FAST Forward: Preparing the Next Generation of Security Professionals
By John Nemerofsky, Chairman of the Foundation for Advancing Security Talent (FAST)
The security industry isn’t going anywhere! As we look beyond 2025, it’s clear that we need to prepare a workforce equipped with the tools to secure our critical infrastructure, businesses, and schools.
The Foundation for Advancing Security Talent (FAST) is tasked with helping the up-and-coming workforce find their place in the security industry, so let us look at what is happening now, what is working, and what is next for our industry’s workforce.
Building the Workforce Pipeline
Build it and they will come! One of FAST’s main goals is to bring more people into the security industry by connecting talented people with good job opportunities. Our partnerships with schools, training programs, and industry groups help students and job seekers learn about careers in the security industry early on in their job search journey. How do you connect? The answer is simple: the FAST job board is making it easier for employers and job seekers to connect.
Recognizing Talented Security Professionals
Recognition matters! In 2025, FAST continued to shine a light on the talented and dedicated people who keep our industry running. Awards and recognition programs celebrate technicians, project managers, and other professionals. These programs show that an individual’s hard work and skill are valued and help to raise the profile of security careers, making the industry more attractive to new talent.
Employer Resources and Support
Employers need help, too! FAST is creating resources to make hiring, onboarding, and keeping good employees easier. They offer templates, guides, and best practices for recruiting and retaining staff. There are also career journey maps to help workers see their path forward, and leadership development programs are in place to help individuals grow into new roles.
Data and Insights
Good decisions need good data! The 2024 FAST Compensation & Benefits Study shows the average salaries, bonuses, and benefits for various positions from technician to directors. For example, sales directors in system integration companies earn an average base salary of $140,000. Operations directors in manufacturing average $170,930. The study also shows that most companies offer competitive pay and reward employees for earning new certifications.
Key Milestones from 2025
Milestones matter! This year, FAST has made progress in several key areas:
- The job board is busier than ever.
- Companies use the services provided to improve hiring and training.
- Technician recognition programs are growing.
- Employees see the benefits of certifications.
- The compensation study is helping set fair pay and benefits.
Priorities and Roadmap for 2026
Looking ahead! FAST has set clear goals for 2026. The focus will be on three main areas:
- Outreach: FAST will keep working to bring new people into the industry. This means more partnerships with schools, more public awareness campaigns, and more support for diversity.
- Research: FAST will continue to collect and share data on salaries, benefits, and workforce trends. This helps everyone make better decisions.
- Education: New training programs and leadership academies are on the way. These will help workers at every level build their skills and move up in their careers.
Technology is also a big part of the roadmap. FAST is helping companies and workers get ready for the future with new tools such as AI, cloud-based security systems, and advanced cybersecurity training. The security industry isn’t going anywhere, and FAST is making sure the industry has the talent it needs, now and in the years to come. Whether you are already working in the security industry or thinking about joining, there’s a place for you.
