Microsoft aims to fill cybersecurity jobs worldwide with expanded skills campaign
Microsoft will help fill gaps in the cybersecurity workforce in 23 countries around the world.
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What you need to know
Microsoft announced acybersecurity skills campaignin October 2021 to get more people into jobs within the industry. Now, the tech giant hasannounced plansto expand the campaign to 23 more countries. Microsoft will invest in countries that have an elevated cyberthreat risk and a gap in the cybersecurity workforce. Plans include providing resources through LinkedIn Learning, educating teachers in the sector, and supporting underserved and diverse job seekers.
In the blog post announcing the news, Microsoft states that there will be 3.5 million cybersecurity jobs open around the world by 2025. That would be a 350% increase over an eight-year period if it proves accurate. The expanded campaign by the tech giant should help fill some of those vacancies with qualified professionals.
Here’s the list of countries that will receive investment by Microsoft:
Like with its campaign in the United States, Microsoft will alsofocus on increasing diversityamong cybersecurity workers in the new regions. In the 23 countries that are part of the expansion, 17% of the cybersecurity workforce is female.
“Leaving women out of the cybersecurity workforce leaves talent on the table and will only hurt our ability to close the skills gap,” says Kate Behncken, vice president and lead of Microsoft Philanthropies. “This isn’t just about equality, there’s a business case too: gender-diverse businesses perform better.”
Microsoft will focus on five key areas as part of its global efforts:
Microsoft also shared an update on its U.S. cybersecurity skills campaign. The company is working with 135 community colleges, including providing access to free curricula. Grants and scholarships have also been provided through the campaign.
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Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He’s covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean’s journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.
