Spotlight on Dr. Peter Schuermann: A story of perseverance, continuous learning, and community

According to ISC2, the global cybersecurity workforce gap stands at a staggering 4.8, with 90% of organizations identifying critical skill shortages in areas like AI, cloud computing security, Zero Trust implementation, digital forensics and incident response, application security, and penetration testing. Programs like What's Next by Okta Learning are stepping up to address this pressing challenge, empowering individuals to reskill or upskill and fill vital roles in Identity and Access Management (IAM).

Dr. Peter Schuermann is one inspiring success story from the What's Next initiative. With over 30 years of technology experience at leading companies like IBM and Microsoft, Schuermann has held diverse roles in project management, technical account management, and customer support. Encouraged by former colleagues who now work at Okta, he explored the What's Next program and applied without any prior experience with Okta's platforms.

Schuermann, who holds a Doctorate in Strategic Leadership, embodies the spirit of lifelong learning. He was drawn to the program's free, on-demand training courses and the vibrant community of learners. Leveraging the program's private LinkedIn group, he quickly connected with mentors like Preston Kingand Cherry Yang, who generously shared their insights.

"Preston spent an hour-and-a-half going through use cases with me," Schuermann recalls. "That gave me the confidence I needed to pass the Okta Certified Professional Hands-On Configuration exam."

While participating in the program, Peter secured a new role in R&D Operations at SAS in Cary, NC. Although the position isn't directly tied to IAM, he was able to highlight his engagement in the What's Next program and his Okta certification, demonstrating his commitment to staying relevant in a rapidly evolving field.

Schuermann has a clear vision to continue working for another decade, focused on helping others achieve their goals. A strong advocate for servant leadership, he aims to lift others as he was lifted, remaining connected to the What's Next program to mentor newcomers.

His journey illustrates the transformative impact of the What's Next program - equipping individuals with the knowledge and credentials to thrive in cybersecurity. With Certification Magazinereporting that 87% of Okta Certified Administrators experience increased demand for their skills post-certification, Peter's story is a powerful reminder of the value of continuous learning, community support, and perseverance.

If you're ready to embark on a similar journey, the What's Next program by Okta Learning could be your pathway into one of today's most critical fields. Are you prepared to learn new, marketable skills like Peter Schuermann and reshape your career? Apply for What's Next by Okta Learningtoday, and start your journey toward becoming an in-demand cybersecurity professional.

The What's Next program is a unique learning grant initiative that offers individuals in the U.S. the opportunity to enhance their skills and pursue careers in technology. Participants gain free access to Okta's on-demand course catalog and vouchers for a free premier practice exam and a free certification exam. This program specifically targets those who are currently unemployed and are actively seeking technical roles in IAM, as well as veterans and military spouses in transition to civilian life. If you or someone you know fits this description, we encourage you to apply.

Dr. Scott Wesley, a Lead Certification Program Manager at Okta, brings over 30 years of expertise in employee assessment, certification, and testing. He oversees the Professional, Administrator, and Workflows certification programs at Okta and holds a PhD and Master's in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from Georgia Tech. He is a former Adjunct Professor at the University of Oklahoma, and lives in central FL.