The rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape has intensified the demand for skilled professionals. In response, Help AG has launched the MSS Graduate Program, a structured, year-long initiative designed to equip young graduates with the practical skills, industry certifications, and mentorship needed to excel in cybersecurity. Spearheaded by Sunil Sharma, Vice President – Managed Security Services at Help AG, the program aims to bridge the talent gap by transforming aspiring professionals into industry-ready cybersecurity experts. By fostering strong academic partnerships and providing immersive learning experiences, Help AG is not only addressing current talent shortages but also actively shaping the future of cybersecurity in the region.
Sunil Sharma, with 24 years of cybersecurity experience across seven countries, has been leading one of the region’s largest Managed Security Services (MSS) teams since 2020, comprising over 200 professionals. Having witnessed a growing talent gap in cybersecurity both globally and regionally, Sharma was inspired to create a program that would strategically address this issue. The MSS Graduate Program is designed to identify, train, and mentor young graduates, aligning their skills with industry needs and preparing them for full-time roles within Help AG’s team. This program has received strong industry support and plays a crucial role in building a sustainable pipeline of skilled cybersecurity professionals.
The MSS Graduate Program is meticulously structured into distinct phases to provide a comprehensive cybersecurity learning experience. It begins with the “Back-to-School” phase, which reinforces fundamental cybersecurity concepts, ensuring graduates have a strong foundation that goes beyond academic knowledge. During this phase, graduates receive specialized training through Udemy, a strategic partner of Help AG, and engage in hands-on simulations via Immersive Labs. Experienced Help AG mentors provide guidance throughout the process, with regular evaluations to monitor and assess progress.
Following this, graduates enter the “On-the-Job Training” phase, where they are assigned to different streams based on their interests and performance. These streams include areas such as engineering, Security Operations Center (SOC), and automation. Over six months, graduates gain practical experience by analyzing threat alerts and progressively tackling more complex tasks. By the end of this phase, they are well-prepared to contribute effectively to real-world projects and the cybersecurity industry as a whole.
To ensure the program remains relevant in the fast-paced and ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape, Help AG integrates the MITRE ATT&CK framework into its curriculum. This globally recognized resource continuously updates threat models based on real-world adversarial behaviors, providing graduates with the latest insights into emerging cybersecurity threats and mitigation strategies. Additionally, Help AG collaborates with leading vendors to offer specialized training on the latest tools, technologies, and security solutions. These industry-driven initiatives equip participants with the skills needed to address current cybersecurity challenges while fostering adaptability to face future threats.
One of the significant challenges graduates face is transitioning from academic learning to industry applications, particularly in adapting to the dynamic and fast-paced nature of cybersecurity environments. To help ease this transition, the MSS Graduate Program offers daily check-ins, weekly evaluations, and mentorship from experienced team leaders. Graduates also benefit from hands-on learning experiences through simulations and shadowing, effectively bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. The program’s flexible approach ensures tailored support for each participant, fostering confidence and competence as they develop into cybersecurity professionals.
Help AG recognizes the importance of hands-on experience in cybersecurity. The program collaborates with leading vendors, including Immersive Labs, to provide trainees with simulated real-world challenges. In addition to internal training, the program also supports career placements, enabling graduates to explore professional opportunities within Help AG as well as with its clients. This strategic approach not only enhances graduates’ practical skills but also strengthens the regional cybersecurity talent pool, ensuring a steady pipeline of industry-ready professionals.
A key component of the MSS Graduate Program’s success is its strong partnerships with academic institutions. Help AG actively collaborates with universities such as the University of Wollongong in Dubai and the University of Sharjah to align academic learning with industry needs. Through initiatives like career fairs, internships, guest lectures, and curriculum contributions, students gain a balanced education that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills. These collaborations help bridge the gap between academia and industry, ensuring a continuous supply of well-prepared graduates who are ready to tackle real-world cybersecurity challenges.
The MSS Graduate Program has already proven its effectiveness, with the first cohort achieving a 100% employment success rate within Help AG. One notable success story involves a graduate who led the launch of a new service and became the primary client liaison, earning a monthly performance award among a team of 550 members. These success stories underscore the program’s impact in developing capable and confident cybersecurity professionals ready to take on critical roles in the industry.
Help AG is committed to addressing gaps in traditional cybersecurity education, which often struggles to keep pace with the rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape. The MSS Graduate Program bridges this gap through a combination of mentorship, curriculum collaboration, and practical engagements. Help AG extends these initiatives across diverse regions, including India, Oman, UAE, and KSA, ensuring graduates receive industry-relevant training and exposure. As part of the e& group, Help AG also nurtures young talent through hackathons, innovation forums, and open days, providing comprehensive development opportunities for the next generation of cybersecurity leaders.
Sunil Sharma emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and upskilling for aspiring cybersecurity professionals. In a competitive job market, candidates must go beyond traditional degrees by pursuing micro-credentials and industry-recognized certifications. Certifications like Cisco CCNA, which are easily accessible online, demonstrate specialized skills and a proactive approach to learning. By continuously upskilling, developing niche expertise, and maintaining a forward-thinking mindset, aspiring professionals can differentiate themselves and position themselves as high-value contributors to the cybersecurity industry.
Through the MSS Graduate Program, Help AG is making significant strides in building a skilled and adaptable cybersecurity workforce. By investing in talent development, fostering industry-academic partnerships, and staying aligned with the latest cybersecurity trends and challenges, Help AG is not only bridging the current talent gap but also shaping the future of cybersecurity in the region.