Thoma Bravo and H.I.G. Capital are set to acquire the certification and training arm of the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA), a globally respected organization that equips IT professionals with vital skills. This acquisition highlights the increasing value placed on specialized skill-based training as businesses face unprecedented technological evolution, particularly in fields such as cloud computing, cybersecurity, networking, and technical support.
As a longstanding nonprofit association and one of the largest providers of vendor-neutral credentials, CompTIA has been an education pillar in the technology sector. CompTIA has been at the forefront of IT education and training, offering a broad range of programs that cater to critical areas within the tech industry. It provides education and training across key IT domains, including cloud computing, cybersecurity, networking, and technical support.
Beyond certifications, CompTIA’s ecosystem encompasses a global partner network involving academic institutions, job training centers, non-profits, and other entities dedicated to workforce readiness. This structure has not only supported individual career growth but has also helped organizations cultivate the skilled workforce required to meet industry demands.
This acquisition by Thoma Bravo and H.I.G. Capital will transition CompTIA’s certification arm from its nonprofit roots to a for-profit model. While the certification business will operate independently, CompTIA’s 501(c)(6) membership-based organization will continue serving as a nonprofit entity, maintaining its advocacy and support role for the IT industry. Financial details of the acquisition were not disclosed.
Training on Cloud, Cybersecurity, Networking
With cloud computing revolutionizing the way businesses operate, CompTIA’s training and certification programs have provided companies with the expertise to navigate cloud architecture and management. From foundational skills to advanced cloud technologies, these programs support businesses transitioning to the cloud by ensuring they have access to well-qualified professionals who can manage, secure, and optimize cloud-based systems.
Cybersecurity, another core area of CompTIA’s educational offerings, has emerged as one of the most in-demand fields globally, driven by a surge in cyber threats and data breaches. CompTIA’s cybersecurity certifications cover a range of critical skills, from basic security practices to advanced threat detection, incident response, and risk management. This education enables IT professionals to keep pace with sophisticated cyber threats, helping businesses protect their data and infrastructure. CompTIA's cybersecurity programs are not just theoretical; they emphasize hands-on training that prepares professionals to handle real-world cyber challenges, making them valuable assets in any organization’s security posture.
In networking, a foundational pillar of IT infrastructure, CompTIA has developed a comprehensive suite of training programs that cover everything from configuring local networks to implementing complex enterprise-level systems. Networking remains essential as businesses grow their digital footprint and seek reliable connectivity across devices, offices, and even remote environments. CompTIA’s certifications validate the skills required for networking roles, ensuring that certified professionals can install, manage, and troubleshoot networks effectively. This is increasingly vital as companies invest in advanced networking technologies to support hybrid and remote work setups, as well as to handle the rapid growth of Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
Technical support, often seen as the backbone of IT operations, is another area where CompTIA provides critical training. Through certifications focused on technical troubleshooting, customer support, and IT maintenance, CompTIA prepares professionals to address and resolve technical issues that businesses face daily. The need for skilled technical support has intensified with the rise of digital transformation across industries, as companies depend on IT systems to maintain seamless operations. CompTIA’s technical support certifications not only cover problem-solving skills but also emphasize customer service, preparing support specialists to deliver effective solutions while enhancing user experience.
Focus on Skill-based, Vendor-Neutral Certifications
By acquiring CompTIA’s certification and training division, Thoma Bravo and H.I.G. Capital aim to further scale these training programs. CompTIA’s focus on skill-based, vendor-neutral certifications would position it uniquely within the IT education landscape, catering to organizations that prioritize flexibility and adaptability in hiring. With backing from two prominent private equity firms, CompTIA can expand its curriculum and reach, ensuring it continues to address emerging needs in cloud computing, cybersecurity, networking, and technical support.
CompTIA would be able to use the acquisition to expand its impact in the rapidly expanding and dynamic global IT environment by using new resources. It is anticipated that the need for qualified IT workers will grow as cloud services proliferate, cybersecurity risks change, and network complexity rises.
