help women, including those from minority backgrounds, have the opportunities and support they need to pursue cybersecurity careers.
I am deeply invested in the growth of this field and optimistic about the future. By working together, we can create a more diverse, innovative and secure cyberspace for everyone.
Currently, the percentage of women in cybersecurity is alarmingly low. According to a recent survey report, women represent just about 25% of the cybersecurity workforce.2 This number is even lower when considering minorities in cybersecurity, highlighting a pressing need for diversity and inclusion in the field.2
In my professional experience, I strongly believe diverse teams are more creative, effective and better at solving complex problems. I believe making the push for more diversity in cybersecurity is not just a matter of equality but also of strategic importance.
