Microsoft Cybersecurity and Certification Scholarship

The demand for cybersecurity skills is growing rapidly as emerging tech introduces new security, compliance, and identity challenges. ISC2’s most recent study estimates the cybersecurity workforce gap at 4 million and that “despite the continued growth in the [cybersecurity] workforce… the demand is still outpacing supply.” 1 out of every 20 open jobs in America today is a job that requires cybersecurity skills; furthermore, every projection shows cybersecurity jobs will continue to increase in the coming years. Acknowledging this growing demand, and the underrepresentation of women in cybersecurity, Women In Cloud, in partnership with Microsoft, is launching the Microsoft Cybersecurity Certification Scholarship Program.

This initiative provides Microsoft Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certifications and a DevSecOps Peer-to-Peer Mentoring Network, designed to equip women for high-demand entry- to mid-level cybersecurity positions. The alignment of Microsoft Certifications with the market’s actual needs offers us significant benefits, including job promotions, opportunities for upskilling, enhanced job satisfaction, and increased confidence in our professional capabilities. Reflecting on the insights from ISC2’s 2023 research, it’s evident that such certifications are instrumental in advancing our careers within the tech industry, paving the way for a more diverse and inclusive cybersecurity workforce.