• To become a CISO, you first need to get your bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, information technology. A bachelor’s degree will give you the technical foundation to protect an organization’s computer networks, assets, and systems.
• You should then consider pursuing a cybersecurity master’s degree if you want to move into a senior-level leadership position like the CISO. Some CISOs have a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) or a master’s of cybersecurity.

Learn tools like Wireshark, Kali Linux, Splunk, Nmap, Metasploit. Start with certifications:

• Cyber Gyan: https://www.cdac.in/
• CompTIA Security+ www.udemy.com/course/securityplus (often discounted or free via state workforce programs)
• TryHackMe or Hack The Box (free tiers for practical labs)

• Cybrary – Security courses with a free plan
• TryHackMe – Hands-on labs (many are free)
• Google Cybersecurity Certificate (Coursera – free with financial aid)
• Cisco NetAcad – Free networking & cybersecurity courses

• CompTIA Security+ -
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
• Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

• Start in Entry-Level Roles:Positions like Security Analyst, SOC Analyst, or IT Support help build foundational security skills.
• Progress to Technical Roles: Move into roles such as Network Security Engineer, Penetration Tester, or Incident Responder.
• Use Practical Platforms: Practice on TryHackMe, Hack The Box, and RangeForce (free/low-cost hands-on labs).
• Participate in Real-World Scenarios: Threat analysis skills / Incident handling expertise / Familiarity with security tools and infrastructure

• Understand Business & Risk
• Learn risk management, compliance, budgeting, and business continuity.
• Strengthen Communication Skills: Practice translating technical issues into business impact for executives.
• Use Free Learning Platforms:
  • edX, Coursera, LinkedIn Learning – Free business & leadership courses (many offer free audit options)
  • Learn frameworks like NIST, CIS Controls, ISO 27001 (free docs & guides available)
• Lead Small Security Teams or Projects

• Move into Mid-Level Leadership: Roles like Security Manager, IT Risk Manager, or GRC Lead help build strategic oversight skills.
• Oversee Teams & Security Programs: Manage incident response plans, compliance efforts, and security operations.
• Work Cross-Functionally: Collaborate with departments like Legal, HR, and IT to align security with business goals.
• Build Experience with Governance Tools: Tools: GRC platforms (e.g., RSA Archer, ServiceNow GRC), SIEM management, policy frameworks.
• Track Metrics & Report to Executives: Practice delivering security KPIs, risk dashboards, and executive briefings.

Keep up with trends, attend conferences, and be active in professional security communities.

• Follow Cybersecurity Trends
• Join Professional Communities
• Attend Conferences & Webinars
• Earn CPEs (Continuing Professional Education)
• Connect with Other Security Leaders

• Leverage Your Experience: Use your technical, leadership, and risk management background to step into executive-level conversations.
• Tailor Your Personal Brand: Update your LinkedIn, resume, and speaking engagements to reflect strategic security leadership.
• Target the Right Opportunities: Apply for roles like Deputy CISO, Director of Information Security, or CISO at mid-sized firms/startups as a first step.
• Showcase Business Alignment: Highlight how your security vision supports revenue protection, compliance, and customer trust.
• Prepare for Executive Interviews: Be ready to discuss incident response plans, regulatory strategy, board reporting, and security ROI