CompTIA Case Studies Collection

Solutions in Practice

German IT Training Provider alfatraining Oers Subsidized IT Classes to Give Jobseekers and Transitioners the Chance to Pursue and Grow Their Career in Tech.

ALFATRAININGWEISTMIT COMPTIA- ZERTIFIZIERUNGENDENWEG INDIE IT

HERAUSFORDERUNG IT-Fachkräfte sind auf dem Arbeitsmarkt stark nachgefragt, insbesondere fordern Unternehmen aufgrund von globalen Digitalisierungsprozessen für die Industrie 4.0 spezialisierte Fachkräfte im Bereich IT-Security, Cloud Computing und Netzwerktechnik. Arbeitssuchende, Wiedereinsteiger und alle, die sich beruflich neu orientieren oder weiterqualifizieren möchten, können ihre Chancen auf dem Arbeitsmarkt durch eine Weiterbildung bei alfatraining erhöhen.

ABOUT ALFATRAINING

alfatraining® ist eines der deutschlandweit führenden Bildungsunternehmen im Bereich der beruflichen

Weiterbildung. Das Unternehmen alfatraining wurde im Jahr 2005 gegründet und bietet mittlerweile über 300 modulare Kurse in allen arbeitsmarktrelevanten Fachbereichen an. Das Lehrangebot von alfatraining wird stetig an die Bedingungen von Industrie und Wirtschaft angepasst. Das Kursangebot reicht von Schulungen im technischen und IT-Bereich, über kaufmännische Lehrgänge und SAP- Qualifizierungen

LÖSUNG alfatraining bietet daher Weiterbildungen für IT- Innen und IT-Professionals in den folgenden Bereichen an: • Service- und Support-Techniker/-in mit CompTIA-Zertifizierung A+ • Netzwerk-Spezialist/-in mit CompTIA Zertifizierung Network+ • IT-Security-Administrator/-in mit CompTIA-Zertifizierung Security+ • IT-Cybersecurity-Analyst/-in mit CompTIA-Zertifizierung CySA+ • Cloud-Netzwerk-Administrator/-in mit CompTIA-Zertifizierung Cloud+ • Penetration Tester/Ethical Hacker mit CompTIA-Zertifizierung PenTest+ Hierzu werden modernen Trainingsmethoden mit alfaview® umgesetzt.

bis hin zu Sprachkursen und Bewerbungsmanagement.

Das Qualitätsmanagement¬ system von alfatraining ist nach DIN EN ISO 9001:2015 zertifiziert

ERGEBNIS Alle Kurse im Bereich CompTIA schließen mit den international anerkannten und herstellerunabhängigen CompTIA-Zertifizierungen ab. CompTIA-Zertifizierungen bestätigen den Teilnehmerinnen und Teilnehmern Kenntnisse in den jobrelevanten Themengebieten und geben Arbeitgebern Sicherheit bei der Einstellung von neuen Mitarbeitern. Das Lehrgangskonzept von alfatraining ist von der Agentur für Arbeit anerkannt und nach der Zulassungsverordnung AZAV zertifiziert. Die Seminare können in Voll- oder Teilzeit besucht werden und sind zu 100 % förderbar.

ALFATRAININGUSES COMPTIACERTIFICATIONS TO INTRODUCE PEOPLE TO IT

CHALLENGE IT specialists are in great demand on the labor market. Due to global digitization processes for industry 4.0, companies in particular are demanding specialized employees in the areas of IT security, cloud computing and network technology. Jobseekers, people re-entering the job market and all those who would like to reorient themselves professionally or further qualify can increase their chances on the job market by further training at alfatraining.

ABOUT ALFATRAINING

alfatraining® is one of Germany's leading training companies in the field of professional development. The company alfatraining was founded in 2005 and now offers over 300 modular courses in all labor market-relevant fields. The range of courses offered by alfatraining is constantly adapted to the conditions of industry and business. The courses offered range from technical and IT training, commercial courses and SAP qualifications up to language courses and application management.

SOLUTIONS alfatraining therefore offers advanced training for IT beginners and IT professionals in the following areas:

• Service and support technician with CompTIA certification A+ • Network Specialist with CompTIA certification Network+ • IT Security Administrator with CompTIA certfication Security+ • IT Cybersecurity Analyst with CompTIA certification CySA+ • Cloud network administrator with CompTIA certification Cloud+ • Penetration Tester/Ethical Hacker with CompTIA certification PenTest+ For this purpose, modern training methods are implemented with alfaview®.

RESULTS All CompTIA courses conclude with the internationally recognized and manufacturer-independent CompTIA certifications. CompTIA certifications confirm participants' knowledge in job-related topics and give employers security when hiring new employees. alfatraining's training concept is recognized by the German Federal Employment Agency and certified according to the AZAV. The seminars can be attended full-time or part-time and are 100% subsidized.

© 2020 CompTIA, Inc. All rights reserved. All certification programs and education related to such programs are operated exclusively by CompTIA, Inc. CompTIA is a registered trademark of CompTIA, Inc. in the U.S. and internationally. Other brands and company names mentioned herein may be trademarks or service marks of CompTIA, Inc. or of their respective owners. Reproduction or dissemination prohibited without the written consent of CompTIA, Inc. Printed in the U.S. 08143-Nov2020

Using CompTIA A+ Virtual Training to Upskill Employees on the Career Choice Programme

Using CompTIA Certifications to Set a Baseline of Skills for Developing Information Security Talent

CORPORATE CASE STUDY

ASICS Cyber-Incident Response TeamEstablishes Baseline Skills with CompTIA Certification

CHALLENGES • Increased Cybersecurity Needs: Following a series of cybersecurity incidents, ASICS decided to create an enterprise-level information security committee and information security management office. • Expanded Service Demands: Despite having incident response processes in place, ASICS needed to respond to cybersecurity threats in a more timely and effective fashion.

ASICS is a global athletic corporation based in Japan with operations inmore than 50 countries and regions. The company has been a leader in the athletic industry since its inception as a youth-oriented organization six decades ago. “As we look toward the future, we have adopted CompTIA certification as a requirement for developing security talent.” – Shigekazu Tanimoto Security Lead, Security Team, Global IT Division, ASICS

SOLUTIONS • Worldwide Network: ASICS created a network of contacts to facilitate communication about potential cybersecurity threats and incidents between its many regions. • CompTIA Certified Staff: ASICS now requires CompTIA Security+ to set a baseline of skills for developing information security talent.

RESULTS • Improved Process: ASICS created and implemented a new, more effective process for managing security threats and incidents that incorporated CompTIA certification. • Dedicated Team: ASICS established an incident response team as it ramped up for the 2020 Olympic Paralympic games (for which ASICS is a gold partner).

LESSONS LEARNED

• As a multi-region, global company, ASICS needs to be able to quickly and effectively respond to cybersecurity threats. • CompTIA certification provides the cybersecurity response teamwith solid baseline security training. • CompTIA Security+ validates the IT security skills needed to effectively manage and secure networks.

THE FULL STORY

ASICS Preps for 2020 and Beyondwith CompTIA Security+

A well-known name in the world of athletics, global multinational company ASICS was challenged to keep its networks secure. ASICS has built up a presence in more than 50 regions, but its cybersecurity operations hadn’t scaled accordingly. And, so, as the global cybersecurity threat land- scape began to grow, the company realized something needed to change. This became clear when, in 2015, ASICS fell victim to a few incidents that neither the company’s information security committee nor their information security management office were able to quickly and effectively address. The processes in place were not effective, and the staff tasked with handling such incidents didn’t have the comprehensive baseline security knowledge to adequately handle threats coming down the pike. The key to helping IT staff build these skills —and building a cybersecurity profile befitting of a global leader —was to in-

troduce CompTIA Security+ as a necessary requirement for the computer security incident response team (CSIRT). “As we look toward the future, we have adopted CompTIA certification as a re- quirement for developing security talent,” said Shigekazu Tanimoto, ASICS security lead, security team, global IT division. “We believe the global standard certification is effective for a CSIRT capable of flexibility for responding to incidents.” Since the implementation of Security+, ASICS has demonstrated quicker and more effective responses to cybersecurity threats. And the value of the certifications is reflected in the experience of those doing the hands-on cybersecurity work as well. “Since I started working on enhancing our company’s information security in 2016, I started to feel the importance of understanding servers, networking and operations more comprehensively,” said Osamu Murakami, ASICS security team,

global IT division. “The CompTIA examwas a perfect opportunity to restructure my information security knowledge.” “Attaining the CompTIA Security+ certification gave me confidence to speak in the same channel with security consultants and experts globally and learned best practices from each other.” – Alvin Lee Security Team, Global IT Division, ASICS Now ASICS has a big event on the horizon that will put the team’s cybersecurity skills to the test. As a gold partner for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Paralympic Games, the company will be garnering public attention—and a higher public profile often comes with unwanted attention fromhackers. But with a CompTIA Security+-certified IT team, ASICS will be up to the task.

“The CompTIA examwas a perfect opportunity to restructure my information security knowledge.” – Osamu Murakami , Security Team, Global IT Division, ASICS

CompTIA is the voice of the world’s information technology (IT) industry. Its members are the companies at the forefront of innovation and the professionals responsible for maximizing the benefits organizations receive from their investments in technology. CompTIA is dedicated to advancing industry growth through its educational programs, market research, networking events, professional certifications, and public policy advocacy. For more information, please visit CompTIA.org.

© 2017 CompTIA Properties, LLC, used under license by CompTIA Certifications, LLC. All rights reserved. All certification programs and education related to such programs are operated exclusively by CompTIA Certifications, LLC. CompTIA is a registered trademark of CompTIA Properties, LLC in the U.S. and internationally. Other brands and company names mentioned herein may be trademarks or service marks of CompTIA Properties, LLC or of their respective owners. Reproduction or dissemination prohibited without written consent of CompTIA Properties, LLC. Printed in the U.S. 03897-Jul2017

Using Network+ to Support Trainee Development

Network Know-How for Trainees at the Bechtle Group

The demand for networking skills are increasing all the time. This is why the Bechtle Group integrates the vendor agnostic CompTIA certificationNetwork+ into its training. The certification is used to enhance the specialist knowledge gained by young employees during their vocational training.

Bechtle AG is the largest IT system house in Germany serving 70,000+ customers from 75 locations in the DACH region and trading companies across 14 European countries. The business model combines IT services with the direct sale of IT products.

CHALLENGES Bechtlewas on the lookout for amanufacturer-independent IT certification to provide traineeswith a standard level of knowledge in the area of networking solutions.

SOLUTIONS Bechtle integrates CompTIANetwork+ systematically into its training portfolio. The courses are aimed at all technical trainees.

“With Network+, our technical trainees deepen the knowledge they have gained from vocational training and reallife experience and are an

excellent choice for upcoming projects.”

—Michael Konrad, Head of the Bechtle Akademie

THE FULL STORY

75 IT SYSTEMHOUSES IN THE DACH REGION (GERMANY, AUSTRIA, AND SWITZERLAND) AND TRADING COMPANIES IN 14 COUNTRIES The IT services and trading company Bechtle places a high premiumon the qualification of its employees and the systematic development of their specialist knowledge. In a highly dynamic industry, themanufacturer- independent, integrated services provided by Bechtle in the area of IT infrastructure demand the highest degree of expert knowledge fromtheir specialists. As the largest systemhouse in Germany and amajor European IT and e-com- merce company, Bechtle already offers awide range of further training opportunities in the Bechtle Akademie and prepares its employees systematically tomeet newchallenges. CompTIA CERTIFICATION IS THE PERFECT FIT To complement its existing range of training offers, Bechtlewas searching for the right certification thatwould qualify its technical trainees in accordancewith industry standards in the area of networking solutions inparticular. This step was takendue to the fact that companies increasingly demand integrated concepts for conference solutions, IP communications, video, messaging, mobile applications, and telepresence. The IT service provider, which serves 70,000+ customers fromawide range of industrial and service sectors aswell as the public sector, recognized this at an early stage and designed its portfolio accordingly. In its search for a suitable, universally recognized, andmanufacturer- independent certification; the BechtleGroup soon found exactlywhat itwas looking for by drawing on its existing contactwithCompTIA: The CompTIA certificationNetwork+ fulfils all of Bechtle’s requirements perfectly. STRATEGIC IMPORTANCE OF NETWORK COMPETENCY “As part of the IT solutions at Bechtle, networking solutions rank among our strategic goals. With the CompTIANetwork+ certification, we have succeeded in adding anothermodule to our training portfolio in the area of networking solutions that is practice-oriented and tailored exactly to our requirements,” explainsMelanie Schüle, head of business develop- ment in the area of networking solutions. CompTIANetwork+ offers trainees a broad foundationof knowledge in the area of network support that is completelymanufacturer-independent and tailored precisely toBechtle’s requirements. The certification confirms that course graduates are competent to install and configure network components. They are also capable of performing in-depth, professional troubleshooting. The specific course content, aswell as the learningmaterials andmethods to be used, were developed togetherwithCompTIA. This guarantees that course graduates acquire the precise IT competencies that Bechtle requires. “It exceeded all of our expectations,” confirmed personnel specialist Irina Fuchs. “Forty-four trainees from15 different Bechtle locations began the specialist training in October 2013whenwe added this certification to the trainee program. The trainees passed the exam in February 2014. That representsmore thanhalf of the technical trainees for a year" INDEPENDENT, FLEXIBLE LEARNING For the first time, Europe’s leading IT service provider decided to concentrate on self-study methods in specialist training instead of the more usual classroom-based teaching. This location-independent qualification offers a high degree of flexibility. Trainees can decide howmuch to study and when, based on their daily work schedule. At the start of the course, a trainer provides general information about the qualification and information about the methodology used. A wide variety of teaching materials are thenmade available for subsequent self-study: a textbook, training videos provided on a special platform, and a forumwhere trainees can exchange information. In addition, webinars are heldmonthly at which open questions can be clarified interactively with the trainer. The course ends with a classroom session in preparation for the examination. Network+ FOR A SUCCESSFUL FUTURE With the manufacturer-independent CompTIA Network+ certification, Bechtle is optimally equipped tomeet the continuously growing demand for network expertise. As technical trainees are introduced to this topic at an early stage, they are able to achieve a high standard of knowledge. And the investment has paid off: Bechtle benefits fromhighly qualified trainees while remaining an attractive employer for technically minded young people who aspire to a career in the IT industry. Due to course participants acquiring knowledge that goes beyond the stan- dard knowledge acquired in vocational education, they are an excellent choice for upcoming projects within their department.

For more information about Bechtle, see www.bechtle.com.

“As part of the IT solutions at Bechtle, networking solutions rank among our strategic goals. With the CompTIA Network+ certification, we have succeeded in adding another module to our training portfolio in the area of networking solutions that is practice-oriented and tailored exactly to our requirements.” – Melanie Schüle , Head of Business Development in the area of Networking Solutions

Clem Craven, Senior Cyber Security Training Team Manager from BT Security shares how he is using the CompTIA career pathway as a baseline to develop the skills of BT's Cyber Security teams around the world.

A funded programme selected by the UK Government to Support Individuals Reskill into Cyber Roles

CASE STUDY

Cyber Security Void Poses Growing Threat to UK Businesses: Cyber Ready CanHelp

CHALLENGES Nearly half (46%) of UK businesses, according to the Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2020, experienced cyber security breaches in the last 12months. And according to the latest government report (Cyber security skills in the labour market, 2020), 653,000 businesses (48%) have a basic skills gap. With theworkplace impacts of COVID-19 compounding an already complex cyber landscape, organisations cannot afford complacencywhen it comes to IT preparation and training. In light of the stark IT skills gap and the urgent need for digitally savvy, remoteworkforces, employers are actively seeking quality cyber security talent to bring new levels of preparedness to their workforce. With cyber-related salaries ranging from£20,000 to £80,000 or more, depending on experience, jobs in this fieldwill become evenmore lucrative in the comingmonths and years. “The biggest challenge in cyber security nowadays is that it’s really difficult to find good staff who are current andwho are passionate about the subject,” saidGary Fildes, Cyber Ready ExpertMentor. “There is a skill shortage, and CompTIA [certifications] address that gap.” Increasingly, IT applicants around the country are looking towork for companies that are prepared tomake an ongoing investment in the talent and skills-development of their people through such programmes and training initiatives as Cyber Ready. SOLUTION: CYBER READY In 2018, CompTIA launched the Cyber Ready programme nationally with hubs in Leeds, Glasgowand in London. Using amanaged, flipped-classroom learning experience, and with a requiredminimumof eight, weekly hours of independent study, Cyber Ready candidates learn via industry-standard content including video and adaptive questioning to build their knowledge and skills-base. Dedicated Cyber Security Trainers assign required learning and ensure candidates are on-track. A required, once-monthly in-personmeeting enables students to put their theoretical knowledge to the test as they complete various assigned, hands-on challenges. In the final workshop, participants are put through a healthy dose of competition as they participate inWargames to test their skill against other teams. Candidates are helped, beginning at programme enrolment, to find employment in a cyber security job role and are able to obtain two key certifications. “We’re confident in this programme as an effective way for anyone hoping to enter the field, or to retrain from an IT role, into a role as a Cyber Security Analyst. This programme ensures that they have the knowledge, skills and certifications they’ll need.”

Cyber Ready is a six-month- long training and education programme designed to improve the workplace readiness of anyone hoping to reskill or pursue a career in cyber security, around the UK.

“The exams are challenging, they are relevant, and they provide the knowledge and understanding to move forward into further certification.”

– Gary Fildes Cyber Ready

Expert Mentor

INDIVIDUAL PARTICIPANT RESULTS Sean, a participant in the initial Cyber Ready pilot programme, worked tedious 12-hour shifts in a call centre, but had ambitions to land amore established role as part of his cyber security career. He applied for Cyber Ready andmade a commitment to complete the 6-month programme. Because of his completion of Cyber Ready, Sean successfully passed both the Security+ and CySA+ certifications. Thanks to his enhanced qualifications, he nowworks as an Information Security Analyst. In the 12months since completing the programme, he has earned a £23,000 salary boost.

PROGRAMME-WIDE RESULTS • Since launching, the Cyber Ready programme has been selected to receive funding in theWest Midlands and the Northwest of England. • 75% of people who have completed the Cyber Ready programme found employment in cyber security job roles. • The UK Government’s Cyber security skills in the labour market 2020 report mentions Cyber Ready as an initiative cited for its impact on improving diversity in the cyber workforce.

IN SUMMARY: WHY CYBER READY?

• Those who successfully complete Cyber Ready will gain both the CompTIA Security+ and CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) certifications, in addition to job-search assistance, thus qualifying them for awide range of roles and competencies. • Participants can use the knowledge gained in Cyber Ready to upskill from the level of IT Technician to Cybersecurity Analyst. • Cyber Ready educational content is accessible onmobile devices, enabling a flexible learning environment for those with busy lives. • Participants gain access to representatives from cyber security organisations by way of regular talks and interactions. • As a part of the ongoing support package, candidates are given 12 months’ access to industry standard learning content before they sit for the Security+ and CySA+ exams. • A class size limit of 15 people ensures a highly motivated and diverse group of participants to learn with and from. • Applications are particularly encouraged fromwomen, disabled, Black, Asian andMinority Ethnic (BAME) candidates, given these groups’ underrepresented status in Technology.

“Cyber Ready holds great promise as a model to help solve the IT skills gap we’re experiencing in the UK.” – Zeshan Sattar , Director of Learning & Skills Certification, CompTIA

Learn more about the Cyber Ready Programme

IT-Haus bereitet die Service-Mitarbeiter mit CompTIA Network+ und Server+ auf die Aufgaben im Server- und Netzwerk-Support vor.

CORPORATE CASE STUDY

Internes Aus- undWeiterbildungskonzept: IT-HAUS ist dreifaches CompTIA Authorized Service Center

IT-HAUS istmitmehr als 20 Jahren Erfahrung und über 300Mitarbeitern eines der führenden deutschen IT-Systemhäuser. CompTIA-Zertifizierungen gehören bei demFöhrener Unternehmen zum festen Bestandteil der technischen Ausbildung.

IT-HAUS ist eines der Top System- undHandelshäuser inDeutschland. Als Anbieter nationaler und internationaler IT-Lösungenund Services bietet die IT-HAUSGmbH umfangreiche Full-Service-Konzepte aus einer Hand. Ein starkes und flächendeckendes Netzwerk weltweit, 25 bundesweite Standorte, 1 internationaler Standort in Luxembourg sowie über 300Mitarbeitermachen das Unternehmen zu einemder führendenAnbieter imB2B-Bereich.

HERAUSFORDERUNG • IT-HAUS suchte nach einemverlässlichen Gerüst für die interne Ausbildung • DieMitarbeiter sollen ein homogenesWissensniveau besitzen

LÖSUNG • IT-HAUS bindet CompTIA-Zertifizierungen frühzeitig in die Aus- undWeiterbildung ein • Verpflichtende Teilnahme für Schulungen

ERGEBNIS • Das Ausbildungskonzept stärkt die Arbeitgebermarke • Auszubildende werden rasch in die betriebliche Praxis eingebunden

„Die umfassende CompTIA-Zertifizierung unserer Mitarbeiter genießt bei internationalen Herstellern und unseren strategischen Partnern große Wertschätzung. Sie ermöglicht uns, Kunden eine breite Palette an Services zu bieten.“ – Dr. Thomas Simon, Geschäftsführer, IT-HAUS

GANZE GESCHICHTE

Mit Vollgas in den Beruf Über 5.000 Kunden aus ganz Deutschland setzen auf die Professionalität und Zuverlässigkeit von IT-HAUS. Von der Beratung über die Implementierung bis hin zur Wartung von digitaler Hardware und Software bietet das Unternehmen die gesamte Palette von Systemdienstleistungen. Mit Erfolg: Bereits vier mal wurde IT-HAUS in den letzten Jahren als "Bestes Systemhaus" von den Fachmagazinen Channelpartner und COMPUTERWOCHE ausgezeichnet. Der Awardwird seit 13 Jahren verliehen. IT-HAUS steht – wie kein anderes Systemhaus in dieser Umsatzklasse – bereits zum11. Mal auf Siegerpodest und blickt imRahmen der unabhängigen Systemhausstudie auf eine ausgezeichnete und konstante Leistung zurück. EinBausteindesErfolgs: IT-HAUS ist das ersteUnternehmenweltweit, dasdieBezeichnungCompTIAASC (Authorized ServiceCenter) in jedemder drei BereichePC-Support, Drucker-Support sowieNetzwerk- undServer-Support tragen darf. DieCompTIA-ASC-Akkreditierungbestätigt das großeKnow-howder IT-HAUS-Mitarbeiter und ist der Spiegel der hohenAnsprüche, die IT-HAUSandieeigeneQualität stellt. Diesbeginnt schonbei der Ausbildung. Nebendemstaatlichen AusbildungsprogrammdurchlaufenBerufseinsteiger bei IT-HAUS standardmäßigSchulungenundPrüfungen fur die CompTIA-Zertifizierung A+, Network+, Server+. Damit sichert IT-HAUSbei Nachwuchskräfteneineinheitlichesundhohes Wissensniveau. Zudemermöglicht der Erwerbder CompTIA-Zertifizierungden jungenTalenten, bereitswährendder AusbildungverantwortungsvolleundspannendeProjekte innerhalbdesUnternehmens zuübernehmen. Breites Basiswissen mit Praxisbezug Die von IT-HAUS genutzten CompTIA-Zertifizierung decken diewichtigsten Geschäftsfelder des Systemhauses ab. CompTIA A+ vermittelt Grundwissen imBereich PC-Support. CompTIANetwork+ und CompTIA Server+ bereiten auf Tätigkeiten imServer- undNetzwerk-Support vor. Die Zertifizierungen, ihre AnforderungenundWissensvermittlung eignen sichhervorragend für die innerbetriebliche Aus- undWeiterbildung. DerWissenserwerb für die CompTIA-Zertifizierung ist betont praxisorientiert undhebt zielgerichtet auf die Lösung vonhäufig auftretenden Fällendes Arbeitsalltags von IT-Spezialisten ab. Inhaltlich orientieren sichdie Zertifizierungennicht anherstellerspezifischen Anforderungenbei Hard- und Software, sondern vermittelnproduktunabhängig diewichtigstenKompetenzen für die jeweiligen Jobrollen. ImMittelpunkt der Trainings stehenuniversal einsetzbare, produktübergreifende Kenntnisse, die Absolventenunmittelbar in ihre betriebliche Praxis übertragen können. Die große Breite des vermitteltenKnow-hows bereitet zudemoptimal darauf vor, sich zu einem späteren Zeitpunkt vertieftes Spezialwissen zu einemoder verschiedenenHerstellerprodukten anzueignen. Sämtliche Zertifizierungen, ihre thematische Ausrichtung sowie ihre Inhalte entwickelt CompTIA gemeinsammit führenden großen undmittelständischenHerstellern vonHard- und Softwareprodukten. Sie bilden stets den aktuellen Bedarf derWirtschaft ab und sichern den Zertifizierungen eine schnelle Integration in die IT-Service-Organisation von Unternehmen. Der Erfolg unterstreicht die hoheWertschätzung, die CompTIA-Zertifizierungen rund umden Globus genießen: Keine herstellerneutralen IT-Zertifizierungen sindweltweit verbreiteter als die von CompTIA. Attraktiver Arbeitgeber für junge Talente Umdas interne Aus- undWeiterbildungskonzept reibungslos umsetzen zu können, verfügt IT-HAUS über Mitarbeiter, die als CompTIA Trainer ausgebildet sind. Sie bereiten die Auszubildenden undMitarbeiter in Blockseminaren auf die Prüfungen vor, die ebenfalls von IT-HAUS als CompTIA-Testcenter abgenommenwerden. Der große Vorteil: IT-HAUS kann selbst festlegen, wann die Seminare stattfinden, und kann den Zeitplan so optimal auf die internen Bedürfnisse abstimmen. Für IT-HAUS gehen die Bemühungen auf: Auch im laufenden Ausbildungsjahr konnte das Unternehmen 14 Ausbildungsplätze imeigenenHausmit vielversprechenden Talenten besetzen.

A collaborative bootcamp selected by Mission Economic Development Corporation to train unemployed and underemployed individuals in the Rio Grande Valley region

PARTNERSHIP SUCCESS STORY

Aborder community’s game-changing programlaunches ITcareers

MISSION, TEXAS was originally founded by entrepreneurs. In 2017, enlightened government leaders rejuvenated this entrepreneurial spirit by creating a program to build a certified IT workforce. Forty unemployed and underemployed individuals participated in fully-funded, rigorous IT training. Graduates have found high-quality IT employment, andMission, TX is filling the IT skills gap for large and small local businesses. Mission, TX is a population of modest economic background, so providing fully-funded IT training, with no direct cost to the student, was critical to the program’s success. In early 2017, the Mission Economic Development Corporation (EDC) formed a strategic partnership with CompTIA, the world’s largest nonprofit IT association. These organizations collaborated to develop a unique IT talent pool of minorities, ready to fill job roles, so desperately needed, to close the IT skills gap. NowMission, TX is able to strategically attract, grow and retain financially vibrant businesses in the local community.

“This bootcamp is focused on filling a need in professional certification of IT workers in cybersecurity. The demand for certified workers encompasses all industries in IT departments and companies that provide IT services to businesses both large and small,” said Alex Meade, Mission EDC CEO.

THE FULL STORY

Designing a Custom IT Training Solution: After assessing the 40 students’ IT knowledge base, CompTIA designed a custom, high- quality assessment, training and certifications solution, meeting Mission EDC’s timing, operational logistics and budget. With 20 years as the leading provider of IT certifications and a nonprofit status, CompTIA consistently provides superlative training that is cost effective compared to for-profit training solutions. Delivering High-Quality Training: During the rigorous, accelerated 8-week program, CompTIA delivered on-site, best- in-class training, tailored tomeet diverse learning preferences of the students. CompTIA also provided learning content; instructor-guided labs for complete immersion; and, CertMaster, a test prep software. THE RESULTS Upon completing the comprehensive training program, the 40 participantswere offered, and some validated, their IT knowledge by earning several CompTIA certifications: A+, Network+, Security+ and Cybersecurity Analyst+. CompTIA’s vendor-neutral skills certifications are employer-driven. Job roles are the cornerstone of our IT certifications. Many employers rely on certifications as a screening or hiring criteria during recruitment. • 100 percent of students completing theMission, TX, training programearned their A+ andNetwork+ certifications. • These graduateswere certified towork and fill the growing need inMission, TX for a robust IT talent pipeline. • Mission, TX has strategically attracted and retained financially vibrant businesses in the local community. “These programs offered by TWC provide local workforce boards with an opportunity to partner with organizations and foster programs that will provide our local workforcewith in-demand skills training that lead to high paying sustainable careers,” said Francisco Almaraz, Workforce Solutions CEO.

THE CHALLENGES Likemost communities along the US/Mexico border, Mission, Texas, which is located in the Rio Grande Valley has: • sizable unemployed and underemployed populations, consisting primarily of minorities; • challenges attracting new, larger employers into the community; • and employers seeking to fill their IT skills gaps, especially regarding cybersecurity. A CompTIA analysis found that employers across Texas posted job openings for 38,190 core IT positions inQ4 2017; and for more than 165,479 tech jobs in 2017. THE SOLUTION In early 2017, theMission Economic Development Corporation (EDC) formed a strategic partnershipwith CompTIA, the world’s largest nonprofit IT association. These organizations collaborated to design a comprehensive programto recruit, train and place unemployed and underemployed individuals in higher-paying IT careers, with a focus on cybersecurity. By providing a trained IT pipeline, Mission EDCwould bewell-poised to attract, growand retain leading-edge businesses requiring IT security skills. Workforce Solutions andMission EDC conducted successful recruitment outreach to thousands of local individuals, with a demographic focus onminorities andwomen. Several hundred people entered the screening phase, duringwhich CompTIA conducted an assessment of each applicant’s IT knowledge base. After thorough vetting, 40 participantsmet theWorkforce Innovation andOpportunity Act’s basic eligibility requirements andwere admitted to the IT training program.

“This collaboration between Mission EDC and CompTIA will benefit both the local community and its workforce,” said Texas Workforce Commissioner Representing Labor Julian Alvarez. “Texas’ labor force is the backbone of the Texas economy. It is made up of hard-working individuals who are eager to obtain the skills that our employers need.”

For more information, please email: statelocalgov@comptia.org

© 2018 CompTIA Properties, LLC, used under license by CompTIA Certifications, LLC. All rights reserved. All certification programs and education related to such programs are operated exclusively by CompTIA Certifications, LLC. CompTIA is a registered trademark of CompTIA Properties, LLC in the U.S. and internationally. Other brands and company names mentioned herein may be trademarks or service marks of CompTIA Properties, LLC or of their respective owners. Reproduction or dissemination prohibited without written consent of CompTIA Properties, LLC. Printed in the U.S. 05212-May2018

Finding a common language to allow all analysts and teams to work from the same playbook and remain current on cybersecurity issues

CORPORATE CASE STUDY

Secureworks Relies on CompTIA Security+ as Playbook for New& Experienced Analysts Alike

Even those working in dedicated cybersecurity positions benefit from a shared learning resource and certification process to keep their knowledge fresh. For employees at cybersecurity firm Secureworks in Bucharest, CompTIA Security+ serves as not only an on-the-job certification tool, but also a pathway to promotion, and the playbook for critical cybersecurity updates and information sharing.

Secureworks , a 700-person- strong cybersecurity firm in Bucharest, Romania, that uses threat detection software and two decades of IT consulting expertise to keep clients safe from existing and emerging cyber threats.

CHALLENGES • Find a common language to allow all analysts and teams to work from the same playbook and remain current on cybersecurity issues, while promoting a culture of on-the-job learning and skills development • Maintain a shared baseline of knowledge as the company grew from 40 to 700 employees in just four years • Ensure a consistently high level of quality and service for clients during a time of growth and development

“It helps us stay current and aware, and also helps our analysts develop their their spirit to speak freely, to learn and to go even deeper with their knowledge.” Cristian Zaharia Security Operations Manager at Secureworks

SOLUTIONS CompTIA Security+ is a vendor-neutral, globally trusted IT certification that validates the baseline skills necessary for IT professionals to perform core security functions and pursue or build upon an IT security career.

RESULTS 500 Security+ certifications are held by SecureWorks’ 700 employees, with Security+ serving as an onboarding tool, a requirement for internal promotions, and a knowledge-sharing vehicle among and between teams.

“CompTIA Security+ is the baseline for our analysts….As long as you have this certification, we speak the same language.” – Cristian Zaharia , Security Operations Manager at Secureworks

THE FULL STORY

One Company HelpingMany

For the average business, IT security is an intimidating and time-consuming space with vast margin for error and dire ramifications if protocol isn’t followed. The global average cost of a data breach sits at $3.9 million and requires an average of 279 days to identify and contain1. In reality, many businesses struggle to grasp, let alone manage, the nature of the threats facing them, and often turn to a third party for cybersecurity expertise. For a company that prides itself on the ability to keep other businesses safe in the digital space, world-class cybersecurity is a non-negotiable way of life and getting it wrong isn’t an option. Secureworks is one such company, based in Bucharest, Romania, whose statedmission is to protect organisations in a digitally connected world using sophisticated threat detection software and drawing fromover twenty years of expertise in security consulting. One of the biggest challenges they face is how to ensure that they maintain consistent quality and service for their clients. This has been of particular importance as they grew their presence from 40 to 700 employees in just four years. With that kind of rapid growth and a diverse workforce, it was essential that they find a common IT language for existing and new employees alike.

Finding a Cybersecurity Playbook

In order to build a diversely talented and well-rounded team in a relatively small market, Secureworks has historically employed people with a wide variety of IT backgrounds. Sometimes that has meant recruiting fromoutside of traditional cybersecurity roles and from diverse industries. Naturally that means new hires don’t always come equipped with a fully stocked cybersecurity vocabulary. Someone from another industry who is highly experienced in dealing with clients, for example, might require some work to reach the baseline for cybersecurity knowledge before being fully prepared to handle the job requirements. On-the-job training is increasingly a part of the employment landscape, particularly in the IT realmwhere threats evolve daily and “expertise” is a moving target. In the case of Secureworks, CompTIA Security+ certification tool offered a viable solution to their problem of building andmaintaining a fresh and consistent cybersecurity knowledge base that teams could use to provide top-notch service to their clients. With its performance-based and real-world scenario questions, learning happens seamlessly in Security+, and assessment feels natural. Secureworks chose CompTIA from a variety of providers because of the consistent curricula within Security+, which covers a wide array of concepts in one convenient space. Secureworks chose to use Security+ in conjunction with CompTIA certification prep tool CertMaster Practice. With CertMaster Practice questions conveniently organised around examobjectives, Secureworks employees can feel confident that they have fully prepared for the exam. CertMaster Practice also identifies a user’s areas of strengths and weaknesses, helping thembe more efficient in their exam preparation by spending time reviewing areas of deficiency

On-the-Job Learning Is a Necessity

“In the first month after someone joins Secureworks, they need to prepare to deliver to the client, but also to start working on their certification,” explained Cristian Zaharia, Security Operations Manager at Secureworks. “With Security+, they don’t have to rush. We want to give our people the chance to choose their path and development areas. Security+ lets themdo that and gives them a full year before their exam.” Secureworks teams use Security+ to do spot checks of employee knowledge in various specific cybersecurity issues. For example, Zaharia shared, he might assign a teammember to research CAPTCHA security technology via Security+ and then ask them to present back to the teamon emerging trends in that area. In this way, knowledge sharing in and amongst teams is a constant. This kind of collaborative work and learning environment is vital to helping thembest serve their clients’ ever-changing cybersecurity needs.

A Gold Standard for Cybersecurity Knowledge

Nearly three-quarters of Secureworks’ employees hold Security+ credentials at present, with some 500 credentials held company-wide. While Security+ isn’t the only certification Zaharia’s team relies on, as a vendor-neutral offering, it’s widely considered to be the gold standard for cybersecurity.

“CompTIA helps our people become better analysts,” he shared. For his employees and colleagues, it provides not only upskilling and certification, but a direct pathway to promotion for many hoping to move from Analyst to Senior Analyst. As the company grows, this kind of consistent learning and growth tool will be a must. In cybersecurity, that’s more than half the battle. – Cristian Zaharia , Security Operations Manager at Secureworks

¹ “Cost of a Data Breach Report: 2019”, Ponemon Institute, (2019), https://databreach calculator.mybluemix.net/executive- summary

An Internal Training Programme using CompTIA A+ and Network+ Certifications

CORPORATE CASE STUDY

Certified TeamTakes Holistic Approach to Troubleshooting

CHALLENGES • Well-Rounded Service: Sharp wanted its technicians to troubleshoot the problem, not just the Sharp product. • Knowledge Baseline: Sharp wanted to set a baseline of knowledge among the team so that anyone could help any customer.

Sharp Electronics Corporation manufactures consumer elec- tronics ranging fromprinters to robots. Headquartered in Osaka, Japan, it employs more than 50,000 people. Sharp Business Systems of North Carolina is a direct sales division of Sharp Electronics Corporation and provides customer support for Sharp products.

SOLUTIONS • Team Training: Sharp supports employees who are earning their certification by giving them time to study and access to training materials. • CompTIA Certifications: With the knowledge gained from CompTIA A+ and Network+ , Sharp technicians have the expertise to help customers get their Sharp products back online, nomatter the issue.

RESULTS • Out of 71 teammembers, 57 have CompTIA A+ and 39 have CompTIA Network+ . • Sharp technicians can find a solution. Period.

LESSONS LEARNED

• Help employees succeed on their exams by providing training materials and forming study groups, and encourage employees who already have their certifications to tutor those who are studying. • Use certifications to establish a baseline of knowledge across the team so that anyone who responds to a service call can help resolve the issue. • Empower employees to take customer service to the next level by looking at what may be causing the problem, whether it’s your product or something else.

THE FULL STORY

A+ and Network+ Add Another Layer of Skills for Sharp Techs

Sharp Business Systems of North Carolina’s service department helps customers trou- bleshoot their Sharp devices. But it doesn’t end there. What sets Sharp apart from its competitors is that its technicians work to find a solution. Period. So, that may mean working on Sharp products, or it may mean identifying issues and finding solutions for computers, networks or anything else that may not be working quite right. “Our techs are responsible for resolving the issue, no matter what,” said Lee Cook, technical trainer for Sharp USA. “It’s a differentiator between our service depart- ment and some of our competitors. We have one team that works as a team, and everyone can do basic troubleshooting.” Rather than specializing in one skill or one product, Sharp technicians are well-round- ed IT pros who can fix anything, which is why the team is required to have CompTIA A+ and CompTIA Network+ certifications.

“The way the industry is going, there’s more computer knowledge to interface with these machines,” Cook said. “We real- ly like employees to have one or the other certification when they start.” Although Sharp prefers to hire staff who already hold these certifications, Cook said new employees who don’t have them can work to obtain themwithin their first year of employment. To give them every oppor- tunity for success, Cook and Service Man- ager Kirk Leonard help employees prepare for the exam using products like CompTIA CertMaster, assorted study materials and performance-based question simulators. Employees are encouraged to form study groups, and those who already have certifi- cations tutor those who don’t yet. “It adds another layer of knowledge to their skill set,” Cook said. “Studying the material and taking the tests is teaching them how to utilize and work with these environments. It’s giving them another tool to work from.”

Out of 71 teammembers, 57 have CompTIA A+ and 39 have CompTIA Network+. Cook himself earned his A+ certification 22 years ago and believes it’s what got his foot in the door at Sharp. With more than 80 percent of the team holding CompTIA A+ certification, Sharp Business Systems of North America received the CompTIA Certified Team Award.

“I like the programs, and I like what it adds to our service department,” Cook said.

“[CompTIA certifications add] another layer of knowledge to their skill set. Studying the material and taking the tests is teaching them how to utilize and work with these environments. It’s giving them another tool to work from.” – Lee Cook, Technical Trainer, Sharp USA

A collaborative project to support Microsoft’s Data Academy Upskilling and Reskilling Programme

Southern Virginia Higher Education Center Fuels Local Economy by Filling Critical IT Skills Gaps

The Southern Virginia Higher Education Center (SVHEC) is a state agency located in South Boston, Virginia. The SVHEC serves approximately 13 counties including several inNorth Carolina. A combination of ongoing and forward-thinking efforts by regional leaders in government, higher education and private sector businesses have positioned the SVHEC region to develop IT and other formidable career pathways for its populations.

CHALLENGES The history of Southern Virginia’s economy is similar tomany regions in the United States, with periods of prosperity and relative decline. For many years Southern Virginia’s tobacco and textile industries fueled the twin economic engines driving the entire state. However, beginning in the 1970s, several factors challenged the economic vitality of Southern Virginia including the offshoring of textilemanufacturing jobs, the declining consumer demand for tobacco products and financial shocks like the Great Recession of 2008. The region’s leaders were challenged to create opportunities for sustainable career pathways for the newly unemployed. In the 1980s, various technology companies found Southern Virginia an attractive location to establish lower-cost operations. Initially these companies hired and relocated their IT talent from larger cities. Eventually, these recruits would accept positions closer to home, creating a vacuumof long-term, dedicated IT talent. These technology companies faced the challenges of a revolving door of IT talent and thus, higher than acceptable employee turnover costs.

“We wanted a strong certification that was industry recognized and CompTIA fit the bill.”

– Kelly Shotwell IT Academy Director

SOLUTIONS In 1986, South Boston and Halifax community leaders formed a unique partnership with degree-granting institutions tomake programs available in South Boston at what would become the SVHEC. The SVHEC partners provided access to in-demand certificates and degrees, in healthcare, education, human services, business, and criminal justice. Over the past six years, the SVHEC has expanded to deliver short-term, technical job training in high demand occupations including welding, mechatronics, HVAC, and IT.

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