Cybersecurity Pathways for Communities of Color - National Institute of Standards and Technology

Project Description:
With funding from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), WeReach is leading a groundbreaking research and development initiative to create equitable career pathways into the high-demand field of cybersecurity for individuals from historically marginalized communities—especially communities of color.
This initiative focuses on understanding and removing the barriers that prevent underrepresented individuals from entering or advancing into the cybersecurity sector, while piloting apprenticeship-based solutions that are inclusive, culturally responsive, and aligned with industry needs.
Why Cybersecurity? Why Now?
The U.S. is facing a national shortage of cybersecurity professionals, with over 500,000 open jobs across the country. As digital threats grow and organizations seek to protect their data, cybersecurity has become one of the most in-demand and highest-paying fields in the tech sector.
However, Black, Latino, Indigenous, and other people of color remain significantly underrepresented in these careers. Despite having talent and interest, individuals from these communities face challenges such as:
• Limited exposure to cybersecurity career pathways in high school and college
• Lack of mentors and role models in the field
• Gaps in access to training, certifications, or entry-level experience
• Financial and logistical barriers to unpaid internships or traditional educational pathways
WeReach’s project, funded by NIST, seeks to close this equity gap by designing more accessible and inclusive apprenticeship models that lower barriers to entry and promote long-term advancement in cybersecurity careers.
What This Project Does
WeReach is conducting a multi-phase initiative that includes:
1. Community-Driven Research
• Hosting focus groups and interviews with individuals from underserved communities who are interested in cybersecurity
• Engaging with employers, workforce agencies, and training providers to understand current practices
• Identifying systemic barriers in hiring, certification requirements, and internship access
2. Apprenticeship Pathway Design
• Designing an inclusive cybersecurity apprenticeship framework that incorporates:
• Paid, hands-on training opportunities
• Structured mentorship and coaching
• Flexible entry points for career changers and non-traditional learners
• Wraparound supports (e.g., childcare, technology, transportation)
3. Pilot Planning and Outreach
• Partnering with community colleges, training providers, and employers to prepare pilot implementation
• Creating materials and outreach strategies to reach young adults, career changers, and veterans from communities of color
• Establishing metrics to evaluate outcomes and scale the model
Our Long-Term Vision
This project is more than researching, it's the foundation for a new, inclusive model of career entry into cybersecurity, one that is driven by community voice and real-world barriers.
By the end of this initiative, WeReach will have developed:
• A tested and replicable apprenticeship pathway model
• A set of tools and recommendations for employers, training providers, and policymakers
• A roadmap to launch pilots in collaboration with industry partners
• A replicable strategy to engage communities of color in long-term cybersecurity careers
How You Can Help
This work thrives with collaboration. We invite support from:
• Employers interested in building inclusive cybersecurity apprenticeship programs
• Philanthropic and corporate partners who want to invest in workforce equity in tech
• Volunteers and mentors from the cybersecurity field are willing to guide aspiring professionals
Together, we can build a stronger, more secure digital one that includes and uplifts everyone.