Category: Cybersecurity

San Diego Cybersecurity Leaders Tackle Talent Gap Amid Rising Cyber Threats

Posted on by Sharla Schuller

The Growing Threat Landscape

Cybersecurity is no longer an IT concern; it’s a critical business imperative. FBI data reveals a staggering 150% increase in cybercrime complaints over the past five years, translating to $37 billion in losses. Couple this with IBM’s report of a $4.88 million average cost per data breach, and the financial implications become clear. Small and medium-sized businesses, the backbone of San Diego’s economy, are particularly vulnerable.

The Talent Crisis

The challenge is compounded by a severe talent shortage and the rapid evolution of required skills, driven by AI and other emerging technologies. With 457,000 cybersecurity job openings in the U.S. and 5,500 in San Diego alone (Cyberseek.org), organizations are struggling to build robust defenses. Moreover, only 14% of organizations are confident they have the necessary skills to meet cybersecurity objectives (WEF). As Journeys Map CEO, Peter Sibley notes, “It has never been more important for Cybersecurity employers to communicate the skills they need currently and as these needs change in the incredibly dynamic environment they operate. AI is literally changing everything.”

Panel Discussion Highlights

Key Insights:

  • Skills Matching: The importance of skills matching to optimize existing talent pipelines.
  • Strategic Workforce Development: Tanner advised organizations to develop strategic workforce plans to leverage untapped potential. 
  • Collaborative Partnerships: Journeys Map works with the military, educational institutions, and employers to create a diverse talent pool.

A recent CCOE panel, featuring industry leaders including one of our very own, Erin Tanner, Client Services Specialist at Journeys Map, Dr. Lance Larson, Co-Director of the Graduate Program in Homeland Security at SDSU and Co-Director of the San Diego Cyber Clinic, and Captain Jonathan Patrick, Cyber Network Operations Officer, Marine Corps Installations West, addressed these critical issues.

Dr. Lance Larson’s Insights

Dr. Larson brought his expertise on emerging threats and AI-driven cybersecurity to the forefront. He emphasized the urgency of proactive defensive strategies, particularly in light of AI’s potential to automate and amplify cyberattacks. “We need to put up those defensive strategies now,” Dr. Larson stated, highlighting the need for robust safeguards and countermeasures. 

Captain Jonathan Patrick’s Perspective

Captain Patrick provided a unique perspective, focusing on the challenges of securing legacy systems and the Marine Corps’ shift to a zero-trust architecture. He stressed the importance of adapting mindsets to the evolving cyber landscape. “We are moving towards zero-trust architecture and having that mindset of ‘Never trust, always verify’,” Captain Patrick explained, emphasizing the need for continuous verification of identities and devices. He also highlighted the importance of updated skill sets and cyber resiliency, noting that a security breach is “not a matter of if, it’s a matter of when.”

Journeys Map: Bridging the Talent Gap

Erin Tanner highlighted Journeys Map’s role in addressing the talent shortage and the need for agile upskilling. Journeys Map’s platform is designed to translate employer skill needs to applicants and organizations, providing essential upskilling and connecting individuals with personalized career pathways, aligning their strengths and interests with in-demand cybersecurity roles.  

“We offer a sustainable, cost-effective solution,” Tanner explained, detailing Journeys Map’s Employer Recruitment Platform. This platform leverages intelligent landing pages, reverse skill matching, and comprehensive talent ecosystem management to build robust talent pipelines. As Peter states, “We are working to make 2025 a watershed year to grow a sustainable and agile cybersecurity talent pipeline.”

The Journeys Impact:

Journeys Map’s approach enables organizations to build a resilient cybersecurity workforce, reducing time-to-hire and expanding access to skilled talent.

Optimize your cybersecurity talent pipeline. Schedule a Journeys Map demonstration to learn how. Schedule Your Demonstration today!

To delve deeper into the discussion and explore San Diego’s cybersecurity resources, listen to the full panel discussion.

Journeys Map: A Month of Empowering San Diego’s Future

Posted on by Sharla Schuller

From the cutting-edge of cybersecurity to the wonder of STEAM discovery, Journeys Map painted a vivid picture of career pathways across San Diego last month.

The San Diego Cyber Summit 2025 brought together the brightest minds in cybersecurity, and Journeys Map was in attendance to learn the latest from industry experts on the evolving landscape. We shared about Journeys Map as a personalized guide, meeting professionals and organizations where they are and supporting them in their unique journeys. This message resonated deeply, fostering conversations about talent pipeline development and skill gap analysis. The cybersecurity summit displayed how Journeys Map is a valuable tool for professionals and organizations alike, and we were excited to show how it can be used for people of all ages at the San Diego Festival of Science and Engineering.

The San Diego Festival of Science and Engineering was a vibrant celebration of STEAM education, and Journeys Map proudly represented the San Diego Cyber Center of Excellence. Erin hosted a table in the Cybersecurity Zone, an interactive space where attendees of all ages could dive into the fundamentals of online safety, ethical hacking, and cyber defense.

“The San Diego Festival of Science and Engineering aims to make learning exciting and accessible for all ages by immersing kids and adults in STEAM education,” says Sara Pagano, Managing Director, San Diego Festival of Science & Engineering. 

Journeys Map seamlessly complemented the other exhibits in the Cybersecurity Zone. We provided a holistic view of cybersecurity pathways, enabling attendees to visualize their potential careers within the field. Being positioned alongside San Diego’s ISACA chapter, which focuses on professional development and best practices, further enhanced our impact.

From curious K-12 students to aspiring computer science majors and seasoned professionals, we engaged with a diverse audience. One particularly impactful interaction involved a transitioning military service member enrolled in National University’s cybersecurity program. She experienced a moment of profound clarity when she could visualize her current skills and educational progress, validating her military experience and academic achievements within the context of the broader cybersecurity landscape. 

The Classroom of the Future Foundation’s 8th Annual, “College and Career Pathways Summit” provided a valuable platform for business and education leaders to explore best CTE practices and innovative technologies. As an annual supporter of CFF and this event, Journeys Map found that the conversations and innovations discussed were perfectly aligned with its mission to bridge the gap between education and the world of work. By providing exposure to diverse career pathways and fostering a deeper understanding of industry needs, Journeys Map empowers students to take control of their future.

Across all events, Journeys Map aimed to instill a sense of empowerment and clarity. We showcased Journeys Map as a personalized guide, meeting individuals and organizations where they are and supporting them in their unique journeys. Whether facilitating talent pipeline development for businesses, illuminating career pathways for students, or bridging the gap between education and industry, Journeys Map provides agency, clarity, and confidence. Our goal was for attendees to understand that they can take control of their future, both individually and as a company, with the support of Journeys Map.

This past month has been a testament to the power of collaboration and the importance of empowering individuals to pursue their passions. We are excited to continue building connections and supporting the San Diego community through Journeys Map.

Ready to explore how Journeys Map can support your organization? Schedule a demonstration by contacting Erin Tanner, Client Services Specialist.

Building a 21st Century Talent Pipeline

Posted on by Sharla Schuller

The Firms of Endearment Approach to Cybersecurity Workforce Development

In today’s fast-changing cybersecurity world, organizations face a critical challenge: building and maintaining a skilled workforce in an increasingly competitive market. The traditional approach of reactive hiring isn’t just costly—it’s unsustainable. Forward-thinking companies are adopting a Firms of Endearment (FoE) philosophy, recognizing that investing in talent pipeline development isn’t just good for society—it’s good for business.

The FoE Advantage in Cybersecurity

Firms of Endearment are companies that create value for all stakeholders—employees, customers, suppliers, communities, and shareholders. These organizations prioritize purpose alongside profit, leading to sustainable business success. In cybersecurity, where the talent gap continues to widen, the FoE approach to talent pipeline development offers compelling advantages.

Business Impact

  • Recruitment Efficiency:  Traditional recruitment in cybersecurity involves significant costs in time and resources
  • Enhanced Retention: FoEs typically experience lower turnover rates through stronger employee engagement
  • Improved Productivity: Engaged employees demonstrate higher levels of productivity and innovation
  • Sustainable Growth:  Companies following FoE principles show consistent long-term performance

The Journey’s Map Solution: Aligning FoE Principles with Talent Development

Journeys Map’s innovative platform enables cybersecurity companies to embrace FoE principles while building their talent pipeline through:

1. Stakeholder Integration

  • Connect with educational institutions and training providers
  • Engage with community organizations
  • Build relationships with potential candidates early in their career journey
  • Create value for the broader cybersecurity ecosystem

2. Technology-Driven Efficiency

  • AI-powered career pathing streamlines recruitment processes
  • Real-time skills gap analysis improves training effectiveness
  • Automated matching algorithms enhance screening efficiency
  • Cloud-based platform scales with organizational growth

3. Value Creation

Direct Benefits:

  • Streamlined recruitment processes
  • More efficient training programs
  • Faster hiring cycles
  • Improved employee retention

Long-term Value:

  • Enhanced employer brand value
  • Improved workforce diversity
  • Stronger community relationships
  • Greater market competitiveness

The Business Case for Purpose-Driven Talent Development

Companies implementing Journeys Map’s FoE-aligned approach experience:

  1. Operational Improvements
    • More efficient recruitment processes
    • Higher employee retention rates
    • Faster time-to-productivity
    • Increased employee engagement
  2. Operational Benefits
    • Expanded talent pool
    • Stronger pipeline of qualified candidates
    • Better skills alignment
    • Improved succession planning
  3. Strategic Advantages
    • Enhanced industry reputation
    • Stronger educational partnerships
    • Better positioning for future workforce needs
    • Increased market adaptability

Building Tomorrow’s Workforce Today

The cybersecurity talent gap presents not just a hiring challenge, but a strategic opportunity. Organizations that embrace the FoE approach to talent pipeline development through Journeys Map’s platform are positioned to:

  • Create sustainable competitive advantages
  • Build stronger community relationships
  • Optimize operational efficiency
  • Improve workforce quality and retention

Measurable Impact

Organizations using Journeys Map’s platform can track improvements in key areas:

  • Time-to-hire efficiency
  • Recruitment cost optimization
  • Candidate quality
  • Workforce diversity
  • Employee satisfaction

The Path Forward

In the 21st century, cybersecurity companies must view talent development as a strategic investment rather than a cost center. By adopting Journeys Map’s FoE-aligned approach, organizations can:

  1. Transform talent pipeline development into a strategic advantage
  2. Create measurable returns on workforce development
  3. Build stronger relationships with all stakeholders
  4. Position themselves for sustainable growth

The most successful cybersecurity companies of tomorrow will be those that invest in their talent pipeline today. Through Journeys Map’s platform, organizations can align their talent development strategies with FoE principles, creating value for all stakeholders while building the workforce they need to thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape.

Ready to transform your approach to talent pipeline development? Discover how Journeys Map can help your organization become a true Firm of Endearment while building a sustainable competitive advantage in the cybersecurity talent market. Reach out to us today to learn more.

How Journeys Map is Solving the Reskilling and Upskilling Crisis

Posted on by Sharla Schuller

The Growing Skills Emergency and Opportunity

The global economy is experiencing an unprecedented talent shortage, with an estimated $8.5 trillion gap by 2030. This isn’t just a challenge—it’s a call to action for organizations ready to adopt innovative approaches to workforce development.

Understanding the Skills Gap

More than 87% of companies either currently face skill shortages now or expect to in the near future. As workplace skill requirements evolve—having already shifted by 25% since 2015 and expected to change by 50% in the next four years—businesses must take decisive steps to adapt.

Balancing Technology with Human Potential

Industry expert Dr. Tran highlights an important truth: while technology is essential, success depends on keeping people at the center of the transformation. “Shifting to a skills-based organization means putting skills at the heart of all talent practices,” she explains. “This includes hiring, development, internal mobility, and rewards.”

Three Strategic Pillars for Successful Upskilling

1. Defining the Purpose (The Why)

Organizations must clearly articulate their upskilling objectives:

  • Maintaining competitive advantage
  • Driving profit growth
  • Building organizational resilience
  • Attracting and retaining top talent

2. Identifying Skill Needs (The Who)

Modern skill development requires:

  • Forward-looking job descriptions that anticipate future needs
  • Recognition of emerging skills through peer feedback
  • Identification of natural mentors and learning champions
  • Understanding of existing skill gaps

3. Implementation Strategy (The How)

Research indicates that 70% of skill development occurs through on-the-job learning (source: McKinsey). Journeys Map facilitates this through:

How Journeys Map Helps Close the Skills Gap

Journeys Map is built to address the challenges organizations face in workforce development, offering:

Comprehensive Skill Development Platform

AI-Powered Career Navigation

  • Interactive tools for personalized career planning
  • Real-time skill gap analysis
  • Future-focused development paths

Culture of Continuous Learning

Collaborative Learning Environment

  • Peer recognition systems
  • Knowledge sharing platforms
  • Cross-functional skill development

Flexible Implementation

Customizable Solutions

  • Industry-specific career pathways
  • Scalable deployment options
  • Integration with existing systems

Supporting Employee Retention Through Growth

One of the biggest reasons employees leave their jobs is the lack of professional development opportunities. Journeys Map tackles this by:

  • Creating visible career progression paths
  • Providing immediate access to learning resources
  • Connecting skill development to tangible rewards
  • Facilitating internal mobility opportunities

Preparing for the Future of Work

As technology, particularly AI, reshapes the workplace, agile skill development is more critical than ever. Journeys Map offers:

  • Adaptive learning pathways
  • Real-time skill tracking
  • Proactive gap analysis
  • Comprehensive progress monitoring

See how Journeys Map can transform your workforce—Schedule Your Free Trial.

Invest in Your Team’s Growth

The future of work requires a proactive approach to upskilling and reskilling. Organizations that embrace solutions like Journeys Map can:

  • Navigate the talent shortage successfully
  • Build resilient, adaptable teams
  • Create engaging employee experiences
  • Drive sustainable growth

By combining technological innovation with human-centered design, Journeys Map offers organizations the tools they need to transform their workforce development strategies and thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape.

Empower your workforce today—Contact Us to learn more.

Powering San Diego’s Cybersecurity Future: Celebrating CCOE’s 10-Year Anniversary

Posted on by Sharla Schuller

A Decade of Transformative Impact

As the Cyber Center of Excellence (CCOE) celebrates its milestone 10-year anniversary, we’re proud to highlight its role in shaping San Diego into a hub of cyber innovation. Under the visionary leadership of CEO Lisa Easterly, CCOE has driven remarkable growth: expanding the region’s cyber firms tenfold, supporting 26,000 jobs, and generating $4 billion annually in economic impact.

Amid this progress, the challenge of unfilled cybersecurity positions remains. Journeys Map, in partnership with San Diego CCOE, is pioneering a fundamentally different approach. Instead of traditional “post and hope” job boards or disconnected training programs, we’ve created an innovative ecosystem that truly nurtures talent. Our platform empowers employers to actively develop their talent pipeline by identifying skills gaps, connecting candidates with targeted upskilling opportunities, and providing clear pathways to success. This human-centered approach transforms how companies invest in potential talent – moving beyond simple recruitment to create meaningful growth journeys for every individual in their pipeline. With San Diego’s cybersecurity talent growing 300%, Journeys Map’s approach to building career pathways and supporting individual growth isn’t just solving the talent gap – it’s creating a sustainable, thriving workforce ecosystem.

The Talent Gap: Challenges and Opportunities

Our region’s cybersecurity growth tells a compelling story:

  • Cyber jobs expanded from 6,600 in 2016 to nearly 14,000 in 2023
  • A remarkable 300% growth in local employment talent
  • 75% of local cyber firms reporting challenges in finding qualified talent at all levels

This rapid expansion highlights both the opportunities in our region and the challenges of addressing the talent gap.

Empowering San Diego’s Cybersecurity Workforce

We are deeply honored to be recognized by the San Diego Business Journal with the 2024 Cybersecurity Stewardship Award for Workforce Development. As San Diego’s leading cybersecurity career exploration system, Journeys Map is proud to support regional employers with streamlined career discovery and advancement tools that power their teams’ growth journeys.

Discover how Journeys Map can elevate your workforce. Request a Demo Today.

Designed for San Diego’s Cybersecurity Needs

Our platform addresses the unique challenges faced by cybersecurity employers and professionals in San Diego:

  • Enabling employee career growth through interactive tools
  • Supporting employers in building robust talent pipelines
  • Creating clear pathways for career advancement
  • Facilitating regional workforce development

Our Commitment to San Diego’s Cybersecurity Community

As we celebrate this milestone with CCOE, Journeys Map remains focused on:

  • Supporting regional employers’ workforce development needs
  • Nurturing local cybersecurity talent
  • Creating accessible career pathways
  • Strengthening the connection between talent and opportunity

The past decade has demonstrated the power of collaboration and innovation in San Diego’s cybersecurity sector. As we look to the future, Journeys Map will continue to evolve and enhance our platform to meet the growing needs of our regional employers and their teams. 

Let’s Talk Solutions: Schedule a personalized demonstration and discover how Journeys Map can help you overcome talent acquisition hurdles and power your team’s growth. Reach out today and take the first step towards building a more resilient, innovative cybersecurity workforce.

Sources: ISC2/WEF 2023 Cybersecurity Workforce Study, Cyberseek (August 2024), CCOE & EDC Reports