Looking for work in security? Stop sending applications into the void. Most security jobs get filled through someone who knows someone, and the easiest place to become someone people know is a local meeting. These groups meet near you, most are free or cheap to attend, and every one of them is full of people who were once where you are.
Each link goes to that organization's own chapter list, which they keep current. We don't copy their data, so it can't go stale here.
ISSA (Information Systems Security Association)
Professional association with local chapters that typically hold regular meetings with a speaker. A broad mix of practitioners and managers.
ISACA
Audit, governance, risk and compliance. A good fit if you lean toward GRC, or toward certifications like CISA and CISM.
OWASP
Application security. Chapter meetings are free and open to anyone, and developers are very welcome.
DEF CON Groups
Local hacker meetups, usually named for the area code (DC plus the number). Hands-on, social, and informal.
WoSEC (Women of Security)
Chapters for women in security across North America, Europe and Asia, built around networking and mentorship. If there's no chapter near you, they'll help you start one.
WoSEC added thanks to Larci Robertson.
WiCyS (Women in CyberSecurity)
Professional affiliates organized by state or region, plus remote specialty affiliates.
ISC2
The organization behind the CISSP. Local chapters hold meetings and continuing-education events.
Cloud Security Alliance
Cloud security. Chapters around the world hold meetups and talks.
InfraGard
A partnership between the FBI and the private sector, focused on critical infrastructure. Membership requires an application and vetting, so plan ahead.
Everything else
Plenty of good local groups don't belong to any national organization. A search on Meetup for "cybersecurity" near you will turn up a few.
BSides are community-run security conferences held in cities all over the world. They're inexpensive or free, friendly to first-timers, and always need volunteers, which makes them one of the best first steps there is.
Event list shown from bsides.org/events. If it doesn't load, open it there.
Know a group that belongs here? Email joshua.marpet@valuechainrisk.org. Page by Joshua Marpet and Cairn Viktor.