CompTIA launches SecAI+ certification

IT training and certification provider CompTIA this week introduced CompTIA SecAI+, a new professional certification focused on securing AI systems and applying AI tools within cybersecurity environments. CompTIA SecAI+ addresses the “urgent need for skilled professionals who can both defend against and leverage AI technologies” in cybersecurity environments, according to CompTIA. “As AI expands into core business processes, the ability to secure AI systems, manage AI-related risk and support responsible AI governance has become a defining capability for modern cyber security job roles,” said Katie Hoenicke, chief product officer at CompTIA, in a statement. “We’ve created a comprehensive approach to validate the skills that security teams need to work in environments where AI systems and AI-enabled tools are present.” CompTIA SecAI+ is the first certification program in CompTIA’s Expansion Series, which is designed to complement existing certifications, and it builds on foundational CompTIA credentials such as Security+, CySA+ (cybersecurity analyst), and PenTest+. The expanded certification programs will give security professionals a way to demonstrate advanced AI security capabilities with their core job-role skills, according to CompTIA. According to Seth Robinson, vice president of industry research at CompTIA, the release of this type of program and certification addresses both market demand and a skills maturity gap that organizations are only beginning to close. “The AI skills that companies are looking for are typically built on top of very strong foundational skills for a job role,” Robinson says. “It’s really an extension of skills that you already have,” whether that’s networking, cybersecurity, or data specialization. Robinson also points out that as companies look to optimize headcount, security professionals with experience and knowledge across networking, infrastructure, and AI are becoming more important to high-tech hiring managers. “Having a well-rounded foundation of skills is never a bad thing, especially in an environment where companies are looking for people that can wear many hats,” Robinson says. The certification covers how to secure AI platforms and functionality, how to use AI to improve processes such as incident response, security analytics, threat intelligence, and penetration testing. It also focuses on how AI can automate compliance and risk management procedures under human guidance, according to CompTIA. “CompTIA SecAI+ addresses the cybersecurity-AI trifecta,” said Dr. James Stanger, chief technology evangelist at CompTIA, in a statement. “First, it focuses on the best practices, processes, systems, and tools to ensure that AI platforms and functionality are as secure as possible. Next, it illustrates how to improve and de-friction processes such as incident response, security analytics, threat intelligence, and penetration testing. Finally, it instructs on how, with the guidance of humans, AI can automate critical compliance and risk management procedures.” CompTIA SecAI+ will teach technology professionals how to: * Apply AI concepts to an organization’s cybersecurity posture. * Secure AI systems using advanced controls and safeguards. * Leverage AI technologies to automate workflows, accelerate incident response, and scale security operations. * Navigate global GRC frameworks to ensure compliant AI adoption. * Defend against AI-driven threats. * Integrate AI security into DevSecOps pipelines and enterprise security strategies. The SecAI+ exam runs 60 minutes with a maximum of 60 multiple-choice and performance-based questions. CompTIA recommends candidates have three to four years of experience in IT with more than two years of hands-on cybersecurity experience. It is also recommended that candidates have Security+, CYSA+, and PenTest+ or equivalent certifications before taking the exam. Candidates must achieve a score of 600 (on a scale of 100-900) to pass the exam.