Cybersecurity Training: How to start your career in Hernando County, without any experience or student loans!

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We also serve the following locations: Brooksville, Spring Hill, Berkeley, Pasco, San Antonio, Dade City, Wesley Chapel, Land O Lakes, Pasco County, Richland

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5.0 Rating From 2 Reviews.
on 17, Sep 2021
“I was “early retired” by the corporation I had worked for, for 18 years and was still going strong. There was no reason other than I already knew when you approach age 55 you could expect the “offer”. I happened to meet a … (Dewey) at a job fair and that started a relationship wherein I took a couple of classes and gained one certification which was critical in my job search. After 18 months I landed my dream job in IT with the VA national office due to that certification!! I am forever grateful to the services for the unemployed especially veterans of which I am one. Bravo zulu!!”
Tim
on 17, Sep 2021
Lots of great information!
Michael
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Cybersecurity Training: How to start your career in Hernando County, without any experience or student loans!

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Imagine you have completed your cybersecurity training and can now work in cybersecurity, where the demand for your skills was through the roof, far outstripping the supply. You already possess the skills employers require. What would you do?

You can write your own ticket and choose companies that pay the most, offer the best benefits, and give you the opportunity to advance in your career.

Right now, however, you’re stuck in a dead-end job, or worse, unemployed. Perhaps you tried some classes at your local community college, a self-paced course or the four-year degree program at the college. A student loan can be costly and has additional risks.

But, it doesn’t have to be this way:

There is a way you can start training for this field and be complete in just five weeks–without a student loan or any of the risks associated with one. You might be able even to do it free of charge if you’re unemployed.

All of the answers you need are right here in this article. Just continue reading to find out how.

Table of Contents

Why Start A Career in Cyber Security

What You Need To Know About Cybersecurity

What is Cybersecurity and how can you protect your organization?

  • Cybersecurity is the protection and security of computer networks and systems from malicious attacks.
  • Cybersecurity is the protection of information technology infrastructure against disruption, as well as data within a system and network.

Why Companies Think Cybersecurity Is So Important

  • Cybersecurity is essential because it protects identities and information from being stolen by hackers and foreign governments.
  • It’s more difficult than ever to keep your computer safe with cybercrime increasing.
  • With the increasing cybercrime, it is important to protect our identities and personal data from being stolen by hackers or foreign governments as this protects us from financial loss.

Cybersecurity is a great career choice.

  • Over the past six year, cybersecurity job openings have increased 94%.
  • The best time to pursue a career within cybersecurity is now.
  • Cybersecurity is a rapidly growing industry that offers many opportunities for career advancement. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities in this field will be as large or larger than the number of people who enter it each year.
  • So cybersecurity professionals will always be in high demand.

How can you tell if you are a good candidate for cybersecurity work?

  • Passionate about technology, and especially cybersecurity, is a must.
  • If you don’t have this passion, you will not be able to work remotely while focusing on the job.
  • It is important to be able to solve problems, be curious about how things work, and pay attention.
Let Me Know If I am A Good Candidate For Cybersecurity

What is the best way to make money in Cybersecurity?

Average Cybersecurity Salary

  • As of February 20, 2019, the US average annual salary of cybersecurity professionals was $112,974,
  • Cybersecurity salaries range from $65,000 (25th percentile), to $145,500 (7th percentile).
  • Entry-level jobs generally pay less, but offer the opportunity to be a qualified worker with greater responsibility and upward mobility.

Is it difficult to get a job as a cybersecurity professional?

  • It doesn’t always work.
  • You need to realize that cybersecurity professionals are in high demand. However, you will have to be strategic and smart about how you approach this career.
  • A recent survey found that 70% of those in the field believe certifications are the most important training. Only 10% said they have a bachelor’s degree, and only 5% said they have a master’s degree.

What does the Cybersecurity job entail for entry-level?

As with any IT job you will work with computers. You’ll be responsible for a range of tasks, such as:

  • Development and maintenance of computer systems.
  • Troubleshooting the problems in the systems you are using.
  • Monitor the systems for malicious activity (e.g. viruses and hackers).   
  • Investigating cyberattacks on computers networks and networks.
  • Investigating malicious actions on the Internet, such as hacking, malware, and viruses.
  • Run tests to assess the security of computer systems within an organization.

The possibilities are endless.

how much can you make in a cybersecurity career?
Let Me Know If I am A Good Candidate For Cybersecurity
Get Hired in Cybersecurity Even Without A Degree

How to get a job in Cybersecurity even if you don’t have a degree

  • CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Security+, are the most essential certifications you will need if your new to cybersecurity.
  • This is because of a less-known government regulation, DOD-8570.
  • Technically, it has been updated by DOD-8140 but still uses the DOD-8570 chart.
  • It states that if you are in a position where you might be exposed to sensitive government data, then you must have at least one of the certifications they have listed for that position.
  • Typically the minimum asked for is CompTIA Security+.
  • This certification is requested by companies even if they will not work for the government.
  • Before you can take these courses, you will need to have a solid foundation. If you don’t have any IT experience and you are just starting out, CompTIA IT Fundamentals, Microsoft Network, Security Fundamentals and CompTIA A+ should be your first course.
  • You will be able to go further than a cybersecurity degree without certifications and you will also get there faster.
  • These certifications are highly desirable and will help you to be placed.

What is DOD-8570, and why is it important in cybersecurity?

  • This federal directive is issued by the Department of Defense (DOD). It specifies that all US government agencies must adhere to specific cybersecurity requirements in order to protect information systems.
  • This directive also defines and prohibits the use of these terms in the DOD.
  • On November 20, 1985, the Defense Technical Information Center issued DOD-8570 (Defense Technical Information Center). Its purpose is ensure DoD information systems are protected against the vulnerabilities of classified and unclassified information.
  • This means that for many positions in this industry, you will need to have at least one certification.
  • CompTIA Security+ is the minimum requirement.
  • Many companies, even those that will not do business with government agencies, have become copycats and need the same certifications as those companies required.

What are the pros and cons of a Degree versus Certifications in Cybersecurity?

What do cybersecurity workers prefer-a degree or certifications?

  • A degree in cybersecurity is more expensive than a certification and takes much longer.
  • While the degree offers a wide range of knowledge that can be applied in many industries, it has less hands-on skills.
  • Employers want to see that you have the right certification.
  • The law also requires you to have the right certification (see above).
  • Because of all this, according to a recent Information Week’s, Dark Reading salary survey, 70% of workers in cybersecurity said certifications were the most important training in developing their career. Only 10% said they had a bachelor’s and 5% said that they had a master’s.

What Should Cybersecurity Training Look & Feel Like?

  • More people want remote training due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but you should take LIVE classes, rather than self-study.
  • You will have a better learning experience, and you can ask questions and see what other students are asking.
  • The classes should be recorded, so you can review all or part of them later.
  • The classes should be repeatable if necessary at no additional cost.
  • There should be labs so you can get hands-on practice. Labs should be done as often as possible to help you remember and understand the concepts.
  • You should have practice exams to ensure that you are fully prepared for the exam. Ideally, there should also be chances to cram for the exam with the instructor.
  • Instructors should be available for additional questions if necessary.
See if you qualify for a grant or no risk option to finance your training
Degree vs Certifications

How to get the cybersecurity training you need in 5 weeks-The Cybersecurity IT Professional program

Overview

  • Microsoft and the Computing Technology Industry Association, (CompTIA), are internationally recognized industry representatives who developed the Cyber Security IT Professional program curriculum. They also created hands-on labs.
  • CompTIA developed a curriculum written by some the top technologists and educators in the world to meet Defense Directive 8570.1.
  • Directive 8570.1 requires individuals working in the private sector, government contractors or military personnel to receive training in Cyber Security and Information Assurance in order to strengthen and protect DoD information, information networks, and other resources.
  • This program teaches students the basics of Cyber Security to protect their computers, mobile devices, networks, and personal information.
  • Students will learn to implement basic security services for computers and networks that run Microsoft Operating Systems.
See if you qualify for a grant or no risk option to finance your training

OUR CLASSES FOR THE CYBERSECURITY IT PROFESSIONAL

CompTIA IT Fundamentals

  • Students will be introduced to the basics of software and taught how to set up a computer station.
  • This course teaches students the basics of how a computer works, what its devices are, and how to use basic computer maintenance and support principles.
  • We will introduce students to basic database and software development principles.
  • You will learn how to set up a home network and connect mobile devices to the internet.
  • The students will also learn about security issues that can affect computer and network use.
  • 40 hours (1 week if taking day classes, and 2 weeks if attending evening classes).

Microsoft 40032 Network and Security Fundamentals

  • This course will teach participants how to use advanced network infrastructures, protocols and services, security layers, Windows 10 Operating System Security and Advanced Network Security. It also addresses new security threats.
  • 40 hours (1 week if you take day classes, 2 weeks for evening classes)

CompTIA A+

  • This program will give students the skills necessary to become technicians.
  • They will participate in hands-on labs that include installing, configuring and diagnosing computers, performing preventive maintenance, and basic networking.
  • Students will be able to install, troubleshoot, and replace components in PC hardware.
  • This course will also help you troubleshoot and support your smartphones, tablets, printers, and laptops.
  • 40 hours (1 week if you take day classes, 2 weeks for evening classes)

CompTIA Network+

  • This course teaches students how to configure and install TCP/IP clients.
  • By acquiring these skills, students will be able to troubleshoot, configure and manage wired and wireless networks.
  • This course will equip students with the skills necessary to support new technologies such as virtualization and cloud-based computing.
  • 40 hours (1 week for day classes, 2 semaines for evening classes)

CompTIA Security+

  • You will develop specific skills required for implementing basic security services on any type of computer network as you build on your knowledge of computer hardware, operating systems, and networks.
  • Students will practice real-world problem-solving skills to learn how to solve security-related problems.
  • 40 hours (1 week if you take day classes, 2 weeks for evening classes)
Our Classes - The Cybersecurity IT Pro
See if you qualify for a grant or no risk option to finance your training
Cybersecurity IT Pro-Program benefits

How This Program benefits You

  • Your training can be completed and you will be ready for work in five weeks (or less if night classes are taken).
  • Classes can be taken remotely, so you can have live instructors and interact with them.
  • Virtual labs are available for 6 months, so you can practice whenever and however often you want.
  • You can retake any class for free within six months
  • Practice exams are included.
  • Exam Crams include.
  • Exam vouchers can be purchased.
  • Test pass guarantee.
  • Assistance with job placement is provided. Our full-time career services director can help you with your job hunt, including your resume, cover letter and LinkedIn profile. We also have the ability to help you get past the applicant tracking software. We provide training for thousands of employees. Many of them are recruiters from us. Many of the jobs we have placed people into are not even advertised.
  • Bottom line: you can complete your training in as little as 5 weeks (or 10 weeks if you choose night classes) and be on your way to starting your new career.

How Do I Get Started for my Cybersecurity Training?

Let’s see if you may be eligible for a WIOA Grant to pay for your training and job placement assistance (yes, it could be free if you qualify!)

Are you unemployed? There is a little-known federal grant program that can pay for you to get trained, certified, and placed in your career at no cost to you. Availability and amounts are based on where you live. If you are eligible, the program can pay up to $15,000 to help you get trained and certified. The amount and availability vary by county

You are eligible for this grant, which can be used to pay for your training so that we can help place you in your chosen career.

If you do not qualify for the WIOA grant, you have another risk-free option:

Let's Get Started!
See if you qualify for a grant
Risk Free-Without A Student Loan
See if you qualify for a grant or no risk option to finance your training

How to Start Your Cyber Security Training-Risk-Free!

A student loan is required when you are planning to attend school to learn for a new job. Although this is a great option for many people, you should be aware of potential pitfalls.

The problem is that you are the one who takes all the risk.

If you do not get a job right away, you still have to pay the loan.

You can lose your job if you don’t get it, but still need to pay the bills.

Let’s say you get a deferment. You might not be making payments, but interest keeps accruing in the meantime. That means by the time you can start paying, you owe more than when you started.
Your debt will increase if you are involved in an accident that leaves you without work for a prolonged period of time.

The loan will be with you until it is fully paid off.
We all know someone who has had a problem with student loans.

Imagine a better way to get the training you need and still be able to sleep at night.

Introduce the risk-free option of Income Share Agreements

Income share agreements, which can be used to finance your education and help you get started in Hernando County, are innovative options for student financing that are debt-free. You might consider Income Share Agreements when you start your career here.


There is no initial cost or risk of money falling. The income share agreement takes a percentage of your salary for a fixed period of time in exchange for training, but you only owe and only pay when you are working and making an income above the minimum threshold.

This is an easy way to get started in cybersecurity.

There is no interest charged on your debt. This means that you don’t owe anything more if it takes longer for you to get a job, and you don’t owe anything more if your job is lost and you have to go without paying for a while.

If you earn less than the minimum threshold (this varies by program) or lose your job, you don’t have to pay anything until you are working and making more than the threshold.

We are offering an income share agreement that is risk-free for you even if you have no experience and are currently unemployed because of the confidence we have in our outcomes. We don’t succeed, and you don’t have to work until you get paid. You might ask other schools to offer this option.

To find out if this is for you, a telephone interview is required.

Check to see if your qualifications are met – make an appointment today!

Income Share Agreements
See if you qualify for a grant or no risk option to finance your training

Frequently asked questions

Most frequent questions and answers

Why Should I Train For Cybersecurity?

The number of cybersecurity jobs has increased by 94% over the last six years. If you’re interested in a career that is always changing and evolving, the perfect time is now to pursue a career in cybersecurity. Cybersecurity is an expanding industry that offers many different job opportunities and great career prospects. According to Cyberseek, there are almost 500,000 job openings. There are more than 6,000 job opportunities in the Tampa / St.Petersburg/ Clearwater area, for example. This means that cybersecurity professionals should always be in demand.

What do cybersecurity workers prefer-a degree or certifications?

A degree in cybersecurity is more expensive than a certification and takes much longer. While the degree offers a wide range of knowledge that can be applied in many industries, it has less hands-on skills.
Employers want to see that you have the right certification. The law also requires you to have the right certification (see above). Because of all this, according to a recent Information Week’s, Dark Reading salary survey, 70% of workers in cybersecurity said certifications were the most important training in developing their career. Only 10% said they had a bachelor’s and 5% said that they had a master’s.

How Much Can I Make In A Cybersecurity Career?

The average salary of cybersecurity professionals in the United States was $112,974 on February 20, 2021. The average cybersecurity salary is $65,000 (25th%) – $145,000 (75th%) Entry-level roles typically have lower wages but offer more opportunities for growth and responsibility.

How can I get trained in just 5 weeks?

Microsoft and the Computing Technology Industry Association, (CompTIA), are internationally recognized industry representatives who developed the Cyber Security IT Professional program curriculum, which is designed to complete your training in five weeks (or ten weeks if you choose evening classes). They also created the hands-on labs.

How can I get hired as a Cybersecurity professional without a degree?

CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Security+, are the most essential certifications you will need if your new to cybersecurity. This is because of a less-known government regulation, DOD-8570. Technically, it has been updated by DOD-8140 but still uses the DOD-8570 chart. It states that if you are in a position where you might be exposed to sensitive government data, then you must have at least one of the certifications they have listed for that position. Typically the minimum asked for is CompTIA Security+. This certification is requested by companies even if they will not work for the government. These certifications are highly desirable and will help you to be placed.

How do I get started with your cybersecurity training program?

First, let’s see if you qualify for a WIOA Grant that could pay for this for you (yes, that means it might be free if you qualify!) Call now or book an appointment for us to call you.

See if you qualify for a grant to finance your training