Cybersecurity has become one of the fastest-growing sectors worldwide, yet talent demand far outpaces supply, with over 450,000 unfilled cybersecurity positions in the U.S. alone. These high-paying careers offer tremendous upward mobility and wealth-building opportunities for those with cybersecurity skills and motivation.
Founded in 2015 near Scott Air Force Base, CyberUp addresses this gap by creating accessible, inclusive pathways to cybersecurity careers for youth and adults. We’re committed to developing the cybersecurity workforce through both traditional education and non-traditional pathways, like apprenticeships, training, and certifications, which provide alternative routes to employment and are gaining momentum among employers.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 32% increase in cybersecurity job growth over the next decade, totaling over 700,000 additional positions. As college degrees become less critical to hiring managers, hands-on skills and technical training are more crucial than ever. This shift not only increases available talent but also expands access to high-paying jobs for veterans, women, and people of color, helping to meet our nation’s urgent need for cyber defenders.
CyberUp’s approach is unique: we spark interest as early as Kindergarten with cybersecurity education to inspire the next generation. Our PowerUp program guides youth toward cybersecurity as a career, while our LevelUp Training and Apprenticeship programs recruit, train, and place adults into paid, registered apprenticeships. These efforts ensure that today’s networks—and those of tomorrow—are in capable hands.