As a VET I got into cyber…way before it was called Cyber and was still called Information Assurance. I am going to date myself, but a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away when the earth was still cooling, dial-up was how we got to the internet and cordless phones were gaining popularity. Information Assurance was a collateral duty for those of us who either volunteered or were “voluntold” while serving in the Air Force.
My first assignment was as a Liaison to the Government of Japan at a Japanese Air Base where I was part of a small team responsible for Air Defense activities and coordination with the 7th Fleet Battle Group, and my first collateral duty was the Information Assurance Officer for our squadron. The exposure to the advanced technology while living in Japan fueled my desire to learn as much about the military technology we were using and how to secure it.
My mentors in the military provided fantastic opportunities for me to provide input into designs and testing of major technology platforms still used today by the military and encouraged me to follow my passion for technology. This was an interesting time for technology, and the military was entering into an exciting time as they worked to modernize systems and platforms. I am forever grateful to the mentors who encouraged me, provided unique opportunities and exposures that opened so many doors after I left the military.
The work experience that helped me transition to a career in cyber…was the Air Force provided educational and certification resources, that were the foundational blocks needed to get my first civilian job as a Supervisor with the Department of Energy (DOE) in New Mexico. The DOE provided endless opportunities for technical training, a lot of certifications and the opportunity to lead technical teams and lead computer security activities across the national lab ecosystem. All these components came together, which propelled me to a unique opportunity working in the United Kingdom and helped me transition to a career in cyber.
The soft skills that set me up for success were…listening to what is not being said by a customer or employee and reading the room to make sure your delivery is being well received, lead with your heart and have compassion, build trust and publicly recognize the hard work of your teammates – a thank you note goes a long way!
My top tip to those interested in transitioning to a career in cybersecurity is…find yourself a solid mentor who can give you the time and resources you need to help you achieve your goals! Surround yourself with people who cheer for you when you win and pick you up when you fall – this is important for your mental health and growth in the cyber industry.
I would tell my younger self…to enjoy the ride, take time to enjoy the work and people and don’t be so focused on the climb, there’s plenty of time for that. Sometimes you only get that experience once, so enjoy it and most of all allow yourself time to rest because self-care isn’t selfish! The cyber industry is hard, and sometimes we are harder on ourselves, so be good to yourself!