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Top 5 Most In-Demand Cybersecurity Skills

October 18, 2024
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A career in cybersecurity is a dynamic, ever-evolving path where the right skills can propel you to the forefront of an industry in desperate need of qualified professionals. In our recent Tech Talk, we were joined by Dean Ziffle from NeoLore Networks, Nathalie Guthrie from CENGN, Rafi Wanounou from Fortinet, and Victor Ajala, an industry expert. These experts shared valuable insights into what employers are actively seeking in today’s cybersecurity talent.

Whether you’re just beginning your cybersecurity journey or looking to take the next step in your career, these five skills will set you apart and open doors to exciting opportunities. With companies facing a 5:1 ratio of job openings to qualified candidates, now is the time to develop these in-demand skills and secure your place in this thriving industry.

Hands-On Experience: The Key to Practical Knowledge

Why It Matters

Practical knowledge builds confidence and prepares professionals to manage cybersecurity threats effectively, whether by configuring firewalls or conducting vulnerability assessments. Employers prioritize candidates who can take action immediately and deliver results.

Example

At Willis College, students engage with programs like Fortinet’s Next-Generation Firewall platforms, practicing real-world scenarios that mirror the challenges they will face on the job. Many employers prioritize candidates with experience using these tools, as this experience demonstrates the ability to solve problems independently.

Pro Tip: Get ahead by working on personal cybersecurity projects—like setting up a home firewall or practicing penetration testing in a lab environment. This demonstrates initiative and practical skills that employers value.

Learn more about the importance of hands-on learning from Fortinet: Fortinet Cybersecurity Skills Gap Insights

Communication and Report Writing: Bridging the Gap Between Teams

Cybersecurity professionals must be more than just technically proficient—they need to be effective communicators. Employers are increasingly seeking subject matter experts who can clearly convey complex concepts to diverse audiences, from technical teams to senior management.

Why It Matters

Effective communication ensures alignment across an organization, minimizing the risk of misunderstandings that could lead to costly security breaches. As a cybersecurity professional, your ability to translate technical jargon into actionable insights will impact decision-making and ensure your organization’s security strategies are executed smoothly.

Example

At Willis College, students refine these skills through projects such as vulnerability assessments and incident reports, designed to prepare them for both technical and non-technical audiences. This practical experience ensures that graduates can collaborate effectively with multiple stakeholders in real-world scenarios.

Pro Tip: Practice writing about cybersecurity topics through blogs or discussion forums. This will hone your communication skills and help establish you as a subject matter expert within the field.

Firewall and Network Security Management: Mastering the Basics of Cyber Defense

Mastering firewalls and network security is essential for any cybersecurity professional. Many entry-level roles focus on managing network infrastructure, providing the foundation for more advanced positions like cybersecurity analyst or security architect.

Why It Matters

A deep understanding of firewall technologies and network configurations allows you to monitor, analyze, and prevent unauthorized access to systems—forming the foundation of any organization’s cyber defense strategy.

Example

Willis College students work on industry-standard firewall solutions, gaining practical experience with the tools and platforms widely used by leading cybersecurity teams. This hands-on exposure ensures students graduate with the skills needed to excel in both entry-level and advanced roles.

Pro Tip: Consider earning a network security certification to validate your firewall management and network security expertise. Additionally, Fortinet offers free online training courses to help get you started. 

Cybersecurity Certifications: Opening Doors to Opportunities

While hands-on experience is critical, certifications are equally important as they confirm your mastery of both practical skills and theoretical concepts. Certifications signal to employers that you’re committed to professional growth and capable of meeting industry standards.

Why It Matters

Certifications demonstrate that you’ve practiced your skills and understand the underlying principles needed to succeed. They serve as a benchmark for employers, reassuring them that you are up-to-date with the latest technologies and practices. In such a fast-evolving industry, certifications are more than credentials—they prove you’re committed to lifelong learning and ready to tackle new challenges.

Example

At Willis College, students prepare for industry-recognized certifications such as CompTIA Security+, Cisco CCSP, and Fortinet NSE, ensuring they graduate with the credentials employers value. These certifications, combined with hands-on training, help students enter the job market with confidence and credibility.

Pro Tip: Don’t stop at entry-level certifications—continuous learning through advanced certifications will keep you ahead in this rapidly changing field. Explore programs that align with your career goals, and take advantage of Willis College’s career services and resources to stay ahead.

Learn more about career-enhancing certifications in the Fortinet Certification Overview

Adaptability and Continuous Learning: Staying Ahead of Emerging Threats

The cybersecurity landscape evolves rapidly. New challenges—such as AI-driven threats and quantum computing—require professionals to constantly update their knowledge and adapt to industry changes.

Why It Matters

Remaining up-to-date ensures that you stay relevant and capable of defending against emerging risks. Professionals who commit to lifelong learning position themselves as industry leaders, while those who rely on outdated knowledge risk falling behind. Employers value professionals who embrace continuous learning and proactively develop new skills to meet evolving challenges.

Example

At Willis College, we support continuous learning through our Lifelong Learning Program, which allows graduates to return to school free of charge to refresh their skills or explore new technologies. This unique program ensures alumni can stay competitive and advance their careers, even years after graduation. Whether you’re interested in exploring ethical hacking, cloud security, or quantum technologies, the Lifelong Learning Program provides the resources you need to succeed.

Pro Tip: Subscribe to industry news sources, participate in cybersecurity webinars, and attend conferences to stay current with the latest trends. Keep an eye out for exclusive Willis College webinars, where industry experts share insights into emerging threats and innovative solutions.

Your Cybersecurity Journey Starts Now

 

Developing these five skills will set you on the path to success in cybersecurity—one of the fastest-growing fields in 2025. With hands-on experience, strong communication skills, firewall expertise, certifications, and a commitment to continuous learning, you’ll be ready to meet the demands of this dynamic field.

At Willis College, we provide the tools, knowledge, and support you need to thrive. Whether you’re just starting or looking to advance your career, our programs are designed to give you the skills and confidence to succeed.

Ready to Take the Next Step?
Enroll in one of our cybersecurity programs today to gain access to hands-on projects, tools, industry experts, and top certifications. Learn more here.


Technical Glossary

Here is a quick glossary of key cybersecurity terms to help navigate the terminology used in this playbook.

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