"There is a critical skills gap in the industry, which has enormous implications for businesses and individuals alike," said Dara Warn, INE Security's CEO. "We are working to partner with higher education institutions to close that gap, rewrite the book on how to prepare cybersecurity students, and ultimately reinforce the entire industry's strength and security."

According to the team, in a world where digital threats transcend borders, the need for robust cybersecurity education has never been more critical. Universities around the globe are stepping up, recognizing that their role in preparing the next generation of cybersecurity experts is crucial not only for national security but also for maintaining global competitiveness. As cyber threats become more sophisticated, educational institutions are compelled to provide their students with the skills necessary to navigate and mitigate these risks effectively.

One of the most pressing reasons for advanced cybersecurity training is the sheer scale and global nature of cyber threats. According to the 2020 Cost of a Data Breach Report by IBM, the average total cost of a data breach globally reached $3.86 million, highlighting the severe economic impact of these incidents. This global threat landscape requires a workforce that is not only technically proficient but also equipped with a comprehensive understanding of international cybersecurity challenges.

INE Security + Columbus State University

Columbus State University (CSU) is a public university located in the southeastern United States, serving approximately 7,000 students annually. To address the growing demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals in Georgia, CSU launched the NEXUS program in 2017, driven by the state's identified shortage of 15,000-30,000 IT and cybersecurity professionals. The challenge was that CSU's cybersecurity education lacked hands-on labs and certification opportunities, making it difficult for students to gain practical skills and accredited certifications essential for the cybersecurity workforce.