ISC2 Records Historic Moment as Community Surpasses Half a Million Strong

A Transformative Path: ISC2 Rebrands and Expands its Global Influence

An Inclusive and Diverse Cybersecurity Community

In a significant move to reflect its growing global membership and expanded role in strengthening the influence, diversity, and vitality of cybersecurity professionals around the world, the International Information System Security Certification Consortium, formerly known as (ISC)², has rebranded itself as ISC2. This prestigious nonprofit member organization, founded in 1989 as a certification body for the cybersecurity profession, has announced this change, alongside the launch of a revamped website designed to embrace inclusivity and cater to a diverse global audience.

With a community that has now grown to over 500,000 members, ISC2 has achieved a historic milestone. The association’s exponential growth in recent years can be attributed to its focus on attracting individuals from diverse backgrounds into the cybersecurity profession, supporting their career growth, and advocating for their interests worldwide.

Key to this growth is ISC2‘s One Million Certified in Cybersecurity initiative, which aims to build a diverse and skilled cybersecurity workforce pipeline and bridge the global workforce gap of 3.4 million professionals. Since its launch 11 months ago, ISC2 has enrolled over 250,000 individuals in the entry-level certification training and more than 310,000 as ISC2 Candidates.

Advocacy and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)

Beyond its certification programs, ISC2 has demonstrated a strong commitment to advocacy and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the field of cybersecurity. The organization has positioned itself as a voice for its members and the cybersecurity profession among policymakers worldwide, advocating for their interests and improving the accessibility of cybersecurity careers.

Recognizing that the future of cybersecurity lies in attracting talent from all walks of life, ISC2 has expanded its range of offerings to meet the evolving needs of its diverse and global community. The organization is dedicated to supporting professionals throughout their careers with lifelong learning opportunities and ethical best practices.

Premier Certifications and Lifelong Learning

ISC2‘s premier cybersecurity certifications, such as the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP®), have long been recognized as industry gold standards. These credentials, along with the organization’s comprehensive training programs, empower professionals to enhance their skills, advance their careers, and contribute to the security of the digital landscape.

Furthermore, ISC2 provides continued education resources for its members, including Skill-Builder courses and Certificates, enabling them to gain and maintain competencies, stay up-to-date with emerging threats, and further specialize in their chosen areas of expertise.

The Road Ahead: A Vision of Inclusion and Global Accessibility

With the rebranding to ISC2, the organization aims to improve its global accessibility and ease of translation across all languages. This change aligns with the findings of ISC2‘s research, which revealed that more than half of its members already referred to the organization as ISC2.

Andrew Woolnough, EVP Communications, Content, and Brand at ISC2, highlighted that the guiding principles behind the rebrand were to create a brand identity that spoke to inclusion and accessibility, reinforcing ISC2‘s commitment to its diverse membership. The redesigned website embodies these principles, promoting more inclusive language and imagery, enhancing the user experience, and simplifying navigation to critical resources.

Editorial: Securing the Future of Cybersecurity

The rebranding of ISC2 and its monumental growth in membership signify not only the increasing relevance of cybersecurity in our digitally interconnected world but also the importance of fostering an inclusive and diverse community within the profession. Cybersecurity, once considered an obscure field, has now become a critical pillar of our global society and economy.

As technology continues to advance at an unprecedented pace, the importance of a well-trained, diverse cybersecurity workforce cannot be overstated. The threats we face on a daily basis, from nation-state actors to cybercriminal syndicates, require a collective effort from skilled professionals who can stay ahead of evolving threats and secure our digital infrastructure.

However, the demand for cybersecurity professionals far exceeds the supply. Closing the global workforce gap of 3.4 million professionals necessitates attracting individuals from all backgrounds, encouraging diversity in thought and approach, and fostering an environment where everyone can see themselves in the field.

ISC2‘s One Million Certified in Cybersecurity initiative, with its emphasis on building a skilled and inclusive workforce, is a step in the right direction. By providing accessible training and certifications, ISC2 is empowering individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue successful careers in cybersecurity.

Furthermore, ISC2‘s commitment to advocacy, both for its members and the cybersecurity profession, is crucial in shaping policies that promote a safe and secure cyber landscape. The organization’s engagement with policymakers and its efforts to improve the accessibility of cybersecurity careers contribute to the long-term growth and health of the profession.

Advice: Nurturing a Secure Digital Future

As individuals and organizations become increasingly reliant on digital technologies, it is essential to prioritize cybersecurity and invest in the development of a skilled workforce. For individuals interested in pursuing a career in cybersecurity, ISC2‘s certifications offer a clear pathway to professional excellence.

To organizations, investing in the professional development of employees and supporting their certification journey can lead to a more secure digital infrastructure. By encouraging diversity and inclusion within their cybersecurity teams, organizations can benefit from a range of perspectives and approaches that enhance their ability to detect and respond to threats.

It is also crucial for policymakers to recognize the importance of cybersecurity and collaborate with organizations like ISC2 to shape policies that promote the growth of the profession and strengthen global cybersecurity capabilities.

Ultimately, cybersecurity is a collective effort. ISC2‘s rebranding and its growth in membership symbolize a concerted commitment to securing our digital future. By nurturing a diverse and skilled workforce and advocating for the profession’s interests, ISC2 is playing a vital role in creating a safe and secure cyber world for all.