TL;DR
- Massive demand: About 448,000 cybersecurity job openings exist in the U.S. alone, with a global shortage nearing 4.8 million professionals.
- Strong earning potential: Entry-level roles start around $70–$90K, while experienced professionals can earn $110K+, and CISOs often exceed $200K annually.
- Future-proof career: Projected 33% job growth through 2033 — over six times the average for all occupations.
- Cybrary advantage: Structured learning paths, hands-on labs, and certification prep to help you enter the field with confidence and long-term career resilience.
The Digital World Needs Defenders — Now More Than Ever
Every headline about a breach, ransomware attack, or AI-powered phishing campaign is more than just news — it’s a call for skilled professionals to step up. In 2025, that call has never been louder.
In the U.S. alone, there are approximately 448,000 cybersecurity job openings, according to the latest CyberSeek Cybersecurity Supply/Demand Heat Map and globally the shortage is nearly 4.8 million roles. Behind those numbers are overwhelmed teams, organizations desperate for help, and a growing need for people who can protect our most valuable digital assets.
That’s why, if you’ve been considering a shift, or looking for a field with long-term security, a career in cybersecurity should be at the top of your list.
A Career That’s Recession-Resistant, AI-Resistant, and Purpose-Driven
Cybersecurity isn’t just “safe” from automation — it’s fueled by it. As companies adopt AI, cloud services, and connected devices, their attack surfaces grow, and so does the need for human oversight, strategy, and creative problem-solving.
- The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 33% growth for Information Security Analysts between 2023 and 2033 — more than six times the average for all occupations.
- Mid-career professionals in security earn $110K–$150K, with executive roles often exceeding $200K.
- Most importantly: every job directly contributes to protecting people, organizations, and even critical infrastructure.
If you want a career where your work matters, few fields compare.
But Let’s Be Honest — It’s Not All Glamour
I won’t sugar-coat it: cybersecurity can be stressful. Two-thirds of professionals say their jobs are more stressful now than five years ago. Burnout is a reality - 44% report severe stress.
The good news? With the right training, tools, and community, you can enter the field prepared, work smarter, and build a sustainable career. This is where Cybrary changes the game.
How Cybrary Prepares You to Succeed (and Stay) in Cybersecurity
Anyone who’s been in the industry for a while will tell you that success in cybersecurity isn’t about memorizing tools or jargon. It’s about:
- Building a foundation — understanding networks, security principles, and threat models.
- Gaining hands-on skills you can apply immediately.
- Learning to adapt as threats evolve.
Cybrary delivers on all three:
- Career Path Learning: Structured paths for SOC Analyst, Penetration Tester, and more — each blending theory with real-world labs.
- Certification Prep: From Security+ to CISSP, courses are designed to get you exam-ready and job-ready at the same time.
- Hands-On Labs: Practice in safe, simulated environments so you can hit the ground running from day one.
- Community Support: Learn alongside peers and connect with instructors who’ve been on the front lines.
This isn’t passive learning - it’s training built to help you perform under pressure, avoid burnout, and stand out in interviews.
Your Path from Beginner to In-Demand Professional
One of the biggest myths I hear is “I need years of IT experience to get into cybersecurity.” Not true. Many successful professionals start from different fields entirely — law enforcement, teaching, even retail.
With Cybrary, your journey could look like this:
Month 1–3
- Complete IT & Cybersecurity Foundations and foundational networking courses.
- Start labs in basic security tools.
Month 4–6
- Choose your career path (SOC Analyst, Pen Tester, etc.).
- Begin certification prep (e.g., Security+).
Month 7–12
- Complete advanced labs, join community challenges.
- Apply for entry-level or apprenticeship roles with a portfolio of completed projects.
By the end of year one, you’ll have not just knowledge, but demonstrable skills, which is exactly what hiring managers want.
Why 2025 Is the Perfect Time to Start
- Unprecedented demand means more opportunities and faster hiring cycles.
- Remote-friendly roles are now the norm, opening doors no matter where you live.
- Cybersecurity skills are transferable across industries — finance, healthcare, tech, government, and more.
And unlike many careers, this is one where you can see the impact of your work — stopping attacks before they happen, safeguarding data, and protecting people.
Final Word: The World Can’t Wait and Neither Should You
Every day you wait is another day the shortage grows and the threats multiply. Whether you’re fresh out of school, switching careers, or leveling up from another IT role, cybersecurity offers a future-proof path with purpose, pay, and personal growth.
With Cybrary, you won’t just join the field, you’ll enter it ready to thrive.
Start Your Cybersecurity Career with Cybrary Today. The world needs more defenders. Let’s make you one of them.
