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

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We also serve the following locations: Del Rio, Highland, Oakland Park, Sulphur Springs, Oak Forest, East Lake, Roanoke, Roanoke, Murray, Osceola

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5.0 Rating From 2 Reviews.
on 17, Sep 2021
Lots of great information!
Michael
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

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

Play Video about Cybersecurity Career in 5 Weeks

Imagine you have completed your cybersecurity training and can now work in cybersecurity where there was a tremendous demand and far more demand than supply. You already have the skills you need to succeed. What would you do?

You could write your own ticket, choosing companies with the best pay, benefits, and opportunities to move up in your career.

Now, you are either stuck in a dead-end occupation or worse, out of work. Maybe you’ve tried a few classes at your community college, or even a self-paced study course. You might even have looked into the degree program at your local college, which can take at least four years. The risks and debt that come with a student loan are not to be overlooked.

However, this doesn’t mean it has to be so.

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.

This article has all the answers. To get them, you just need to read on.

Table of Contents

Why Start A Career in Cyber Security

Why look at a Cybersecurity career?

What is Cybersecurity?

  • Cybersecurity means protecting computer systems and networks against malicious attack.
  • It involves protecting the information technology infrastructure and protecting data within it.

Why Is Cybersecurity So Critical?

  • 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.
  • Protecting our identities and personal details from theft by hackers or foreign governments is essential in cybercrime. This protects us from financial loss.

Why start a career in Cybersecurity?

  • The number of cybersecurity jobs has increased by 94% over the last six-years.
  • 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?

  • Technology, in particular cybersecurity, requires passion.
  • If you are not passionate about technology, it will be difficult to work remotely and remain focused on your job.
  • It is important to be able to solve problems, be curious about how things work, and pay attention.

What is the best way to make money in Cybersecurity?

Average Salaries

  • As of January 17, 2022, the US average annual salary of cybersecurity professionals was $112,974,
  • Cybersecurity average salaries are between $65,000 (25th%) and $145,000. (75th%)
  • Entry-level positions typically have lower salaries, but offer qualified work opportunities with increased responsibility and upward mobility.

Is it possible to find a job in cybersecurity?

  • But not always.
  • It is important to recognize that there will always be a demand for cybersecurity professionals. However, you must be smart and strategic when pursuing this career path and how to progress.
  • A recent survey found that 70% of those in the field believe certifications are the most important training. Only 10% chose a bachelor’s and 5% chose a master’s.

What do entry-level people do on the job in the Cybersecurity field?

As with any IT job, you’ll be working with computers. There are many tasks you will need to perform, including:

  • Designing and maintaining computer systems.
  • Troubleshooting problems on the systems that you work on.
  • Monitoring systems for malicious activity such as viruses and hackers.   
  • Investigating and preventing cyberattacks on computers and networks.
  • Investigating malicious Internet activities, such as hacking and malware.
  • Run tests to assess the security of computer systems within an organization.

The list of possibilities goes on and on.

Get Hired in Cybersecurity Even Without A Degree

How to get hired in Cybersecurity without a degree

  • CompTIA Network+ and CompTIA Security+ are the most important certifications you need if you are brand new to cybersecurity.
  • Here’s why: A little-known regulation by the government is DOD-8570.
  • Technically, it has been updated by DOD-8140 but still uses the DOD-8570 chart.
  • The document states that you need to have at least one certification if you are in a job that could expose you to sensitive data.
  • CompTIA Security+ usually is the minimum certification required.
  • 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.
  • These certifications will take you far beyond a degree in cybersecurity without certifications. Plus, you’ll be able get there much faster.
  • These certifications will make you highly sought-after and should not be a problem to get placed.

What is DOD-8570 and what does it mean for cybersecurity?

  • It is a federal directive from the Department of Defense (DOD) that specifies that all US government agencies should use specific cybersecurity requirements for information systems.
  • These terms are defined in the directive and banned from use by the DOD.
  • On November 20, 1985, the Defense Technical Information Center issued DOD-8570 (Defense Technical Information Center). Its purpose was to protect DoD information systems from potential vulnerabilities of classified or unclassified information.
  • This means that for many positions in this industry, you will need to have at least one certification.
  • CompTIA Security+ usually is the minimum.
  • It has become a common occurrence that copycats of government-related companies require the same certifications required by the ones who have to.

What are the benefits and drawbacks of a Cybersecurity Degree versus Cybersecurity Certifications?

Degree vs Certifications

  • A cybersecurity degree costs more than a certification and takes longer.
  • While the degree offers a wide range of knowledge that can be applied in many industries, it has less hands-on skills.
  • You can demonstrate that you have the skill an employer is looking for by getting the right certification.
  • The law also requires you to have the right certification (see above).
  • All this is why, according to the recent Information Week Dark Reading salary survey 70% of cybersecurity workers said that certifications were their most important training. Only 10% said they have a bachelor’s degree while 5% said they have a master’s degree.

What Should Cybersecurity Training Look & Feel Like?

  • Due to the COVID-19 pandemic more people are looking for remote training. However, it is better to take LIVE classes than self-study.
  • It is a more enjoyable learning experience. You can also ask questions and view the answers of other students.
  • You should record the classes so that you can go back and review them later.
  • The classes should be repeatable if necessary at no additional cost.
  • There should be labs so you can get hands-on practice. The more often you can do the labs, the better you will understand and remember the concepts
  • You should have practice exams to ensure that you are fully prepared for the exam. It is a good idea to have opportunities to practice for the exam with the instructor.
  • Instructors should always be available to answer any additional questions.
Degree vs Certifications

How to get the cybersecurity training and certifications you need in five weeks-The Cybersecurity IT Pro 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 created a curriculum that meets the requirements of Defense Directive 85710.1. It was written by some of the most respected technologists and education experts around the globe.
  • Individuals who work in the private sector, government contractors, or military members who have access to DoD computer systems are required by directive 8570.1 to be trained in Cyber Security and Information Assurance to strengthen and secure DoD information, information systems, networks, and other resources.
  • Students will learn Cyber Security basics to help protect computers, mobile devices, as well as computer networks.
  • This program teaches students how to install basic security services on computers running Microsoft Operating Systems and networks.

CYBERSECURITY IT PROFESSIONAL CLASSES

CompTIA IT Fundamentals

  • We will introduce students to basic software applications and teach them how to set up a computer workstation.
  • This course will teach students about the basics of computer systems and how they work. It also teaches them how to maintain and support computers.
  • We will teach students the principles of software and database development.
  • You will learn how to set up a home network and connect mobile devices to the internet.
  • Students will be able to understand security issues that affect network and computer usage.
  • 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 (if you attend day classes, 2 weeks if evening classes).

CompTIA A+

  • The program will provide students with the necessary computer skills to become computer support professionals.
  • Students will be able to perform basic networking and install, configure, diagnose, troubleshoot, and perform preventive maintenance.
  • Students will be able to install, troubleshoot, and replace components in PC hardware.
  • The course also focuses on supporting and troubleshooting laptops, devices, printers, and smartphones.
  • 40 hours (if you take day class, 2 weeks if you are taking evening classes)

CompTIA Network+

  • This course is designed to teach students how to install and configure TCP/IP clients.
  • These skills will enable students to manage, troubleshoot and configure wired and wireless networks.
  • They will also learn skills to support emerging technologies like cloud-based computing, virtualization, and other forms of cloud-based computing.
  • 40 hours (1 week for day classes, 2 semaines for evening classes)

CompTIA Security+

  • As you expand your knowledge on operating systems, networks, and computer hardware, you will learn the skills necessary to implement basic security services across any type of network.
  • Students will gain real-world experience in solving security problems.
  • 40 hours (1 week for day classes, 2 weeks for evening classes).
Our Classes - The Cybersecurity IT Pro
Cybersecurity IT Pro-Program benefits

Program Benefits

  • You can complete your training in 5 weeks and be ready to work in just 10 weeks if you are taking night classes.
  • Classes are live remote, meaning you have a live instructor so the classes are interactive, but you can take them from home.
  • You have access for six months to virtual labs. This allows you to practice as often and as often as necessary.
  • You can retake any class for free within six months
  • Included are practice exams.
  • Exam Crams are also included.
  • Exam vouchers can be purchased.
  • Test pass guarantee.
  • We offer job placement assistance. You will be assisted by a career services director, who is available to assist with job searches, including the creation of your resume, cover email, LinkedIn profile, interview skills, as well as how to navigate through applicant tracking systems. We offer training to thousands. Many of them have hired us to train, and many of our jobs aren’t even advertised.
  • The bottom line is that you can finish your training in 5 weeks or 10 weeks if night classes are chosen. Once you’re done, you can start your new career.

How Do I Get Started for my Cybersecurity Training?

Let’s find out if you are eligible for a WIOA Grant. This grant can cover the cost of this (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. The amount and availability of the grant depend on where you live. This program is available to qualified individuals. It can pay up $15,000 to be trained and certified, then help you get a job. There are different amounts and availability depending on where you live.

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:

How to Start Your Cybersecurity Training-Risk Free!

A student loan is required when you are planning to attend school to learn for a new job. While this can be a good option for some people, it is not without its risks.

Here is the problem: you are the one assuming all the risk.

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

If you do get a job, then get laid off a year later, you have no income but you still have to make payments.

Let’s say you get a deferment. While you may not be making payments at the time, interest will continue to accrue. That means by the time you can start paying, you owe more than when you started.
This interest will make your debt more if you are injured in an accident.

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

What if there were a better way, so you could get the training you need to start this career, but still sleep at night.

Introduce the risk-free option: Income share agreements

Income share agreements are innovative student financing options that don’t require you to have any debt. They can help you start your career in Montgomery, even if it isn’t your first time. You might consider Income Share Agreements when you start your career here.


There is no upfront cost and there is no risk of losing money. The income share agreement will take a percentage from your salary for a set period of time in return for training. You only owe and pay when you earn more than the minimum threshold.

This is a risk-free option that can be used as an introduction to the field of cybersecurity.

Your debt is not subject to interest. It doesn’t matter how long it takes to get a job. You also don’t owe extra if you lose your job.

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 do not succeed and you do not pay until you are working. Ask other schools if they offer this.

A phone interview is required to see if this is right for you.

See if you qualify–make an appointment today!

Frequently asked questions

Most frequent questions and answers

Why Should I Train For Cybersecurity?

In the last six years, cybersecurity jobs have seen a 94% increase. If you’re interested in a career that is always changing and evolving, the perfect time is now to pursue a career in cybersecurity. There are many jobs in cybersecurity that can offer career growth opportunities. Cyberseek reports that there are almost 500,000 job positions. Clearwater, Tampa, St.Petersburg, and Clearwater have over 6,000 job vacancies. This means that cybersecurity professionals need to be available at all times.

Degree vs Certifications

A cybersecurity degree costs more than a certification and takes longer. While the degree offers a wide range of knowledge that can be applied in many industries, it has less hands-on skills.
You can demonstrate that you have the skill an employer is looking for by getting the right certification. The law also requires you to have the right certification (see above). All this is why, according to the recent Information Week Dark Reading salary survey 70% of cybersecurity workers said that certifications were their most important training. Only 10% said they have a bachelor’s degree while 5% said they have a master’s degree.

How Much Can I Earn In A Cybersecurity Career?

On February 20, 2019, the average salary for cybersecurity professionals was $112974 in the United States. The average cybersecurity salaries are between $65,000 (25th%) and $145,000. (75th%) Entry-level positions have lower salaries, but offer great opportunities for advancement and increased responsibility.

How can I finish the training in just five 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 in Cybersecurity without a degree?

CompTIA Network+ and CompTIA Security+ are the most important certifications you need if you are brand new to cybersecurity. Here’s why: A little-known regulation by the government is DOD-8570. Technically, it has been updated by DOD-8140 but still uses the DOD-8570 chart. The document states that you need to have at least one certification if you are in a job that could expose you to sensitive data. CompTIA Security+ usually is the minimum certification required. This certification is requested by companies even if they will not work for the government. These certifications will make you highly sought-after and should not be a problem to get placed.

How do I get started for my cybersecurity training?

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.