Fortinet’s Veterans Program Advisory Council: Bridging the Cybersecurity Skills Gap with Military Veterans

Fortinet Launches Veterans Program Advisory Council to Address Cybersecurity Skills Gap

SUNNYVALE, Calif. – Sep 27, 2023 — Fortinet, a global leader in cybersecurity, has announced the formation of the Veterans Program Advisory Council. With a focus on the Five Eyes countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, New Zealand, Canada, and Australia, the council aims to strengthen Fortinet‘s support for the military veterans community by addressing the cybersecurity skills gap and offering training, mentorship, and employment opportunities.

The Importance of Military Veterans in Cybersecurity

Military veterans possess valuable skills that make them ideal candidates for cybersecurity roles. Skills such as discipline, problem-solving under pressure, situational awareness, and an understanding of defense strategies are highly transferable to the cybersecurity field. Furthermore, with the industry facing a talent shortage and an estimated 3.4 million security roles needing to be filled worldwide, veterans can play a crucial role in addressing this gap.

However, despite their potential, the Fortinet 2023 Cybersecurity Skills Gap Global Research Report found that 43% of organizations struggle to recruit qualified veterans for cybersecurity positions. One of the key reasons for this is the lack of access to training and career resources that would enable veterans to successfully transition into civilian cybersecurity roles.

The Role of the Veterans Program Advisory Council

The Veterans Program Advisory Council, composed of esteemed members from organizations supporting the military veterans community, will provide guidance on how Fortinet can better meet the needs of veterans looking to enter the cybersecurity field. The council members, who have extensive experience working with veterans and within the cybersecurity industry, will help Fortinet enhance its Veterans Program offerings and provide veterans with the necessary resources, mentorship, and opportunities to succeed in various cyber career pathways.

The council members, listed in alphabetical order, include:

• Chris Barlow, Managing Director at Cerco IT Ltd (U.K.)
• Marty Donoghue, Chief Executive of the RNZRSA (New Zealand)
• Colin Grimes, Training Coordinator of TechVets Programme, The Forces Employment Charity (U.K.)
• Tom Marsland, Board Chairman and CEO at VetSec, Inc. (U.S.)
• Heath Moodie, Director of Vets in Cyber (Australia)
• James Murphy, Director of TechVets Programme, The Forces Employment Charity (U.K.)
• Bryan Radliff, CyberVets Program Manager at Onward to Opportunity, D’Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families (U.S.)
• Patrick Shaw, Founder of Cyber Catalyst (Canada)
• Mark Wilcox, Head of Cyber Training, Permanent Opportunities and Partnership at Cerco IT Ltd (U.K.)

Fortinet‘s Commitment to Supporting Veterans

Fortinet‘s Veterans Program has been successful in providing cybersecurity training pathways for military veterans with both technical backgrounds and no IT experience. Through the program, veterans gain access to the Network Security Experts (NSE) Certification Program curriculum, enabling them to transition into the cybersecurity field and advance their careers.

This year marks the fifth anniversary of the Veterans Program, which has helped military service members, veterans, and military spouses receive the resources they need to transition into cyber roles. Additionally, Fortinet has been recognized as a 2023 VETS Indexes Recognized Employer, underscoring its commitment to supporting veterans throughout their careers.

Editorial: Unlocking the Potential of Veterans in Cybersecurity

The Veterans Program Advisory Council established by Fortinet is a commendable initiative that recognizes the untapped potential of military veterans in addressing the cybersecurity skills gap. The skills and qualities that veterans bring to the table, such as discipline, problem-solving, and an understanding of defense strategies, are invaluable in the rapidly evolving landscape of cyber threats.

However, it is crucial to address the barriers that veterans face when transitioning into civilian cybersecurity roles. The lack of training and resources often prevent veterans from effectively applying their skills in the industry. By providing veterans with access to training, mentorship, and employment opportunities, Fortinet‘s Veterans Program can bridge this gap and empower veterans to build successful careers in cybersecurity.

Internet Security and the Role of Veterans

With the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks, the demand for cybersecurity professionals is at an all-time high. However, finding qualified candidates to fill these roles remains a challenge. Veterans, with their experience in defense and situational awareness, can bring unique perspectives and skills to the field.

While military service provides a solid foundation for cybersecurity, it is essential to address the specific technical skills required in the industry. Fortinet‘s focus on training and certification through the Network Security Expert (NSE) program ensures that veterans have the knowledge and expertise necessary to excel in their cybersecurity careers.

Retaining Veterans in Cybersecurity

An alarming issue within the cybersecurity industry is the high turnover rate among veterans. Burnout and overwork due to staff shortages contribute to this problem. The Veterans Program Advisory Council’s role in addressing this issue is invaluable. By providing guidance on reskilling and upskilling opportunities, the council can help veterans stay engaged and motivated in their cyber career pathways.

Moreover, fostering a supportive community that understands and addresses the unique challenges veterans face in transitioning to civilian life can significantly improve retention rates. Programs like Vets in Cyber, created by a veteran for veterans, offer the necessary support and mentorship that can make a difference in veterans’ long-term engagement in the industry.

Advice: Nurturing the Potential of Veterans in Cybersecurity

For organizations looking to tap into the talent pool of military veterans in cybersecurity, it is crucial to establish comprehensive programs that address the specific needs of veterans. Here are some recommendations:

1. Provide Training and Certification Opportunities

Offer veterans access to cybersecurity training programs and certifications such as the Network Security Expert (NSE) Certification Program. This will ensure that veterans acquire the technical skills necessary to excel in their cybersecurity careers and stay up to date with the latest industry developments.

2. Offer Mentorship and Professional Development

Connect veterans with experienced professionals who can serve as mentors and provide guidance throughout their cybersecurity journey. Mentorship can greatly enhance veterans’ understanding of the industry and help them navigate its intricacies. Additionally, providing opportunities for professional development, such as conferences and workshops, can further facilitate veterans’ advancement in their careers.

3. Foster a Supportive Community

Create a community where veterans feel understood and supported. Programs like Vets in Cyber and TechVets bring together veterans with shared experiences and provide invaluable networking opportunities and resources. Collaborating with these organizations can help organizations foster a sense of belonging and facilitate veterans’ integration into the cybersecurity industry.

4. Address Burnout and Overwork

To retain veterans in cybersecurity roles, organizations must address the issues of burnout and overwork. Staff shortages in the industry only exacerbate these problems. Companies should ensure adequate staffing levels and prioritize work-life balance to prevent veteran employees from feeling overwhelmed and ultimately leaving the industry.

Conclusion

The formation of the Veterans Program Advisory Council by Fortinet is a significant step towards unlocking the potential of military veterans in cybersecurity. By addressing the specific challenges faced by veterans and providing them with the necessary training, resources, and support, Fortinet is not only bridging the cybersecurity skills gap but also empowering veterans to build successful and sustainable careers in the industry. Organizations across the cybersecurity sector should take note of Fortinet‘s initiative and implement comprehensive programs that nurture the potential of veterans. By doing so, we can tap into a valuable talent pool and enhance our cybersecurity defenses.