A Cybersecurity Asset: CDT’s Information Security Leadership Academy

Cybersecurity is vitally important to every Californian, and the need for highly qualified security professionals has never been greater. To illustrate the need, consider that every day CDT’s Security Operations Center detects 200-plus million malicious probes targeting California government entities; and across America thousands of cybersecurity jobs sit vacant, unable to find qualified candidates.

In response, CDT offers training to assist IT professionals who aspire to an expanded role within their departments’ security offices. Perhaps CDT’s most important and recognized offering is its highly regarded Information Security Leadership Academy (ISLA).

The current ISLA, running Aug. 1 through Sept. 27, is the second cohort for this training and focuses on preparing students for critical roles in public sector information security. The academy incorporates best practices, security operations, risk frameworks and California-specific policies and standards. ISLA students must complete a Computer Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) security boot camp class and exam which, if passed, will earn them a highly valued certification.

The academy includes National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) risk and security control frameworks, and information security program management skills.

Program participants interact with the state’s security leaders and take part in a dynamic simulation experience.  Students also participate in practical workshops and complete an incident response simulation exercise. ISLA class sponsors, managers, and coaches mentor students throughout the program.

ISLA is open to information security personnel, tech-savvy IT professionals and aspiring information security officers who are passionate about cybersecurity.