February 14, 2018, Chicago, Illinois – As the cybersecurity market continues to grow and it becomes an issue of paramount importance, employers are intently seeking to hire professionals with aptitude and skills to fill key positions. SANS Institute has thus launched the SANS Cyber Workforce Academy – Chicago, a 100% scholarship-based, immersive training program designed to increase the talent pipeline in the greater Chicago area.

This accelerated program is a fast-track into the cybersecurity field for veterans and women in the region. The SANS Cyber Workforce Academy – Chicago is a three-to-four month accelerated cybersecurity training program that offers students advanced technical SANS training and industry-recognized GIAC certifications. Students will learn the hands-on cyber defense, continuous monitoring, security operations and incident handling skills sought by Chicago-area employers. The Academy will aim to recruit veterans and women, building on the success of the SANS VetSuccess and Women’s Immersion Academies. Since 2015, these programs have provided scholarship-based cybersecurity training to more than 225 participants.

“One of the greatest threats to information security is the dramatic shortage of cyber talent in the U.S. and around the globe,” explained Max Shuftan, SANS CyberTalent Program Director. “We are excited about the Cyber Workforce Academy – Chicago as this unique program offers veterans and women a way to break into the cybersecurity field and realize their potential in a fast-paced and high-demand industry. The Academy also helps local employers by increasing the number of cybersecurity professionals available to fill key positions.”

Accepted participants will receive industry-leading curriculum and hands-on learning taught by expert SANS faculty. Graduates earn GIAC certifications – recognized by employers around the world. SANS, using its professional and corporate network developed over the past 25 years, will coordinate introductions between program graduates and leading employers in the greater Chicago area.

Applicants must qualify by demonstrating aptitude and foundational skills using the SANS CyberTalent Enhanced (CTE) Assessment and participate in interviews with SANS staff. Interested candidates may visit www.sans.org/cyberworkforce-chicago to view eligibility requirements.

Applications for the Cyber Workforce Academy – Chicago are now open and will close on March 30, 2018. Candidates will be selected by April 13, 2018 and courses begin May 1st, with graduation estimated in late July 2018. For more information about or to apply for the SANS Cyber Workforce Academy – Chicago, please visit: www.sans.org/cyberworkforce-chicago