Early Mover’s Advantage: Why Al Lerberg Chose Cybersecurity Recruiting Before It Exploded

Talent Hunters

In 2023, cybersecurity is a $202 billion industry with hundreds of thousands of jobs. It’s hard to imagine that it was once a fledgling sector, but back in 2009 when Al Lerberg chose it, that’s exactly what it was.

“Up and coming” was how cybersecurity was once described. Today, it’s a dominant, mainstream niche that shows no signs of slowing down, especially when it comes to jobs. Al saw that early, and benefitted from getting ahead of a massive wave.

What’s it like recruiting in the world of high-security clearances and 3-letter government agencies? How do hockey and playing guitar influence how Al does his job? In this episode, the founder of Cyber Security Recruiters shares how he took a chance on an industry before it exploded, and the intricacies of recruiting for the government.

Guest Bio

Al Lerberg founded MRI of Elk River in the fall of 2009 after MRI boot camp in Cleveland Ohio. Originally started as an executive recruiting firm focused on the pharmaceutical industry, it quickly evolved into an IT recruiting firm with a strong focus on Cyber Security. Prior to starting Cyber Security Recruiters, Al Lerberg had been a SSgt in the North Dakota Air National Guard as well as a top producer at Aureus Medical (a contract staffing firm) based in Omaha, NE. He also worked in the telecom/Internet industry for McLeod USA, as well as a Pharmaceutical rep for Sepracor in Minneapolis, MN. Since starting Cyber Security Recruiters he has been awarded a $12 million dollar government prime contract as well as a Lifetime Cumulative Cash In Award and Top Interim Staffing Awards for the years 2021 and 2022. Head to https://cybersecurityrecruiters.com/ for more information.

Meet the Host

Vince Holt is the founder and CEO of Management Recruiters of Mercer Island. With 35+ years industry experience, he is the only MRINetwork team member to win CSAM of the Year, Person of the Year and Lifetime Achievement Awards. In addition to spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren, Vince has raced motorcycles for over 50 years, winning 5 National Championships.