Bridge Building: How Cross-Sector Collaborations Can Be the Silver Bullet to Address the Cybersecurity Workforce Shortage

Abstract

The global cybersecurity workforce shortage presents a critical challenge for national security and economic stability, and under-representation among students of color further exacerbates the shortage. Many collaborative programs have been developed to address these issues, yet inequities persist, and little research focuses on how these programs affect the accumulation of social capital. This article examines how collaboration across industry, academia, government, and community organizations can build pathways to engage and retain underrepresented students in cybersecurity. Drawing on social capital theory, the study highlights how networks, resources, and equity-centered approaches foster opportunities for participation. A review of two initiatives illustrates the value of industry-driven internships, government-supported scholarship programs, university partnerships, and community outreach in expanding exposure and support systems. Findings suggest that multi-sector collaboration not only enhances student awareness and skills but also addresses systemic barriers by building trust, providing mentorship, and integrating culturally responsive practices. The article concludes by outlining policy and practice implications, emphasizing the need for sustained investment in collaborative frameworks to diversify the cybersecurity workforce. KEYWORDS: cybersecurity workforce, diversity, students of color, social capital theory, critical race theory, industry-academia-government collaboration, community outreach, workforce development, equity in STEM