Cybersecurity workforce faces growing pains as industry ages

Cybersecurity faces a talent crunch, rising stress, aging workforce, and growing demand for adaptable professionals with strong soft skills.

- By CIO&Leader | [e-mail]

ISACA's State of Cybersecurity 2025 report reveals a profession at a crossroads, with mounting stress, an aging workforce, and shifting priorities creating new challenges for the industry.

The Aging Workforce Crisis

One of the most concerning findings is the graying of cybersecurity professionals. The largest group of survey respondents (35%) is between 45 and 54 years old, while the number of younger workers under 35 has declined slightly. With many experienced professionals nearing retirement and fewer young people entering the field, organizations may soon face a critical talent shortage. Only half of the respondents manage staff with less than three years of experience, raising questions about who will replace retiring managers.

Stress Levels Remain High