Overview
This article shares long term observations on how cybersecurity roles, expectations, and entry paths have changed over decades, and what aspiring professionals need to understand to adapt.
Saturated Entry Points and Rising Expectations
Entry level cybersecurity roles are now highly saturated. Hiring leaders routinely receive hundreds or thousands of applications per opening. As a result, expectations for so called entry level positions have increased significantly, and the work itself has become more complex.
How Cybersecurity Roles Have Changed
Early cybersecurity roles often focused on reporting and basic analysis. Today, analysts are expected to operate complex tools, understand environments deeply, and actively contribute to defense and response. This mirrors the earlier evolution seen in DevOps, where blended skill sets became the norm.
Why IT Foundations Matter More Than Ever
There is a growing gap between theoretical knowledge and hands on ability. Cybersecurity requires understanding infrastructure at a practical level, including networks, firewalls, systems, and workflows. You cannot effectively protect what you have never managed or troubleshot.
Hollywood Versus Reality
Media portrayals of cybersecurity emphasize excitement and shortcuts. In reality, the field demands persistence, technical depth, and continuous learning. The work is less glamorous but far more demanding and impactful.
Alternative Paths Within Cybersecurity
Not all cybersecurity roles follow the same trajectory. Positions such as Compliance Analyst, Cybersecurity Risk Analyst, Security Auditor, and Vulnerability Assessor provide meaningful entry points and long term career opportunities, especially for those building experience.
Adapting Instead of Forcing Outcomes
Repeatedly applying for roles that consistently reject you is often a signal to reassess strategy. Adapting skills, gaining foundational experience, or pivoting roles can be more effective than continuing to push against unchanged hiring realities.
Leadership Responsibility
Industry leaders have a responsibility to mentor honestly and help bridge the gap between education and practice. Preparing the next generation requires transparency about expectations and viable paths forward.
Final Thought
Cybersecurity is evolving rapidly. Success now depends on adaptability, foundational skills, and willingness to change direction when conditions demand it. Those who adjust early are far more likely to thrive long term.
Stay hungry for knowledge, my friends.
Mahalo