I got into cyber through…a rotational program focused on technical leadership development. Originally having experience in Mechanical Engineering, I wanted to widen my lens by getting into a different role and in a different field. I joined as a project manager on a team that does cyber solution architecting and research. I enjoyed it so much that I decided to stay on the team.

For me, a positive cyber mindset is…a desire to continually learn. In an evolving cyber landscape it is imperative to be willing to learn what is new and position it with what you already know to inform the next step.

Can you share an impactful experience during your career pivot?…I remember sitting in my first UWIC conference where my manager was on a panel. During her response to a question I remember clearly hearing, “an event that my colleague Desiree Driver helped lead…”. My eyes were as wide as can be! I couldn’t believe my name was mentioned, let alone I was being called a colleague. That sponsorship-in-action encouraged me and showed me doors of opportunities that I didn’t know were unlocked.

My advice: advocate for yourself and seek mentorship/sponsorship. Your resume says one thing, your job description says another. The truth is that your story goes beyond them both. Find those who will look beyond the limitations of a piece of paper to help champion the story that needs to be heard.

The skills that set me up for success were…relatability and listening – breaking down the barriers of always needing to “perform” and approaching with a collaborative mindset. Some of my most notable past experiences are in retail and in substitute teaching, both of which I loved. People may not always remember what you say but they will remember how you made them feel. Using my skills to focus on being authentic while stating things clearly in a way that resonates with the audience has helped me to create/give presentations and work together with others to accomplish big things.

What I most want to be remembered for is…a people first mindset. I agree that life is about work-life Jenga not work-life balance. Aside from the task at hand, everyone is trying to strategically move the pieces in their life to make the best of each move as best they can. I make space for those whose tower is strong, and those who need some support in keeping theirs up. The people who do the work are equally important, if not more, than the work itself.