According to recent research, technology executives in the U.S. believe that cybersecurity threats will be the most significant challenge for businesses over the next ten years, impacting their hiring strategies.
A study involving 1,000 C-suite executives focused on cybersecurity or data management found that nearly two-thirds, about 64%, regard data breaches and ransomware as the primary threats in the decade ahead.
Moreover, over half of the companies studied, around 56%, have already taken measures to defend against hacking attempts. Specifically, 43% have encountered data breaches, while 14% have suffered successful hacks.
Given the prevalence of high-profile security breaches lately, it makes sense that 53% of executives see cybersecurity skills as vital for future talent development.
Conducted by Talker Research for Per Scholas, the study identified adaptability and problem-solving skills (52%) and digital/technical skills (38%) as other top priorities. Additionally, 42% of executives emphasized the importance of understanding and developing AI skills.
As the AI landscape evolves rapidly, 48% of business leaders indicate that integrating AI and other emerging technologies presents a significant challenge. Furthermore, 35% mentioned that growing regulations around AI are among their top three concerns.
However, this adaptation comes with mental challenges, as almost all respondents (95%) agree that an increased focus on AI will impact how data is managed. Surprisingly, 87% believe that AI is crucial and has transformed business challenges.
The survey also highlighted a disconnect: only 48% of participants believe their companies are “very prepared” for potential cyberattacks.
Interestingly, just about half (51%) of employees reported being “very aware” of their company’s cybersecurity initiatives. On a positive note, if offered, 88% expressed interest in further training, though most indicated they could only spare less than two hours weekly—or roughly 7.1 hours monthly.
Despite that, 81% employ two-factor or multi-factor authentication and regularly update their software (73%), while also taking steps to secure sensitive data by backing it up.
Nevertheless, lingering concerns exist regarding the handling of this sensitive information.
Common worries, such as phishing attempts (52%) and unauthorized access through external parties (42%), and a lack of encryption (41%), remain prevalent.
The survey also revealed that only 45% of employees are “very aware” of where sensitive data is stored within their organization.
“AI touches everything from daily operations to overarching strategies, yet cybersecurity issues remain central in the AI economy,” one respondent noted. “Our research suggests employees are willing to help protect sensitive data, which is a crucial step. By providing thorough training and keeping ahead of evolving threats, businesses can adopt AI innovations while ensuring security.”
Data centers—key facilities housing servers and networking equipment for managing large volumes of data—are seeing significant growth worldwide. Nearly all respondents (95%) believe these centers will be vital for a burgeoning economy.
As AI becomes more integrated into daily life, 66% of respondents see it as a major factor in the growth of the data center industry.
However, only 57% of C-suite leaders and merely 37% of employees feel confident that the industry can meet the rising demand for data centers in the next five years.
It’s interesting to note that while both executives and employees agree that technical cybersecurity skills (82%) are crucial, they also highlight the importance of soft skills like problem-solving (79%) and communication (61%).
Organizations aiming to scale in response to this demand face hurdles, including “recruiting and retaining talent,” navigating “changing regulatory compliance,” and “enhancing existing expertise.”
“Data centers are increasingly becoming the backbone of the digital economy, supporting the infrastructure that modern companies depend on,” one expert observed. “It’s a common misconception that robust cybersecurity is only necessary for large firms. In reality, threats affect organizations of all sizes. Strengthening security measures, investing in the right talent, and creating reliable data infrastructures are critical for sustainable growth in this interconnected landscape.”
Research Method:
Talker Research conducted an online survey with 1,000 U.S. C-suite executives and direct managers in cybersecurity and data center roles, alongside 1,000 employed Americans in tech. The survey was commissioned by Per Scholas and took place from February 26th to March 5th, 2025.
