Exclusive Networks North America Announces the First Recipient of the “Fortinet-Exclusive Networks Cybersecurity Scholarship”

Annual Scholarship Will Provide Financial Assistance and Executive Mentorship from Fortinet and Exclusive Networks to Foster a Stronger, More Resilient Cybersecurity Workforce

September 26, 2023 — Exclusive Networks North America, a globally trusted cybersecurity specialist for digital infrastructure, in collaboration with Fortinet, the global cybersecurity leader driving the convergence of networking and security, awarded Gavin Brazelton from Napa, California, the first annual “Fortinet-Exclusive Networks Cybersecurity Scholarship.” This award was established to tackle the ever-growing cybersecurity skills gap by supporting individuals who aspire to transition their careers to cybersecurity and display a commitment to the industry. Exclusive Networks and Fortinet presented the scholarship during the PGA TOUR’s Fortinet Championship that took place at the renowned Silverado Resort in Napa.

Addressing the Cyber Skills Gap with the Fortinet-Exclusive Networks Scholarship

An (ISC)2 study estimates that 3.4 million more cybersecurity professionals are needed to meet the demand for skilled practitioners. To help close the industry’s skills gap, Exclusive Networks and Fortinet will award the annual scholarship, valued up to $50,000, and provide access to mentorship from various cybersecurity professionals, covering diverse areas such as technical expertise, executive guidance, and career placement.

Silverado Resort’s HR and general manager served as the chair of the scholarship’s application and submission process with a selection committee that included members from diverse backgrounds spanning technical, professional, management, and educational domains.

Advancing Cybersecurity Skillsets

This year’s deserving recipient, Gavin Brazelton, Operations System Analyst at Silverado Resort, is a testament to career evolution and personal dedication. Joining the Silverado Resort in 2020, Gavin transitioned from a role in food and beverage to a vital member of the IT department within just two years. Starting with no prior knowledge in the field, Gavin self-taught and immersed himself in IT, rapidly evolving from a novice to a valued member of the Silverado Resort’s technology team.

“I grew up among the Napa vineyards and wineries, but I often felt like an outsider among my peers. [They] seemed to have everything figured out. [Then] I was given the opportunity to pivot into an IT role at the Silverado Resort. In my current role, I see the importance of sound IT and cybersecurity every day, and I’m excited by the limitless opportunities that this new part of my life will bring me,” shares Gavin.

Award Ceremony Details

The scholarship was awarded by Brian Vincik, SVP Americas at Exclusive Networks and Jim Overbeck, SVP at Fortinet on Sunday, September 17, during the Fortinet Championship Tournament.

Brian Vincik, speaking on behalf of Exclusive Networks, comments: “This initiative is a passion project, aiming to fill the staggering openings in the cybersecurity sector worldwide. By investing in such scholarships and partnering with esteemed institutions, we’re reinforcing our commitment to addressing the cybersecurity skills shortage. The Fortinet-Exclusive Networks Cybersecurity Scholarship is a testament to our dedication to shaping the future cybersecurity experts of tomorrow.”

John Maddison, CMO and EVP of Product Strategy at Fortinet, adds “Gavin’s journey serves as a compelling testament to the various career pathways available within cybersecurity, even those that veer from the traditional routes. In line with our longstanding dedication to narrowing the cybersecurity skills gap, Fortinet is pleased to collaborate with Exclusive Networks to inaugurate this annual scholarship. Our aim is to extend opportunities and vital resources that not only empower but also inspire a broader influx of talent into the cybersecurity arena.”

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About Exclusive Networks

Exclusive Networks (EXN) is a global cybersecurity specialist that provides partners and end-customers with a wide range of services and product portfolios via proven routes to market. With offices in over 45 countries and the ability to serve customers in over 170 countries, we combine a local perspective with the scale and delivery of a single global organization.

Our best-in-class vendor portfolio is carefully curated with all leading industry players. Our services range from managed security to specialist technical accreditation and training and capitalize on rapidly evolving technologies and changing business models.

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