Bridging the Cybersecurity Talent Gap with Enterprise Kansas City
We didn’t just address the cybersecurity talent shortage—we built a thriving ecosystem.
The Challenge at Hand
EnterpriseKC identified a critical issue: businesses in Kansas and Missouri were struggling to find skilled cybersecurity professionals to fill vital roles. At the same time, aspiring cybersecurity professionals lacked the resources and connections to advance their careers. The need for a solution that could address both sides of this gap was clear.
About EnterpriseKC
EnterpriseKC is a leading regional economic development organization dedicated to fostering economic growth in Kansas and Missouri.
The Objectives
To meet their ambitious goals, EnterpriseKC set out to create a comprehensive platform that could achieve the following:
Build a Sustainable Talent Pipeline
Provide access to education and career opportunities for cybersecurity professionals in the region.
Foster Employer & Talent Relationships
Create a centralized space where businesses could find skilled professionals and individuals could discover job opportunities.
Share Various Industry Insights
Offer a hub for emerging technologies, best practices, and trends to keep the community informed and competitive.
The Results
EnterpriseKC launched the EKC Talent Portal-a powerful Learning Management System (LMS) designed to bridge the cybersecurity talent gap. This platform provides an interactive, all-in-one solution for talent development, career advancement, and industry insights. Within the first year, the platform was able to achieve:
100+
Jobs Posted
50+
Employer Partnerships
150+
Hires Made
The Highlights
Data-Driven Talent Development
The CyberSpark Assessment Tool, developed in partnership with the University of Kansas, empowers users by providing tailored, data-driven insights into their career trajectories. By identifying strengths, weaknesses, and growth opportunities, the tool offers a clear roadmap for individuals to enhance their skills and achieve their professional goals.
For employers, this tool acts as a critical resource to gauge a candidate’s capabilities and potential, making it easier to match talent to specific organizational needs. As a result, the CyberSpark Assessment Tool has become a cornerstone of the Talent Portal’s success, enabling informed decisions and fostering career advancement.
A Central Hub for Growth
The EKC Talent Portal has firmly established itself as the premier resource for individuals and businesses within the cybersecurity ecosystem of Kansas and Missouri. By offering a comprehensive suite of tools and resources for education, career development, and staying abreast of industry trends, it has bridged the gap between aspiring professionals and the organizations seeking their expertise.
The platform’s accessibility and user-friendly interface have made it indispensable for individuals aiming to advance their skills and for businesses looking to secure top talent in a competitive industry.
Strategic Collaboration with Employers
EKC has cultivated robust partnerships with a diverse range of local businesses, ensuring the Talent Portal remains aligned with real-world needs. This collaboration enables employers to share job openings and identify candidates with the precise skills required for their roles.
Additionally, the portal’s employer-focused features foster ongoing communication between talent and hiring managers, creating a streamlined recruitment process. This strategy not only addresses the immediate demand for cybersecurity professionals but also contributes to the long-term development of a skilled workforce in the region.
