Rumos: "Training in Cybersecurity and Information Security is Essential"

With more than three decades of experience, Rumos aims to "continue fostering a global learning community that promotes knowledge sharing, networking, and collaboration among IT professionals." Jorge Lopes shared with Security Magazine that the company is heavily investing in enhancing its facilities and expanding its team.

Security Magazine: Can you tell us a bit about Rumos’ history? When and how was it founded, and what were the key milestones throughout the years?

Jorge Lopes: Rumos was established in 1992, during a time when there was a growing need to bridge the gap between academia and the business world. From the start, Rumos identified and filled a niche in the Portuguese market, focusing specifically on IT training. This specialization allowed us to grow steadily and sustainably.

One of the pivotal milestones in our journey was forging international partnerships, which elevated the quality of our courses and earned us recognition beyond Portugal. Over the years, Rumos has continuously adapted to market demands by integrating new technologies and teaching methodologies, solidifying our position as a benchmark in the sector.

Our unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and a long-term strategic vision has been the cornerstone of our sustained growth. Today, we are the go-to choice for professionals seeking specialization and companies requiring high-quality training solutions.

How has Rumos grown in recent years?

Our growth has been incredibly positive, reflecting our commitment to innovation and excellence. We adapted quickly to market changes, particularly with the transition to remote and hybrid training models. This allowed us to maintain the same high-quality training, even during challenging times.

Being recognized as the "Number 1 Brand in the Professionals’ Choice Awards 2024" by ConsumerChoice – Consumer Satisfaction Assessment Center is a testament to our dedication to addressing our clients' needs with effective training solutions.

We’ve also strengthened our international partnerships, enabling us to offer globally recognized certifications and keep our programs aligned with the latest technological trends. This growth isn’t just about numbers—it’s also about quality, as evidenced by the satisfaction of our trainees and the measurable impact on their careers and organizations.

What investments has Rumos made to enhance the quality and diversity of its courses?

We’ve invested significantly in modernizing our training infrastructure and diversifying our course offerings. Our training rooms are now equipped with cutting-edge technology, such as high-definition cameras, wide-range microphones, and advanced sound systems, ensuring that remote classes are as interactive and engaging as in-person sessions.

We are also focused on developing "blended by design" content, which combines self-paced learning for theoretical components with live sessions that emphasize practical skills. This approach provides a more flexible and effective learning experience, meeting the needs of today’s professionals who seek a balance between personal and professional life.

Additionally, we continually invest in the training and development of our trainers, ensuring they are equipped with the latest pedagogical techniques and educational tools. These efforts underscore our commitment to excellence and our ability to prepare trainees for the demands of the modern job market.

Are there plans to expand or introduce new training programs?

Yes, absolutely. We continue to build strategic partnerships with leading global technology providers to offer internationally recognized certifications. We also innovate by introducing courses aligned with emerging technological trends and market needs.

For example, we recently expanded our portfolio with partnerships with CertNexus and ISC2, adding courses in Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity. We aim to create a global learning community that fosters collaboration, knowledge sharing, and networking among IT professionals.

Do you provide in-person training for companies across Portugal? What other modalities do you offer?

Yes, Rumos tailors training to meet the unique needs of each organization. We provide in-person training either at the client’s premises or at chosen locations, ensuring maximum convenience and efficiency.

In addition to face-to-face sessions, we offer remote and hybrid training options. These modalities combine live sessions via digital platforms with on-site components, offering a versatile solution that accommodates various corporate dynamics. Supported by advanced learning technologies, these options deliver an interactive and immersive experience, closely replicating the benefits of in-person training.

Across all modalities, our goal is to deliver accessible, flexible training that aligns with the schedules and demands of each organization and its employees.

What does Rumos offer in terms of cybersecurity and information security training

Rumos provides a comprehensive range of courses in cybersecurity, information security, and privacy, catering to all proficiency levels, from beginners to advanced professionals.

We have strategic partnerships with global leaders like Check Point and ISC2, as well as technology giants such as Microsoft, AWS, CompTIA, and Cisco, whose courses integrate cybersecurity components to ensure the protection of their technologies. These collaborations enable us to deliver internationally recognized certifications, equipping trainees with up-to-date skills aligned with industry standards and best practices.

Additionally, Rumos develops proprietary courses tailored to professionals seeking to deepen their expertise or begin their journey in cybersecurity.

One standout program is our Cybersecurity Academy, an intensive 350-hour course designed to impart advanced, hands-on skills, preparing participants to earn certifications and address real-world IT security challenges.

Do you believe training in these areas can help companies mitigate internal risks?

Absolutely. Training in cybersecurity and information security is critical for companies aiming to effectively mitigate internal risks. By equipping professionals with up-to-date knowledge and best practices, these courses empower employees not only to better understand cyber threats but also to develop the skills necessary to implement robust security measures. This encompasses everything from identifying and preventing attacks to responding to and recovering from incidents, covering all critical aspects of IT infrastructure protection and safeguarding sensitive company data.

Moreover, fostering a culture of security within the organization is a key outcome of such training. It raises collective awareness about the importance of information security, which is vital for preventing security breaches and maintaining trust—both internally and externally.

What investments are planned for the short to medium term in terms of expanding your facilities, new offices, and team development?

In the short to medium term, we are making significant investments to enhance our facilities and expand our team. For instance, our training center in Porto is undergoing upgrades to provide an even more modern and efficient learning environment, fully equipped with the latest educational technologies.

Simultaneously, we are strengthening our team by focusing on continuous training for current staff—particularly in areas like artificial intelligence—while also onboarding new team members who are dedicated to driving innovation.

This expansion and upskilling effort aim to enrich and elevate the learning experience for our trainees. Bolstering our innovation team is a central pillar of our strategy to keep Rumos at the forefront of the tech education sector. By leading in quality and relevance, we strive to contribute meaningfully to the success of both individuals and organizations.

Article published in Security Magazine on August 6, 2024. Click here to access the original source.