Look for apprenticeship programs through organizations like NWCyber (*see Industry Partners page), Cyber.org, and local community colleges. Many companies also offer entry-level apprenticeship opportunities to help you gain hands-on experience while learning.

Cybersecurity offers a wide range of career options, from security analysts and incident responders to penetration testers, cloud security engineers, and forensic experts. You can choose roles that align with your skills, interests, and experience levels.

You can find job listings and career guidance through websites like Cybersecurity Guide, which provide comprehensive resources for cybersecurity careers and job openings.

There are numerous job roles in cybersecurity, including security analyst, penetration tester, cybersecurity engineer, and incident responder. Salaries can vary widely based on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions typically start around $60,000 to $80,000, while specialized roles can earn significantly more, especially with experience and certifications. 

*See More Information About Careers – Degree or No Degree? 

Start with foundational certifications like CompTIA Security+ or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH). As you progress, more advanced certifications like CISSP, CISM, and Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) can help boost your career prospects.

Not necessarily. Many cybersecurity roles value certifications and real-world experience over traditional degrees. However, if you’re looking to move into more specialized areas or management positions, pursuing a degree or advanced certifications could be beneficial. 

*See More Information About Careers – Degree or No Degree? 

Several community and 4 year colleges in Oregon have reputable cybersecurity programs, offering a range of degrees and certificates designed to prepare students for careers in cybersecurity and IT. Here are a few: 

• Community Colleges: Affordable associate degrees and certifications (e.g., MHCC, PCC, Clark College). 
• Portland State University: Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity focusing on ethical hacking and secure coding. 
• University of Washington: Master’s in Cybersecurity Engineering and specialized training. 
• Oregon State University: Online Bachelor's in Computer Science with a focus on cybersecurity. 

To get started, explore online resources, join cybersecurity clubs near you, and participate in local workshops and events. Many organizations also offer free online courses and "Capture the Flag" competitions that can help you build foundational skills.  

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Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions are hands-on challenges that allow participants to practice their cybersecurity skills in a gamified environment. These competitions often involve solving puzzles, hacking into simulated systems, and collaborating with others, providing valuable experience and networking opportunities. Here are some CTFs to get you started: 

• PicoCTF  
• Cyber Skyline  
• Hacker101 CTF  
• TryHackMe  
• GoogleCTF  
• Mitre Cyber Academy  
• National Cyber League  
• Major League Cyber 
• CyberStart  
• SANS NetWars  
• HackTheBox  

Yes! Veterans bring unique skills to cybersecurity. Programs like VetSec and the CyberVetsUSA initiative offer specialized training, career transition resources, and networking opportunities tailored to veterans looking to enter cybersecurity.

There are 3784 cyber jobs in Oregon, 2314 jobs in the Portland/Vancouver area.