Fortinet Broadens Cybersecurity Training Programs for Military Veterans

In an era where cybersecurity threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated and prevalent, the demand for skilled professionals in this field has never been higher. Recognizing this need and the untapped potential of military veterans, Fortinet, a global leader in cybersecurity solutions, has taken a significant step forward by expanding its cybersecurity training programs specifically tailored for veterans transitioning to civilian careers.

The Growing Cybersecurity Skills Gap

Before delving into Fortinet’s initiative, it’s crucial to understand the context of the cybersecurity landscape. The cybersecurity industry is facing a severe shortage of skilled professionals, with millions of positions remaining unfilled worldwide. This skills gap poses a significant challenge to organizations striving to protect their digital assets from ever-evolving threats.

• According to Cybersecurity Ventures, there will be 3.5 million unfilled cybersecurity jobs globally by 2021
• The (ISC)² Cybersecurity Workforce Study reports that the cybersecurity workforce needs to grow by 145% to meet the global demand
• The shortage of cybersecurity professionals is particularly acute in critical sectors such as healthcare, finance, and government

This skills gap not only leaves organizations vulnerable to cyber attacks but also hampers economic growth and innovation. It’s in this context that Fortinet’s initiative to train military veterans becomes particularly significant.

Fortinet’s Commitment to Veteran Training

Fortinet has long recognized the potential of military veterans in addressing the cybersecurity skills gap. The company’s Veterans Program, launched in 2013, has been instrumental in helping veterans transition into cybersecurity careers. Now, Fortinet is taking this commitment a step further by broadening its training programs.

Key Aspects of Fortinet’s Expanded Veterans Program

• Increased course offerings covering a wide range of cybersecurity topics
• Tailored curriculum designed to leverage veterans’ existing skills
• Partnerships with veteran organizations to expand reach and accessibility
• Mentorship programs pairing veterans with industry professionals
• Job placement assistance and career counseling services

These expanded offerings aim to provide veterans with comprehensive training that aligns with the current needs of the cybersecurity industry, making them highly valuable assets to potential employers.

Why Military Veterans are Ideal for Cybersecurity Roles

Military veterans possess a unique set of skills and experiences that make them particularly well-suited for careers in cybersecurity. Their background provides them with several advantages in this field:

• Discipline and attention to detail
• Experience working in high-pressure environments
• Strong teamwork and leadership skills
• Familiarity with complex systems and technologies
• Security clearances that are valuable in certain cybersecurity roles
• Adaptability and quick learning abilities

These qualities align closely with the requirements of many cybersecurity positions, making veterans an excellent fit for the industry. Fortinet’s program aims to build upon these existing strengths and provide the specific technical knowledge needed for success in cybersecurity roles.

The Structure of Fortinet’s Expanded Training Programs

Fortinet’s expanded cybersecurity training programs for veterans are designed to be comprehensive and flexible, catering to various skill levels and career aspirations within the cybersecurity field.

1. Foundational Courses

These courses provide a solid grounding in cybersecurity basics, covering topics such as:

• Introduction to cybersecurity concepts
• Network security fundamentals
• Basic cryptography and encryption
• Security policies and procedures

2. Specialized Tracks

Veterans can choose from several specialized tracks based on their interests and career goals:

• Network Security Engineer
• Cloud Security Specialist
• Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst
• Penetration Tester
• Incident Response Specialist

3. Advanced Certifications

For those looking to further enhance their credentials, Fortinet offers preparation courses for industry-recognized certifications such as:

• Fortinet Network Security Expert (NSE) certifications
• CompTIA Security+
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

4. Hands-on Labs and Simulations

Practical experience is crucial in cybersecurity. Fortinet’s program includes:

• Virtual lab environments for practicing security techniques
• Realistic attack simulations
• Capture-the-flag (CTF) exercises

5. Soft Skills Development

Recognizing the importance of non-technical skills, the program also covers:

• Communication in cybersecurity contexts
• Project management for security initiatives
• Ethical considerations in cybersecurity

Partnerships and Collaborations

To maximize the impact of its veterans program, Fortinet has established partnerships with various organizations:

• Veteran service organizations to help identify and recruit potential candidates
• Educational institutions to provide academic credit for completed courses
• Industry partners to offer internship and job placement opportunities
• Government agencies