Navigating the Great Freeze: Challenges and Opportunities for Entry-Level Cybersecurity Professionals

The global labor market is entering what analysts call the “Great Freeze.” This period is characterized by slowed hiring, limited upward mobility, and new graduates struggling to secure employment. For cybersecurity and computer science professionals, particularly those seeking entry-level cybersecurity jobs, this environment presents unique challenges.

The State of the Market

Despite reports of a cybersecurity talent shortage, the hiring landscape tells a more complex story. The World Economic Forum recently noted that only 14 percent of organizations believe they have sufficient cybersecurity talent to meet operational needs. However, many companies have imposed hiring freezes or limited recruitment budgets, resulting in fewer opportunities for new entrants.

Recent industry data reflects this dual reality. Reports from Cybersecurity Tribe show that while demand for skilled professionals in specialized roles remains strong, overall cybersecurity job postings in the United States have declined since 2022. The U.S. Department of Defense has even announced reductions in its cyber workforce as part of a larger restructuring effort. Similarly, a survey by Help Net Security revealed that over half of technology hiring managers expect further layoffs in 2025, particularly in roles that can be replaced or supported by automation and artificial intelligence.

For recent graduates, this has created a paradox. Many organizations claim to lack qualified candidates, yet they continue to require several years of experience for entry-level positions. As a result, graduates are encountering a bottleneck between educational preparedness and market entry.

The Impact on Young Professionals

1. The Challenge of Entry

The traditional pathway into cybersecurity is narrowing. Job descriptions for entry-level roles often demand certifications such as CISSP or CISM, which are designed for senior professionals. Research from ISC² indicates that 38 percent of hiring managers expect candidates for entry-level roles to hold advanced certifications. Competition has intensified, with some junior analyst postings attracting thousands of applications.

2. The Role of AI and Automation

Artificial intelligence and automation are redefining what constitutes an entry-level role. Routine monitoring and triage tasks, once handled by junior analysts, are now being managed by machine learning algorithms and AI-driven security information and event management (SIEM) platforms. However, this shift is also generating demand for new skill sets, such as AI-driven threat detection, cloud security, and risk governance.

3. Evolving Skill Expectations

Employers are increasingly focused on problem-solving, analytical thinking, and adaptability. According to the latest ISC² Hiring Trends Report, soft skills now rank among the top five competencies for early-career cybersecurity professionals. Technical expertise remains essential, but the ability to collaborate, communicate, and adapt to new technologies has become equally important.

4. The Misalignment of Supply and Demand

CyberSeek’s workforce heat map shows thousands of unfilled cybersecurity positions across the United States. Yet, many of these roles require experience or niche skills beyond what most graduates possess. This mismatch between academic training and industry requirements continues to slow the entry of new professionals into the field.

Strategic Actions for Job Seekers

Build Practical Experience

Developing a home lab using tools such as Security Onion, Wazuh, or Splunk can provide essential hands-on experience. Engaging in open-source projects or participating in capture-the-flag competitions can help bridge the gap between theory and practice.

Target Emerging Domains

Instead of competing for oversaturated analyst roles, graduates should focus on high-growth areas such as cloud security, identity and access management, AI-assisted threat detection, and compliance. These fields are less likely to be automated and often have more accessible entry points.

Pursue Relevant Certifications

Foundational credentials such as ISC² Certified in Cybersecurity (CC), CompTIA Security+, and CompTIA CySA+ remain highly valued for early-career professionals. These certifications demonstrate readiness without overstating experience levels.

Strengthen Human and Analytical Skills

Employers now seek candidates who can demonstrate critical thinking and clear communication. Academic projects, internships, and volunteer work in nonprofit organizations can serve as practical examples of collaboration and leadership.

Leverage Professional Networks

Networking remains vital. Graduates should engage with alumni, mentors, and professional associations such as ISACA, ISSA, or ISC² chapters. Smaller firms, local agencies, and managed service providers often provide more flexible entry opportunities than large enterprises.

A Look Ahead

While the “Great Freeze” has limited short-term hiring, the long-term demand for cybersecurity professionals remains strong. Global workforce forecasts continue to project a shortage of millions of skilled practitioners. Automation will likely eliminate some routine positions, but it will also create new roles requiring advanced judgment, ethical oversight, and human-AI collaboration.

For aspiring cybersecurity professionals, the current climate should not be seen as discouraging but as an opportunity to build capability and specialization. Those who invest in skill development and adaptability today will be positioned to lead as the market stabilizes.

Conclusion

The “Great Freeze” is reshaping how organizations hire, train, and retain cybersecurity talent. For entry-level professionals, breaking into the field now requires strategy, persistence, and a commitment to continuous learning. By combining technical mastery with adaptability and a proactive learning mindset, new graduates can transform this challenging period into a foundation for long-term success.

About the Author

Dr. Sunday Ogunlana is the Principal Consultant at OGUN Security Research and Strategic Consulting LLC, specializing in cybersecurity workforce readiness, AI governance, and digital risk management.