Education stands as a key driver for the advancement of Latin American societies, particularly in the field of cybersecurity. With governments, businesses, and entities across various economic sectors increasingly seeking professionals to safeguard their digital assets, education becomes the conduit for acquiring the necessary knowledge and skills. This is crucial, especially in protecting highly sensitive information, such as that pertaining to critical infrastructures, and staying one step ahead of cybercriminals.

The rapid development and adoption of new technologies in Latin American countries, coupled with an increased reliance on digital media, have ushered in more sophisticated cyber-attacks. Education plays a vital role in preparing professionals, irrespective of their backgrounds, in cybersecurity best practices to ensure the security and resilience of digital systems.

Reports from ISC2, a leading non-profit organization for cybersecurity professionals, estimate a global cybersecurity workforce shortage of 4 million people by 2023, with over 700,000 open positions in Latin America and the Caribbean (Cisco Networking Academy). In response, the educational communities of countries like Mexico, Chile, Argentina, and Brazil have focused on developing new specialized educational programs, including technical degrees, undergraduate and postgraduate courses, to train future cybersecurity professionals. The most sought-after programs align with the market's high demand for roles and capabilities in secure development (DevSecOps), cybersecurity analysis, digital forensics, network security, and cloud security.

In the face of constantly evolving cyber threats, the cybersecurity field has had to adapt under high-complexity frameworks, requiring professionals capable of swiftly analyzing information to make assertive and timely decisions. Consequently, cybersecurity educational programs have shifted towards more dynamic learning models, allowing students to stay informed about emerging risks, new methodologies, frameworks/systems (such as NIST, COBIT, and ISO/IEC 27000), and strategies for developing cyber defense and resilience capabilities. Success in this industry requires cybersecurity students to possess the ability to adapt, learn, and anticipate potential threats.

To promote cybersecurity education in Latin America and as part of the Seccuri Awards, a competition launched by Seccuri in early October to recognize the best cybersecurity educators in Mexico, on November 21, we will have the opportunity to interview Marcos Polanco, Executive Director of Cybersecurity and Innovation, and CISO of Scitum, a leading cybersecurity company in Mexico. With over 20 years of professional experience, Marcos has led various managerial roles, leveraging his extensive expertise in security, network, and systems management. Beyond his degree in Cybernetics and Computational Systems from the Universidad La Salle, he holds a Master's in Innovation and Entrepreneurship, a Diploma in Strategic Management from ITAM, and specializations in Senior Management from IPADE. Marcos currently leads teams in designing strategies, implementing solutions, and managing information security infrastructure, applying innovative practices to protect critical assets across diverse sectors. Additionally, he has over 5 years of experience as a lecturer in the Master's in Cybersecurity program at the Universidad La Salle in Mexico.

In our upcoming webinar "Seccuri Session: Driving Cybersecurity Talent Through Education," we will engage with Marcos, discussing his experience as a cybersecurity educator, emphasizing the skills or areas of knowledge that students should prioritize for success in this field, and sharing some of his valuable tips to become a highly competitive and distinguished professional.

Register now for our next Seccuri Session and learn from one of Mexico's most renowned cybersecurity experts to elevate your cybersecurity career!

Registration Link: http://bit.ly/3QA2CDX 

Sources: ISC2, Cisco Networking Academy, Seccuri