Empowering the Future: She@Cyber Training Program Launches for Women and Underrepresented Groups
In a significant move to bridge the cybersecurity skills gap, a new EU-funded training program, She@Cyber, has officially opened its enrollment. This initiative is particularly focused on empowering women and other underrepresented groups, aiming to create a more diverse and inclusive workforce in the cybersecurity sector.
Addressing the Cyber Skills Gap
The She@Cyber training program is designed to equip participants with foundational knowledge and industry-recognized credentials, facilitating their entry into the cybersecurity field. Coordinated by the research and advisory firm Vernian RTI, this initiative is part of the Erasmus+ program and is supported by various partners, including the training and certifications body ISACA.
Participants who successfully complete the training modules will receive certificates of participation, with the curriculum centered around ISACA’s Cybersecurity Fundamentals Certificate. This certification is tailored for individuals from non-technical backgrounds, making it an ideal starting point for those looking to embark on a cybersecurity career.
Flexible Learning for All
One of the standout features of the She@Cyber program is its flexibility. The training is self-paced, allowing participants to learn at their convenience. This accessibility is particularly beneficial for individuals considering a career transition or those balancing other commitments.
The curriculum encompasses five key areas:
- Cybersecurity Fundamentals and Business Resilience
- Emerging Technologies and Cybersecurity Challenges
- Cyber Attack Theory and Defense Mechanisms
- Ethical, Legal, and Social Implications of Cybersecurity
- Professional Skills for Cybersecurity Careers
By covering these essential topics, the program aims to provide a comprehensive foundation for aspiring cybersecurity professionals.
A Focus on Diversity
While the program is open to all European citizens, it specifically targets women and individuals from disadvantaged groups, such as ethnic minorities and neurodivergent individuals. This focus is crucial, as the cybersecurity industry has historically struggled with diversity.
Recent statistics highlight this disparity: an analysis by Socura in October 2024 revealed that women hold only 17% of cybersecurity positions in the UK, a figure that has declined since 2021. Furthermore, ISACA research published in April 2024 found that merely 4% of cybersecurity teams globally have a majority of women, with 11% lacking any female representation at all.
Breaking Down Barriers
The She@Cyber program aims to dismantle the barriers that often hinder entry into cybersecurity roles. Many entry-level positions require expensive qualifications and years of experience, making it difficult for newcomers to break into the field. Chris Dimitriadis, Chief Global Strategy Officer at ISACA, emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue: “Cybersecurity urgently needs skilled talent and diverse perspectives. She@Cyber is not only about upskilling – it’s about creating real, inclusive pathways into a sector that’s critical for Europe’s digital future.”
Community Engagement and Networking
In addition to the training program, the She@Cyber initiative is part of a broader movement to foster community engagement among women in cybersecurity. Events like the Women in Cybersecurity session at Infosecurity Europe 2025 will provide platforms for discussion and networking. This year’s event, themed “Embracing Diversity and Empowering Women in Cybersecurity,” will feature prominent female leaders in the field, offering insights and strategies for success.
Conclusion
The launch of the She@Cyber training program marks a pivotal step toward creating a more inclusive cybersecurity workforce. By focusing on women and underrepresented groups, this initiative not only addresses the skills gap but also fosters a diverse range of perspectives essential for tackling the complex challenges of cybersecurity. As enrollment opens, the hope is that this program will inspire a new generation of cybersecurity professionals, ultimately contributing to a safer digital landscape for all.
For more information and to enroll, visit the She@Cyber website.