Why we Need Women in Security Careers

Cross-posted from the AppSec USA blog

Security is one of the largest and most critical industries right now. In 2015, more than $75 billion was pumped into the industry to solve the most pressing security challenges – that’s up from $3.5 billion only 10 years prior, and is expected to reach $1 trillion by 2020. Yet, as the industry grows exponentially the workforce gap continues to widen. According to a recent study published by (ISC)2 and Frost & Sullivan, the workforce gap in the security industry is expected to reach 1.5 billion people by 2020. Even more alarming is the small percentage of women currently in the field – 10 percent!

The solution to filling the workforce gap seems simple – hire more women. It’s not that easy though. There are multiple barriers that prevent women from entering the field, including lack of education in primary schools and college, insufficient communication about job opportunities, and minimal internal training to encourage women to learn the skills needed for career changes and advancements.

OWASP’s Women in AppSec (WIA) initiative is aware of these barriers and is actively changing the status quo about women in security through research, education and mentorships. WIA encourages female students at the undergraduate and graduate levels, instructors, military personnel transitioning out of service, and professional working women to expand their skills and pursue a career in application and/or information security.

How You Can be Part of the Initiative
WIA has exciting events in store for AppSecUSA 2016 taking place in Washington, DC, October 11-14. Join us for unique opportunities to network with like-minded industry professionals and discuss the future of WIA events around the globe. Events include:

• Networking Reception: Meet like-minded industry professionals and make connections to help launch or expand your career in the security industry
  October 12 @ 5:00pm
  Renaissance Hotel
• Mentoring Luncheon: Engage with mentors in the field and learn from experts what it takes to develop your career
  October 13 @ 12:00pm
  Renaissance Hotel
• Planning Meeting: Join forces with others committed to the WIA initiative and share ideas for events at future conferences
  October 14 @9:30am
  Renaissance Hotel

WIA is offering sponsorships for women transitioning from development and security-based jobs in the military to attend AppSecUSA 2016. To be eligible, you must be leaving the military within the next six months or have been out of the military for less than one year. To apply for a sponsorship, click HERE.

To register for WIA-hosted events at AppSecUSA 2016 visit the website at:https://2016.appsecusa.org/woman-in-appsec/

We hope you’ll join us in breaking barriers for women at AppSecUSA 2016!

Register for AppSecUSA