Author: Carmel Somers, Human Capital Strategist, Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet
I recently had the privilege of participating in a panel discussion on “The Cyber Workforce of the Future” at the Cyber Ireland National Conference 2025 in Kilkenny. The conversation reinforced what many of us in the industry are witnessing firsthand: the cybersecurity profession is undergoing a fundamental transformation in how we define expertise and develop talent.
The Rise of Hybrid Cybersecurity Roles
Gone are the days when technical prowess alone defined cybersecurity excellence. Today’s threat landscape demands something more nuanced-what I call “hybrid cybersecurity roles”. These positions blend deep technical cybersecurity capabilities with essential power skills including critical thinking, systems thinking, analysis, and strong communication abilities.
Why this shift? Modern cybersecurity challenges don’t exist in isolation. They intersect with business strategy, regulatory compliance, organisational culture, and risk management. The most effective cybersecurity professionals are those who can, not only identify and mitigate threats but also articulate their significance to diverse stakeholders, think holistically about security within complex systems, and make sound decisions under pressure.
Cybersecurity Career Transitions: Training Pathways That Work
Recognising this evolution, we need training programmes that reflect these hybrid skill requirements. Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet’s Future in Tech programme exemplifies this approach, offering a dedicated Cybersecurity pathway designed specifically for professionals looking to transition into the field. These accessible entry points are crucial for addressing the persistent skills shortage while bringing diverse perspectives and experiences into cybersecurity teams.
Equally important are Master’s level programmes that combine cybersecurity expertise with leadership development and the Leading in Cybersecurity Programme developed in partnership with the Irish Management Institute and Cyber Ireland, to help individuals build a critical awareness of their leadership style, become effective and influential communicators, develop emotional intelligence and ability to cultivate engagement and wellbeing within their cybersecurity team.
As the profession matures, we need individuals prepared to step into strategic roles-those who can shape security cultures, influence organisational direction, and lead teams through increasingly complex security challenges.
The Future Cybersecurity Workforce: A Strategic Talent Imperative
The cybersecurity profession stands at an inflection point. Technical skills remain foundational, but they’re no longer sufficient. We need professionals who can bridge technical and business domains, who lead with strategic vision, and who communicate security as an enabler rather than an obstacle.
For organisations, this means rethinking hiring criteria and investing in development programmes that cultivate these hybrid capabilities. For individuals, it presents an opportunity; whether you’re transitioning from another field or advancing your cybersecurity career, the demand for professionals who combine technical acumen with power skills has never been stronger.
The conversations at Cyber Ireland’s National Conference 2025 left me optimistic. Across industry, education, and government, there’s recognition that developing tomorrow’s cybersecurity talent requires new approaches. Through programmes like those offered by Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet, we’re building the frameworks to make that vision a reality.
Tackle cyber threats with confidence
Cybersecurity skills are continually in high demand and cybersecurity specialists are needed now more than ever.
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