Address livable wage gap 
I'm Looking to Hire
As companies are facing a cyber security resource shortage, experienced and qualified talent is harder to come by. Take the burden of finding the right resources off your team — we find the right resources based on your organization's goals and needs.
I'd Like To Be a Partner
Our partner network makes this program possible. From helping to identify students, to providing volunteer mentors, supplying projects for participants, or engaging your networks as hiring organizations, we are always looking for new partners.
I'm a Student
We look for candidates with specific aptitudes rather than specific experience or backgrounds. You don’t need technical skills to start your career in cyber security. If you’re a quick learner, work well in teams, and think logically, you have what it takes.
OVERVIEW
How it works
Phase 0
Introductory Roadmap Sessions
Connect with us online to learn more about the program and how it can help you start your cyber career.
Phase 1
Identifying and Sourcing Candidates
We source candidates from partners such as United Way, Women Helping Women, and other community groups, as well as individuals who are interested in entering the cyber security industry.
Phase 2
Foundations Class
Chosen participants take part in a four-week foundational training taught by a member of CISOSHARE’s security team to give candidates background information on the industry and skills they need to be successful in an organization.
Phase 3
Internship
Selected participants complete an internship with mentorship from security professionals at CISOSHARE. Interns receive hands-on training in some of the most critical roles in cyber security.
Phase 4
Next Level Classes
After completing the foundations class and internship, participants are encouraged to take next level classes at California State University, Fullerton. These classes are geared toward people who want to further their knowledge and role-related skills.
Why Was It Created?
CyberForward Academy by CISOSHARE is an ecosystem of people working together today to develop the talent of cyber security tomorrow. This partner-enabled professional development program identifies and rapidly develops effective, job-ready cyber security professionals.
Our mission is to solve the cyber security resource shortage and bridging the skills gap. CyberForward Academy is designed to tackle both of these issues by removing common roadblocks to employment while connecting organizations to a large pool of untapped talent.
CyberForward Academy brings together individuals, hiring organizations, and community partners to make Orange County a leader in cyber security development.
63%
of polled organizations are suffering through a shortage of cyber security staff. — ISC2 Workforce Study
28%
of companies have what they consider the right amount of cyber security staff. — ISC2 Workforce Study
37%
of experts state lack of skilled cyber security personnel as a top concern. — Center for Strategic International Studies
Benefits
CyberForward Academy helps everyone involved, from participants, to community partners, to hiring organizations.
Help Solve the Wage Gap
Bring more opportunities to skilled individuals in the community to help them bring home a livable wage.
Making Orange County a Cyber Hub
Join a network of community partners dedicated to developing cyber talent throughout Orange County.
Relevant Skills
Participants learn both technical and interpersonal skills needed to be successful in different cyber security roles.
Job-Ready Cyber Professionals
Participants in CyberForward Academy have the knowledge and experience for in-demand cyber security jobs.
Empowering Individuals and Organizations
Learn more about the success of our CyberForward interns with one of our first supporters and hiring partners, Pacific Life.
"CyberForward filled an important gap in bringing new cyber security resources to Pacific Life’s Cybersecurity team. We looked at the different skillsets that
Scott
Director GRC, Pacific Life
Join the Class
Learn more about whether CyberForward Academy is the right fit for you and your cyber career goals. Find out when the next class is coming.
Program Details
Interested in cyber security and CyberForward Academy? Get in touch with our team to learn more and build a roadmap for your journey into cyber security.
Powered by Our Partners
CyberForward Academy works closely with community partners to identify talented individuals throughout Orange County.
Find our Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to commonly asked questions about CyberForward Academy.