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What’s really happening in the cybersecurity workforce—and why are so many organizations still struggling to hire and retain the right talent?

In this episode, I sit down with Brian Correia, the Director of Global Cyber Workforce Strategy & Engagement at SANS, to unpack key insights from the 2026 SANS GIAC Workforce Report.

But this isn’t your typical workforce conversation.

This report focuses on “cyber talent leaders”—the people responsible for hiring, developing, and retaining cybersecurity professionals. And what it reveals is both eye-opening and urgent.

We explore:

• The growing mid-career and senior talent bottleneck—and why it’s slowing organizations down
• How cybersecurity roles are evolving beyond technical expertise to include communication with boards and C-suites
• The real impact of AI on cybersecurity roles—and the emergence of positions like AI governance specialists

We also get real about leadership and representation:

• The ongoing gap in women in cybersecurity leadership—and why it still matters
• The importance of re-skilling existing talent instead of only chasing new hires
• How cybersecurity as a profession is maturing—and what that means for career paths

Brian’s journey—from conference management to cybersecurity leader—is a powerful reminder that there’s no one path into this field. The key is finding your niche and growing into it.

This conversation is for leaders, hiring managers, and anyone navigating a career in cybersecurity.

Because the future of cyber isn’t just about technology—it’s about people.

Get in Touch with us:

Brian: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianjcorreia/

Dawn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawnbutler1/

2026 Report: https://www.sans.org/white-papers/2026-cybersecurity-workforce-research-report

Join Inside the 2026 Cyber Workforce: Key Trends, Talent Gaps, Strategic Shifts, and the AI Revolution live event on June 24th 1:00 PM ET

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The views and opinions expressed by the host and guests are personal and not reflective of any employer.