Folks, 90%—let that sink in—90% of consumers are downright worried that cybersecurity’s future is on shaky ground unless we start preparing our kids, our students, for this line of work a lot earlier. This is a meat and potatoes issue that goes beyond partisan politics.

The data doesn’t lie. Across the pond and here at home, 62% of consumers are saying they’d probably have gone into cybersecurity themselves—or would have pushed their kids in that direction—if they’d just had a little bit more education about the field. We’re talking courses, clubs, and better access to STEM programs in schools. The message is crystal clear here: if you teach it, they will come.

So, what’s holding us back? The issue isn’t just filling millions of vacant cybersecurity jobs; it’s about adjusting our mindset on what qualifies someone for those jobs. It’s time to think outside the traditional 4-year degree box. The cybersecurity field needs to start looking at mentorship programs, apprenticeships, certifications—ways to get folks in the door who may not have gone the traditional college route.

Here are some more eye-openers from the report:

67% of people think you shouldn’t need a traditional 4-year degree to work in cybersecurity. Credentials like certifications or apprenticeships? They should be just fine.

Over half, 52%, say a more diverse educational approach would help address the talent shortage. That’s everything from STEM classes to cybersecurity training, introduced as early as middle school.

And speaking of early exposure, more than half—54%—feel that age 12 to 15 is the prime time to get kids interested in cybersecurity careers.

Bottom line: This isn’t just a cybersecurity issue, it’s a workforce issue, it’s an education issue, and yes, it’s a national security issue. We need to be more open to diverse talent, whether it’s in terms of educational background, ethnicity, or otherwise. The data suggests there’s a reservoir of untapped talent out there, folks who could contribute if given the chance.

Now the question is: are we smart enough to change our approach before it’s too late? Because make no mistake, the clock is ticking.