Cybersecurity sector suffering from skill gaps, stress
EDENBURG, SOUTH AFRICA — The cyber security profession faces significant challenges due to skills shortages and high-stress levels, said Anna Collard, Senior Vice President of Content Strategy at security awareness platform KnowBe4 Africa.
Despite abundant job opportunities in the field, Collard noted that there are not enough qualified professionals to fill them, creating ongoing job security anxiety within the technology industry.
She also emphasized that cyber security professionals are grappling with demanding roles that require constant vigilance, leaving little time for rest.
“Cyber security professionals are juggling high-demand jobs that are intensely stressful, and they rarely switch off. Security is a 24/7 job where nobody notices the hard work done until something goes wrong,” Collard stated.
This burden is taking a toll on mental health, with the Tines State of Mental Health in Cybersecurity 2022 report indicating that a significant percentage of professionals experienced declining mental health, stress, and medication usage.
Collard argues that the conversation in the industry needs to shift from simply addressing skills gaps to prioritizing the overall well-being of cybersecurity professionals.
“If you want to attract more people into cyber security, you need to put controls in place that minimize the stress and emphasize the value of your people,” Collard added.
By creating a healthier work environment, the industry can address the challenges of skills shortages and nurture a more sustainable and fulfilling cybersecurity profession.
