How to Explore a Career in Cybersecurity with Support from Ticket to Work

How much of your daily life relies on technology? From the moment you wake up and check your phone, to using your devices for entertainment, navigation, or staying connected with friends and family, technology is woven into nearly everything you do. And with so much of your personal information stored on computers, smartphones, and online accounts, protecting that information has never been more important.

Cybersecurity professionals are the people working behind the scenes to safeguard the networks, devices, and data we depend on every day. According to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, “Cybersecurity is the art of protecting networks, devices, and data from unauthorized access or criminal use and the practice of ensuring confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information.”

If this kind of mission driven work sparks your interest, now might be the perfect time to explore a career in cybersecurity.

What Do Cybersecurity Professionals Do?

Cybersecurity professionals help keep computers, networks, and information safe. They look for problems that could allow someone to break in. They fix these issues before they cause harm. They also watch for unusual activity that might mean an attack is happening. When something goes wrong, they respond quickly to stop the damage and protect important information. They teach people how to stay safe online and use strong passwords. Overall, cybersecurity professionals help protect the technology we use every day.

Preparing for a Cybersecurity Career

You usually need a bachelor’s degree in a computer science-related field to get started. Professional certification programs can also help you qualify for entry level roles. Another option is to apply for a cybersecurity apprenticeship. Apprenticeships provide a paid pathway to a career by combining hands-on work experience, classroom learning, and a nationally recognized credential. To explore opportunities, visit the Apprenticeship Program Finder, where you can search for cybersecurity, youth, and pre-apprenticeship programs across the United States.

Outlook for Cybersecurity

The demand for cybersecurity professionals continues to grow. According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, jobs in this field are expected to increase by 21% over the next decade. As more companies rely on remote work, expand their online services, and use digital tools in areas like health care, the need to protect sensitive information becomes even more important. With technology woven into nearly every part of daily life, organizations need skilled cybersecurity workers now more than ever.

If you're thinking about applying for a cybersecurity role, our Find a Job page is a great place to start. There, you’ll find job boards where you can search for opportunities using terms like cybersecurity professional, information security analyst, or information security specialist.

How Ticket to Work Can Help

If you're interested in pursuing a career in cybersecurity (or another field!), Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program can help you take the next step with confidence. The Ticket Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) and want to work.

Through this free and voluntary program, you can receive guidance from knowledgeable service providers who offer the resources, information, and personalized support you need to plan your career path. They can help you learn about the skills and training needed for cybersecurity roles, explore certification or apprenticeship options, and understand how different opportunities align with your strengths and goals. Service providers can also help you navigate questions about working while receiving benefits.

Whether you’re just beginning to learn about cybersecurity or feel ready to start looking for jobs, Ticket to Work service providers can support you at every stage. If you have questions or want to discover how the Ticket Program can help you move toward greater independence, reach out to a service provider today.

Ready to Learn More?

• Attend a free WISE webinar. 
  Learn how the program works, hear real world tips, and get answers to common questions.
• Use the Find Help tool. 
  Connect with service providers who can help you practice interviews, build skills, explore job options, and create a plan tailored to your goals.
• Contact the Ticket to Work Help Line. 
  Call 1-866-968-7842 Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. 
  TTY users can call 1-866-833-2967.