PERSPECTIVES FROM THE FIELD

The strength of Indiana is that we bring together a variety of perspectives from the plethora of areas that touch the field of cyber, especially through the Indiana Executive Council on Cybersecurity (IECC). Hence the name "Perspectives From the Field Series" in which we invite experts to discuss the real and challenging issues we are facing in the field and the proposed solutions from the experts to better the lives and businesses of all Hoosiers.

In the latest installment of our series, Raymond Kirk shares his perspective on the importance of diversity in the world of cybersecurity. Today’s blog is the third in a three-part blog series in celebration of Black History Month – featuring a series of questions by The State of Security -- and focuses on the abundance of opportunities in cybersecurity and advice for people looking to join the industry.

By Raymond Kirk

Question 3: Can you recommend any communities that people looking to join the industry, or those looking to grow their networks, should look to be involved in? Where can they find new opportunities to learn and grow?

Raymond Kirk, Raymond_The_PM

One of my favorite communities I always recommend to young adults is yearup.org. They have a phenomenal workforce development program that includes several tracks into the IT and cybersecurity field.

Outside of that, I would look at meetup.com for local IT/cyber security events to network and even General Assembly for training and events.

Emanuel Ghebreyesus, etg71

The same as what I said before. Care first and be a human being that refuses to judge at sight but who wants to understand and get involved.

Fareedah Shaheed, @CyberFareedah

The most helpful opportunities to learn and grow come from meeting new people. And these people may turn out to be mentors or job opportunities.

I would also start to be active on Twitter and LinkedIn. Start having conversations with people from the industry. This will lead you into the communities and opportunities you want.

Gabriel Gumbs,@GabrielGumbs

The International Consortium of Minority Cybersecurity Professionals is a great community for those looking to grow their networks and join the industry. However, I would also highly suggest ISACA, SANS, OWASP and local B-Sides communities.

There is no one right answer, and in fact, digital communities have been thriving during the pandemic. I would look into the Slack and Discord communities that align with your technology and security interests.

Ambler T. Jackson, LinkedIn

Both Women in Security and Privacy (WISP) and the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP) are both great organizations for people to join and to tap into a network of like-minded individuals.

I belong to both, and I enjoy utilizing their resources and network as I continue to learn and grow in my career.