How to Become a Cyber Security Manager: Is it Right For Me?
In a world where nearly everyone has a computer in their pockets, and so many companies are reliant on technology, the information technology (IT) field is growing rapidly and becoming increasingly important. Now that you are a seasoned cybersecurity pro who wants to integrate people skills into your daily work, moving into management may be an appropriate option for you.
IT managers ensure that the computer technology of a company or organization operates efficiently and effectively. These professionals work closely with other department heads and senior executives in identifying and developing new technology solutions. IT managers also supervise the development, implementation, and maintenance of a company’s technology requirements.
Rapid growth in different IT job markets, including virtualization, cloud computing, data storage, software development, and networking, plus the increase of mobile and wireless technologies, is improving the demand for IT specialists across the board, which is consequently bringing about job growth for the IT managers who supervise and lead IT personnel. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for IT manager is expected to grow by 12% from 2016 to 2026, which is more than the 7% growth rate of all careers.
Benefits of having a Master’s Degree in Cybersecurity
Those aspiring to be IT managers typically hold at least a bachelor’s degree in a field that is computer-related. However, many employers only hire IT managers who hold a master’s degree with a focus on computer science or similar technology. Coursework can include programming, computer engineering, database management, project management, mathematics, and networking.
You may have a bachelor’s degree and have worked hard to succeed in your current job. However, it may be necessary to advance your education if you want to stand out from the crowd. If you are aspiring to be an IT manager, earning a master’s degree can open many doors for you in the future. You’ll have many job opportunities to choose from, usually with a better pay.
Importance of Cybersecurity Experience
As an aspiring IT manager, it won’t make sense to expect a management position as a fresh graduate without the appropriate experience. Before you can supervise and oversee tasks performed by other employees, you’ll be required to have adequate experience working in the IT field. Consider obtaining hands-on experience and building your resume while working on your master’s degree. You can even obtain the experience required to climb the corporate ladder with entry-level jobs. Use this time to pick the brains of management.
As you’re working, do not focus solely on building your technical expertise. As an IT manager, you’ll be required to work with teams and this means working on your communication and leadership. For instance, in the course of your work, the client may not ask you how the components of the system work, but may need to know why something should be done as instructed. This means that you’ll have to break everything down in a simple manner; something that requires good communications skills.
Is this Really the Job for You?
To become an IT manager, you’ll need a few strings to your bow and not just an interest in the field of technology. In your job, you’ll be managing other IT personnel and working with clients, and this means that you should have:
- Good leadership skills
- Excellent organizational skills
- Good evaluation skills
- Good communication skills, both verbal and written
- Understanding of complex information
- Excellent problem-solving skills
- An ability to work within constraints and to tight deadlines
- Ability to be flexible enough to adapt plans
- A good understanding of both the business and IT worlds
- Confidence in making decisions
- Excellent time management skills
Make your Move Today with a Masters in Cybersecurity
Any organization’s IT department requires a skilled manager in order to thrive. Now that you have an understanding of what it takes for one to become an IT manager, it might be time to head back to school. If you want to earn a Master of Science Degree in Cybersecurity, ECPI University offers this degree at an accelerated course of study. For more information, connect with a friendly admissions advisor today.
It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!
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Gainful Employment Information – Cybersecurity - Master’s
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