Women in Cyber - SANS Talent Academy
The Talent Academy, a pioneering initiative by Women in Cyber Switzerland and SANS, is to be launched as a pilot project in 2025. It will provide the opportunity for accelerated high-quality training and certifications to effectively launch a career in cybersecurity.
By providing financial, educational and career-focused support, the Talent Academy will make cyber security careers more attainable and attractive to a broader audience, through upskilling individuals from diverse disciplines who bring critical thinking, problem-solving, and technical skills, all of which are highly valuable for a career in cyber security.
We are happy and proud that the Women In Cyber Switzerland Talent Academy has been accepted as part of the implementation of the National Cyber Strategy in Objective 1: Empowerment, Measure 1: Cybersecurity education, research and innovation.
How does the program work?
The Women in Cyber Switzerland Talent Academy is designed to be challenging yet compatible with existing professional responsibilities. The Talent Academy pilot is an intensive 8-month program consisting of two high-quality training courses and two certification exams. Students commit to studying about 100 hours for each course (equivalent to 6-7 hours of study per week) and participating in additional support and coaching provided by the Women in Cyber Talent Team.
Program schedule
1.
Assesment and Selection Process
100 interested candidates are admitted to the assessment and selection process
Sept – Dec 2025
2.
SANS SEC275
GFACT Certification
Top 20% of successful applicants are admitted to the first part of the academy
Jan – March 2026: SEC275
April 2026: GFACT
3.
Sans SEC401
GSEC Certification
Top 10 graduates from GFACT ar admitted to the final part of the academy
May – July 2026: SEC401
August 2026: GSEC
Become a benefactor of the Talent Academy
The Talent Academy is an initiative that helps find the cybersecurity talent we all need to bridge the growing skills gap. Women in Cyber Switzerland believes strongly in the program and its success.
We are seeking three to five forward-thinking organisations to each invest an estimated CHF 30’000 – 50’000, thereby supporting approximately 20 students through the program.
Strategic advantages
Strategic Talent Acquisition and Development
- Recruitment: Recruitment tailored to the specific needs of partner organisations, ensuring optimal placement of cybersecurity support.
Brand Enhancement and Corporate Responsibility
- Enhanced Brand Image: Partnership with a nationally recognised initiative demonstrates a commitment to social responsibility and industry leadership.
- Corporate Messaging: Strengthen trust among stakeholders by actively enhancing global business and societal security.
Social Impact and ESG Commitment
- Commitment to Diversity: Significantly impacts diversity and inclusion within the tech industry.
- Meaningful Engagement: Change lives and promote social sustainability, aligning with your organisation’s ESG goals.
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Join us
Join us in shaping a safer, more secure future by investing in the Talent Academy. Engage with this strategic initiative to address the global cybersecurity skills gap and foster an inclusive, skilled workforce. For more details and to discuss benefactor opportunities, please get in touch with us.