What states have the largest emerging cybersecurity field?
Im looking to go where I will be able to collaborate with the mosst amount of professionals in my field and make the most money, what states am i most likely to achieve that in? #cyber-security #security #network-security
6 answers
Mervin’s Answer
Michael’s Answer
Cyber security has moved well beyond the "emerging" stage. It is today a very dynamic and challenging field as there are more jobs than there are individuals possessing the skills to work in this area. There is a strong need for cyber security skills literally all across the United States. Clearly there will be more opportunities for employment and collaboration in the most populous states (California, New York, Illinois, etc.). However, I think focusing on states might be the wrong target. I would recommend focusing on industries that heavily rely on cyber security. Industries such as banking, finance, utilities, communications, hospitals, universities and many, many more require highly capable individuals with extensive cyber security skills. You should focus on an industry that is of interest to you and no matter which one that happens to be, there will absolutely be a need for cyber security specialists.
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Joshua’s Answer
I can tell you from experience that Texas needs alot of security professionals with the largest markets in Dallas, Houston, and Austin. Austin tends to be where alot of the security tool vendors are located. Houston and Dallas both are in great need of people as alot of companies are just starting to stand up security teams. Personally I would steer away from the Oil/Gas industry companies to potentially have better job security. I don't know of anyone in security that has been cut yet but seems there is a trend of the security professionlas being hired as contractors instead of full-time employees. Regarding money, that will come with experience. Learning has been more of a priority for me and I have been in security just over 4 years and have easily doubled my income. If you are only looking for the money and not passionate about security it will soon be evident to your peers. I will give you one last word of advice and when you go for an interview you will most likely be asked what projects you're working on and/or describe your home lab. If you do not have one you will not be considered to be a top candidate as the ones who are most passionate experiment/test things often. Its not an easy road to get up the ladder but with hard work it will pay off. Good luck
vishaka’s Answer
Table 2. Data used for meta ranking for top rated
educational institutions
Number of
ratings
Number of
first choice
ratings
Average
survey score
University of Texas, San Antonio 98 90 9.40
Norwich University 69 63 9.20
Mississippi State University 78 67 9.00
Syracuse University 78 70 8.80
Carnegie Mellon University 80 69 8.80
Purdue University 63 44 9.00
University of Southern California 116 57 8.80
University of Pittsburgh 71 66 8.60
George Mason University 91 75 8.60
West Chester University of Pennsylvania 57 45 8.60
U.S. Military Academy, West Point 21 13 9.00
University of Washington 81 40 8.40
Glenn’s Answer
Now to the final point: It does not matter what city you move to, you will have cyber professionals there as well. Just look for the local cons and network out. Dallas, st louis, Atlanta, Austin, San antonio... all of these cities have cyber cons. I'm sure other cities have them as well.
Note: I don't think anyone can honestly answer which state has the most "emerging" cyber because states are always in flux. Good luck!
Monique’s Answer
That's a great question you asked, and to put in plainly. The Entire World is hiring. Companies, all industries including healthcare, financial, Gov't. Everyone has assets that need to be protected. And they are looking for individuals like yourself who understand what's at stake, and continue to keep abreast of the latest trends in regards to Cyber Security and continue to educate themselves.
Actual States I would say Washington DC, Virginia , Maryland, Georgia, Texas, New York, etc...
Also remember, the security position your hired for may be physically located in Irvine, California Atlanta and you can still live in Boston, Massachusetts it all depends.
Good luck,
Monique Clarke