New Initiative Aims to Fast-Track Women into Cybersecurity Careers

A new professional development initiative will give 100 women the opportunity to revamp their careers and prepare for new roles in cybersecurity in only 100 days. "100 Women in 100 Days" is the result of a $160,000 philanthropic investment by Craig Newmark Philanthropies.

Cyber-risk management firm Inteligenca will manage the program and provide free security training to students. CEO Carmen Marsh shared her idea for the program on LinkedIn last October. So far, nearly 200 women have registered and await their turn to participate.

Allegiant Giving, an organization that aims to support students, athletes, and veterans in local community programs, helped Marsh confirm trainers, mentors, facilities, and potential employers. On the program's website, registrants can choose to pursue a certification: CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Security+, and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH). Intel, IBM, Sutter Health, Centene, and other organizations have signed on to accept students into internships and apprenticeships.

The inaugural class will kick off in Sacramento, Calif., this summer, and Marsh plans to expand the program nationally in 2020 and beyond. Craig Newmark, founder of Craigslist and Craig Newmark Philanthropies, supports the plan to take the program across the county. Newmark works with several groups to create opportunities in security; last year, he gave $1 million to VetsinTech to support bringing veterans into the industry.

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