As important as cyber security tools and technologies are to securing the global digital economy, engineers, and technicians, the so called "boots on the ground" are an essential and indispensable component of effective cyber defense. With a current shortage of 2.72M cyber security workers, new thinking will be required to close the talent gap.  IBM and Microsoft have launched ambitious initiatives to close the gap with both programs showing promise.  Of particular interest is Microsoft’s program to leverage Junior Colleges, those 2-year institutions of higher learning, across the county to train-up entry level cyber talent to close the employment gap.  By developing a “curricula in a box” and “training the trainers”, the Microsoft initiative leverages existing educational infrastructure to jump start the acceleration of cyber talent development. Combined with platforms like those offered by start-up SightGain (real-time training and skills benchmarking against “live” malware samples), we may finally be on a path to ensuring that cyber defenses are fully resourced…