Why cyber security is the career of the decade
Discover why cyber security is the hottest career of the decade. Learn about high-demand roles, lucrative salaries, and how certifications like CEH and CISSP can kick-start your journey into this thriving industry with Learning People.
Digital transformation touches nearly every aspect of our lives, and the demand for cyber security pros has gone through the roof. From safeguarding personal data to global data, cyber security offers an exciting and rewarding career path. If you’re considering a move into this in-demand industry, now is the time to act.
We’re going to tell you why cyber security is the hottest career of the decade, what it offers to aspiring cyber professionals, and how you can get started.
Written by
Polly is a Marketing Executive at Learning People, bringing extensive expertise in professional training and career development, including in-demand fields like data, tech, cyber security, cloud computing, project management, and business skills.
The global rise of cyber threats
You’ll have heard news reports of cyber-attacks targeting businesses, governments, and individual people. Malicious actors are constantly evolving their techniques to exploit vulnerable agents. According to studies by Cybersecurity Ventures, global cybercrime costs are expected to grow by 15% per year, reaching $10.5 trillion USD annually by 2025, highlighting the urgent need for skilled professionals in cyber security and ethical hacking.
Organisations of all sizes are recognising that robust cyber defences are no longer optional. With high-profile breaches affecting even the most established companies, demand for expertise in areas like penetration testing, network security, and ethical hacking continues to grow.
If you’re looking for a future-proof career, look no further.
High demand and job security
The cyber security job market has seen exponential growth, with roles like ethical hacker, security analyst, and penetration tester among the most sought-after in tech. In fact, this report from Gov UK reveals that businesses are facing a significant shortage of about 44% in skilled tech professionals.
This skills gap creates incredible opportunities for those entering the field. With organisations actively seeking individuals with certifications in ethical hacking, cloud security, and risk management, the competition for qualified talent means generous salaries and career progression.
The rise of ethical hacking
Ethical hacking, or penetration testing, plays a critical role in safeguarding sensitive data. By thinking like a hacker, ethical hackers help organisations identify and fix vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.
This exciting career path allows professionals to combine creativity with technical expertise. Ethical hacking certifications, like the CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) or PenTest+, are highly valued by employers and pave the way for rewarding opportunities in the field.
Diverse career paths in cyber security
One of the most appealing aspects of cyber security is the diversity of career paths available.
Some of the top roles in cyber security include:
- Cyber security analyst: Monitor networks, investigate security breaches, and implement solutions.
- Penetration tester (ethical hacker): Simulate cyber-attacks to identify system vulnerabilities.
- Cloud security specialist: Secure cloud-based systems and applications.
- Incident responder: React to and mitigate the effects of cyber-attacks.
- Chief information security officer (CISO): Oversee an organisation’s entire security strategy.
These roles often overlap with other tech disciplines, allowing for collaboration and innovation across sectors like data analysis and cloud computing.
Competitive salaries and global opportunities
A career in cyber security can also be extremely financially rewarding. In the UK, entry-level cyber security roles start at around £25,000–£35,000 annually, with experienced professionals earning upwards of £80,000 or more.
Additionally, cyber security is a global industry. As the digital economy grows, skilled professionals are in demand worldwide, opening doors to international career opportunities.
How to get started
Starting a career in cyber security doesn’t demand years of prior experience. Many successful professionals have transitioned from unrelated industries, using certifications to build the knowledge and credibility needed to enter the field.
Here are some steps to kick-start your cyber security journey:
- Understand the fundamentals: Learn the basics of networking, operating systems, and coding.
- Gain certifications: Industry-recognised certifications, such as CompTIA Security+, CISSP, and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), are essential for proving your expertise.
- Practical experience: Engage in hands-on training or personal projects to build your skills.
- Stay up to date: Cyber security is an everchanging field, so it’s important to stay in the loop on the latest trends and threats.
If you’re ready to explore how cyber security can transform your future, Learning People is here to guide you every step of the way. With expert advice, flexible training, and career preparation, we’ll help you unlock your potential in one of the decade’s most exciting industries.
Ready to get started? Discover Learning People’s cyber security courses today and take the first step towards a fulfilling career in cyber security.