Scaling a cybersecurity team through continuous learning with OffSec

As demand for cybersecurity services grew, EPAM Systems rapidly expanded its offensive security team from 4 to 70 members in just 12 months. This growth required not only hiring new talent but also continuously upskilling existing staff.

Maintaining a strong team meant ongoing cross-training to broaden individual skill sets. Designing an effective and scalable cross-training program was a key challenge.

Traditional training methods struggled to keep up with the evolving threat landscape. Classroom sessions and static materials were not enough to prepare the team for sophisticated cyber threats.

At the same time, EPAM’s clients increasingly expected team members to hold industry-recognized certifications. These credentials were essential to demonstrate competence and expertise in addressing complex security challenges.

To address rapid team growth and the need for continuous learning, EPAM Systems partnered with OffSec, a leading provider of hands-on cybersecurity training.

Unlimited access

A Learn Enterprise subscription gave the team full access to the OffSec Learning Library and real-world simulations in the OffSec Cyber Range. This approach kept team members up to date with evolving threats and allowed flexible, on-demand learning.

Comprehensive, hands-on training

OffSec’s training emphasizes practical exercises, simulations, and real-world scenarios, ensuring staff gain experience and are prepared for complex challenges. For Andrei Dzesiatsik, Security Testing Manager at EPAM Systems, practical knowledge is essential, and the OffSec Certified Professional (OSCP) certification delivers exactly that.

Skill validation

To meet client expectations and demonstrate competence, EPAM focused on industry-recognized certifications. These credentials validate expertise and give clients confidence in the team’s capabilities.

Training management support

EPAM managers could monitor progress, track success rates, and generate metrics to identify gaps and optimize learning. OffSec’s team offered guidance and technical assistance to ensure a smooth training experience for all members.

With OffSec Learn Enterprise, EPAM scaled their offensive security team from 4 to 70 members while maintaining high-quality cybersecurity services. Rapid onboarding and continuous upskilling ensured the team kept pace with the organization’s growth.

Training for every level

Fundamental-level content, including defensive skills through SOC training and web application modules, allowed team members to improve across all areas of cybersecurity. Engineers looking to transition into security roles could also upskill effectively through the platform.

Simplified training management

The Learn Enterprise subscription simplified training management for managers like Vitali and Andrei. Through a corporate panel, they could assign seats, track individual and team performance, and use metrics to target improvements.

Clear career development framework

OffSec’s structured learning paths and certification process provided a roadmap for growth. This motivated team members and helped Cisco identify and nurture talent internally.

Streamlined budget planning

The subscription also streamlined budget planning. EPAM could forecast training costs for the year without worrying about purchasing multiple standalone courses, making planning predictable and efficient.

By addressing rapid team growth, an evolving threat landscape, client demands for recognized certifications, and the need for ongoing cross-training, EPAM Systems showed the value of investing in OffSec Learn Enterprise.