OPSWAT, a global leader in perimeter defense cybersecurity solutions for critical environments, announced that it is launching a $10 million scholarship program to offer essential CIP training courses. This initiative is designed to address the increasing demand for certified cybersecurity professionals, particularly within critical infrastructure industries.
ICS2 estimates in its 2023 Cybersecurity Workforce Study that 4 million cybersecurity professionals are needed globally, marking a significant 13% increase from 2022. The CIP landscape has become more complex, requiring expertise in safeguarding both Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT). Additionally, the data sharing between these domains, coupled with complex technologies, intensifies the need for specialized knowledge around how to protect it. OPSWAT recognizes these challenges and is committed to bridging the skills gap in this specialized field.
In response to the urgency outlined by the U.S. Executive Orders and the National Cybersecurity Strategy, OPSWAT's scholarship program will provide OPSWAT Academy courses through authorized partnerships with educational institutions and government agencies. These collaborations aim to empower both students and seasoned professionals by offering them free access to courses that cover the latest technologies in cybersecurity and are tailored to equip participants with the skills necessary to protect critical infrastructure environments from a dynamic threat landscape.
"Through our commitment to education and workforce development, OPSWAT is taking a significant step towards closing the cybersecurity skills gap," said Benny Czarny, Founder and CEO at OPSWAT. "Our goal is to ensure that individuals, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to develop their cybersecurity expertise and join OPSWAT’s mission in protecting the world’s critical infrastructure."
Acknowledging the importance of public-private partnerships, OPSWAT emphasizes that collective efforts are vital in addressing the cybersecurity workforce gap. By supporting this scholarship program, OPSWAT not only contributes to the growth of the critical infrastructure community but also aligns with government initiatives focused on enhancing cybersecurity measures.
