See It To Be It Spotlight

I got into cyber…while working at the National Security Agency, where I worked on both the intelligence and the defensive (cyber) missions for over 30 years.

For me, a positive cyber mindset is…curious, collaborative, probing, innovative, hopeful but realistic.

The work experience that helped me transition to a career in cyber was…two-fold. First, a tour in the defensive information operations organization at NSA whet my appetite for the potential for bad guys to get into networks and the importance of defending.

Then, a tour on the National Security Council at the White House sealed the deal for me. This is where I had the opportunity to work on cyber policies and initiatives for President Clinton and President George W. Bush. That is where I began to see the importance of cyber in the future (back then, we were chasing the I Love You virus – quite funny in retrospect, but that’s where we were!).

What I thought I wanted to be when I grew up…I thought I wanted to be a high school science teacher when I grew up. I never did that, but later in my career I began to teach cybersecurity, and ten years later I’m still doing so. I’m passionate about contributing to developing a cadre of cybersecurity professionals who will continue to reach back and teach others.

A favorite place of mine is…anywhere there is water (preferably the ocean) – to look at, enjoy the peace of, and marvel at the majesty of God’s creations.

What I most want to be remembered for is…being a strong, passionate, and capable leader who is laser focused on protecting and defending the things in this world that matter most.

Are you ready to take the next step in your cybersecurity journey?

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