Breaking Into Cybersecurity: Essential Skills and Certifications in Kansas City

The cybersecurity job market in Kansas City is absolutely blazing right now. According to a recent study, Missouri currently has over 16,000 unfilled cybersecurity job openings, with Kansas City accounting for a massive chunk of these opportunities.

Projections from the Bureau of Labor Statistics show that information security analysts are the fifth fastest-growing profession for employment between 2022 and 2032.

Talk about a skyrocketing demand!

The tech industry in Kansas City is absolutely exploding, and cybersecurity is playing a pivotal role in this expansion.

Major players like Cerner, Garmin, and Sprint have their headquarters right here in the region, driving the demand for skilled cybersecurity experts through the roof.

As these companies strive to protect their digital assets and sensitive info, the need for qualified professionals is only going to keep climbing. Check out this list of the top cybersecurity companies in Kansas City – it's a goldmine of potential employers.

Kansas City's strategic location and robust infrastructure have made it an attractive hub for tech companies, further cementing its status as a cybersecurity career mecca.

As the city continues to invest in its tech ecosystem, the opportunities for aspiring cybersecurity pros are endless. The Kansas Public Sector Cybersecurity Summit and Kansas Cyber Summit bring together industry leaders to address the most pressing cybersecurity issues facing the public sector today.

The cybersecurity game in Kansas City is on fire! With all the data breaches and cyber threats nowadays, skilled security pros are in crazy demand. According to recent trends, the cybersecurity job market is popping off, making KC the place to be.

The MCC Cybersecurity Center is a dope resource for cyber-awareness and training the next wave of security experts.

To crush it in this field, you gotta have a diverse skill set.

We're talking technical skills like programming (Python, Java, C++), network security, ethical hacking, and digital forensics. But it's not just about the tech stuff – critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and data analysis are key.

And with the rise of cloud, AI/ML, and IoT, you better be ready to level up your skills in those areas too. The Security Analyst job listing at Honeywell highlights the need for solid analytical and communication abilities.

• Diverse skill set: You need technical skills in programming, network security, ethical hacking, and digital forensics.
• Beyond tech skills: Critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and data analysis are essential.
• Embrace new technologies: Be prepared to learn about cloud, AI/ML, and IoT for future readiness.

Luckily, KC has plenty of opportunities to get trained up.

Check out the cybersecurity programs at UMKC and bootcamps like KU Cybersecurity Boot Camp. These programs cover everything from network security to ethical hacking, preparing you for certifications like Security+, Network+, and CEH. Plus, you can connect with the cybersecurity community through groups like KC CISSN for workshops and networking events.

The future of cybersecurity is bright in KC, so get ready to secure that bag!

If you're trying to break into the cybersecurity game in Kansas City, you gotta get these certifications on lock. They're like the keys to unlock all the dope opportunities in this booming industry.

Here are the ones that'll make you stand out: CompTIA Security+, Cisco certs like CCNA CyberOps and CCNA Security, and CompTIA CASP+ and PenTest+.

These bad boys show you know your stuff when it comes to securing networks, identifying threats, and ethical hacking.

There are so many dope places in KC that'll help you prep for these exams and get certified.

Like CentrIQ, they've got this Cybersecurity Specialist Program that's all about prepping you for certs like Security+ and Microsoft Azure Fundamentals. And there's Covered 6 Security Academy, where you can learn from legit industry vets and even get hands-on experience with stuff like Kali Linux and war-gaming as a Red Team hacker (legally, of course).

But don't sleep on the academic side either.

UMKC has this Cybersecurity Certificate program that covers all the essentials, from risk management to incident response. And KU offers a grad certificate in Information Security and Assurance that'll level up your knowledge in areas like security policies, auditing, and cyber law.

With the right training and these key certifications under your belt, you'll be ready to snag one of those in-demand cybersecurity roles and start protecting the digital world like a boss.

When it comes to cybersecurity, networking is key if you want to level up your career and stay on top of the latest threats. Kansas City is a cool hub for tech and cybersecurity, so there are plenty of opportunities to connect with pros in the field and learn from the best.

A study by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) found that nearly 80% of cybersecurity experts say networking is crucial for career growth and staying ahead of new cyber risks.

Kansas City has a vibrant scene for cybersecurity events and meetups where you can mingle with industry experts and expand your network.

Here are some of the notable networking opportunities happening in 2024:

• SecureKC: This monthly meetup is all about cybersecurity education, best practices, and discussions on the latest trends and threats. It's hosted by local security gurus, giving you a chance to network and exchange insights with fellow professionals.
• Kansas City Cybersecurity Conference: This annual two-day event is a big deal, featuring renowned speakers, hands-on workshops, and exhibitors showcasing the latest cybersecurity solutions. You can network with your peers, industry leaders, and potential employers while you're there.
• Women in Cybersecurity (WiCyS) KC Chapter: This group is dedicated to recruiting, retaining, and advancing women in the cybersecurity field. They offer mentorship, training, and networking events, providing a supportive community and opportunities for career development.

Organizations like the Kansas City Chapter of the Information Systems Security Association (ISSA) and the Kansas City Cyber Security Alliance (KCCSA) also host seminars, workshops, and social events regularly, giving you more chances to connect with others in the field.

As cybersecurity expert Brian Krebs said,

"Building relationships and sharing knowledge within the cybersecurity community is essential for staying ahead of the curve and mitigating risks effectively."

Kansas City is blowing up as a prime spot for young cybersecurity hustlers looking to level up their careers and cash flow. The job market out here is crazy hot, with companies scrambling to hire dope talent to lock down their digital assets.

According to the research, demand for information security analysts is projected to skyrocket by 35% nationwide by 2031.

That's insane growth, and you know KC is riding that wave hard. Major players like Cerner, Sprint, and AMC Theatres are all beefing up their cybersecurity squads, which means tons of opportunities for us young guns to get in the game.

If you're just starting out, KC has some sweet entry-level gigs with salaries to match.

According to PayScale, the average Information Security Analyst salary in KC is around $73K per year, and seasoned vets can rake in over $106K annually.

That's some serious coin for doing what we love. Companies currently hiring for cybersecurity roles include Cerner, Sprint, AMC Theatres, Garmin, and H&R Block.

With the job market projected to grow 35% by 2024, thanks to KC's booming tech scene and focus on cybersecurity education, this city is a goldmine for young pros looking to build long-term careers in this field.

And don't forget to check out Nucamp's breakdown of the top cybersecurity employers and what they're looking for in candidates.

The future is bright in KC, so let's get out there and secure the bag!