16 October 2023

Smarttech247 Group PLC

(“Smarttech247”, the “Group” or the “Company”)

Smarttech247 Launches its Third Women in Cybersecurity Academy

Smarttech247 (AIM: S247), a multi-award-winning provider of AI-enhanced cybersecurity services providing automated managed detection and response for a portfolio of international clients, is pleased to announce that it has launched its third Women in Cybersecurity Academy to help address the cybersecurity skills shortage.

As cyberattacks become more sophisticated, it is essential that cybersecurity professionals are able to innovate and stay ahead of their adversaries. However, a recent UK Government Report found that a staggering 50% of all UK businesses have a basic cybersecurity skills gap, while 33% have an advanced cybersecurity skills gap. This is not a problem unique to the UK, with shortages being felt in the sector globally, forming a critical problem for the cybersecurity industry as it struggles to fill roles to help combat complex cyber threats.

Smarttech247 is striving to attract a wider range of talent to enter the sector. Despite huge strides being made in recent years, men still outnumber women in the cybersecurity industry at a ratio of three to one. This glaring imbalance shows a significant pool of resources that can be drawn upon to help close the global cybersecurity skills gap.

Although Smarttech247’s gender breakdown, standing at 60/40, surpasses the industry average, the Group is committed to narrowing the gap even further and striving for a 50/50 gender balance. Encouraging diversity in cybersecurity is essential, as it brings a wider range of talents, ideas, and approaches to the table, and is crucial for addressing complex, ever-evolving threats effectively and for building a more inclusive and equitable industry.

The free, remote learning course takes place over 6 weeks and allows women to access expert-level knowledge and have the chance to work alongside some of the best analysts, penetration testers, and threat hunters in the industry. The course aims to provide women with the confidence and comprehensive understanding to pursue careers in the cybersecurity industry, with the top-performing candidates at the Academy having the opportunity to secure work placements with Smarttech247.

Smarttech247 would like to encourage all women with relevant technology experience or a degree in associated fields such as computer science, information security, or network engineering to apply.

Please visit Smarttech247’s website to find out more: https://www.smarttech247.com/women-in-cybersecurity-academy-2024/

Raluca Saceanu, Chief Executive Officer of Smarttech247, commented:

“Here at Smarttech247 we strongly believe in the idea of ‘collective intelligence’, that championing diversity in an organisation increases the range of perspectives and mindsets, making it crucial to driving innovation and resilience.

“There is room for everyone when it comes to working in cybersecurity, and I strongly encourage women from all over the world to apply.”