Leading IT solutions provider CMTG has committed to paving the way for more women to start a career in cybersecurity, as new statistics highlighted the lack of women in the industry.
A recent report into Australia’s cybersecurity industry found only 16% of cybersecurity professionals are women – a figure CMTG Director Mia Filpo says isn’t surprising.
“Whilst this figure is considerably higher than it was a decade ago, more can be done to inspire the next generation of women to join this ever-changing industry,” Mia said.
“I think there has been a lack of awareness and negative perceptions around cybersecurity which have deterred females from wanting to pursue a career in this sector.
“That’s why it’s incredibly important to engage with women as soon as they begin their higher education and highlight the opportunities available to them in the cybersecurity space.”
At CMTG, more than 10% of the workforce are women working in a variety of roles, ranging from administration to engineering.
The Australian company is determined to boost the female employee ratio, but as Mia explains, there are limited candidates with the appropriate skillset.
“We are finding that female candidates are either too junior or too skilled for the positions available,” Mia said.
“Finding staff with the correct training is difficult but finding women with the correct qualifications is even harder.
“Women play a huge role in the success of cybersecurity businesses because they bring different skillsets, knowledge and perspectives which are vital in creating comprehensive cybersecurity strategies.”
The current underrepresentation of women in cybersecurity businesses has been attributed to historical stereotypes, lack of female role models and perceived barriers of entry.
Mia hopes days like International Women in Cyber Day on 1 September will improve awareness of both the achievements of women in the cybersecurity space and the issues they face in a male-dominated industry.
“As a female director of a tech business, I know the importance of ensuring we provide accessible pathways for women to thrive in this industry,” Mia says.
“At CMTG, we are focused on equality and inclusion across all areas of our business, and are committed to the recruitment and retention of women.
“I look forward to welcoming more women into this exciting and evolving industry and encourage all women to consider forging a career in technology.”
