"Seize every opportunity that comes your way."
As a VET, I got into cyber … before it was known as cyber. I entered the computer network operations field while completing my computer science degree. Around that time, Presidential Decision Directive (PDD) 63 was issued, creating several network defense organizations to protect government infrastructure, including the Army’s Pacific Regional Computer Emergency Response Team. Being a newly established organization, they were assembling their initial team and sought computer scientists, mathematicians, and engineers with security clearance. Having served in the Army with a Secret-level clearance, holding an associate’s degree in mathematics, and nearing completion of my bachelor’s in computer science, I was a strong candidate and was hired (thanks to Ron Lee!).
For me, a positive cyber mindset…is being proactive and prioritizing security to build resilience, ensuring that systems are protected and capable of sustaining the organization’s mission during a cyber-attack, and ensuring that the organization’s mission is not compromised.
The time I served in the Army helped me transition to a career in cyber…by instilling discipline, adaptability, and a commitment to national defense. The military experience also gave me valuable technical skills, exposure to classified information, and a strong understanding of security protocols.
My top tip to those interested in transitioning to a career in cybersecurity is…to be proactive. Use online self-learning resources, prepare yourself to qualify for industry certifications, start building your professional cyber network, and find a mentor.
I would tell my younger self…to take risks, seek answers, and remain curious. Surround yourself with individuals who inspire you to strive for excellence and remember that your only limitations are those you impose upon yourself.
The quote I live by…is to seize every opportunity that comes my way. When I joined the Army, my goal was to travel and see the world. My first duty station was in South Korea, and I made the most of it by exploring the country whenever I could. Later, I was assigned to Germany on a continuous overseas assignment, which allowed me to experience and explore Europe. This mindset also extends to self-improvement. If my company offers training or financial support for education, I take full advantage of it.
The biggest influence in my life is…my mom. As a single mother raising three children, she faced countless challenges. She juggled multiple jobs, always putting our needs first, even if it meant not having a bedroom of her own and sleeping on the couch so we kids could have the two bedrooms in our tiny apartment. She showed us that while life may be challenging, our greatest strength lies in our own hard work and independence. Her lessons instilled in us the belief that we can overcome any obstacle through our own perseverance and self-reliance. Her dedication and resilience have been a constant source of inspiration for me. The unwavering strength she demonstrated is the foundation of who I am today.
My recommended read…is Cliff Stoll’s The Cuckoo’s Egg. It’s a seminal book that provides profound insights into cybersecurity’s origins and the urgent need for strong security measures. Additionally, I recommend exploring the Cybersecurity Canon, founded by Rick Howard. This collection, curated by leading industry experts, features essential books that anyone in the field should consider reading.
What I thought I wanted to be when I grew up…was something connected to math. I’ve always excelled in math and appreciated its logical nature. After taking every math course available in college and realizing that I was essentially on the path to a computer science degree, I decided to switch my major to computer science. It seemed to offer broader career opportunities.
A favorite place of mine is…my grandmother’s kitchen table, where we sit together with a glass of wine and reflect on our shared journey. She grew up in the aftermath of the Great Depression in a small two-bedroom house as the eldest of twelve, leaving home at sixteen to build her own family. These moments of reminiscing with her and celebrating her remarkable journey and our progress hold profound meaning for me. We both cherish where we are in life and the experiences that have shaped us. We just celebrated her 90th birthday.
My inspiration…is, hands down, my two sons. From day one, they have inspired me to be the best possible mother and role model for them. They both enlisted in the Army at 17, driven by their own ambition and sense of purpose, not out of necessity. My oldest son, who served in intelligence, dedicated five years to his service, earning a bachelor’s degree in computer science along the way. He achieved the remarkable feat of buying a home, securing a stellar job, and is now set to pursue a master’s degree – all before turning 24. My youngest, serving in the infantry, is stationed in Alaska as a sniper, facing harsh Arctic conditions that challenge even the toughest. His dedication and resilience, particularly as he prepares to transition from the Army to school this fall, are nothing short of awe-inspiring. Their relentless commitment and sacrifices fuel my drive for personal excellence. They inspire me to surpass my own limits and continually strive to be the best role model I can be, reflecting their strength and determination in my own life.
Something few people know about me is…that at 15, I was in the original Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle movie. Parts of the movie were filmed in Wilmington, NC, where I am from. I was hired to be one of the teenagers walking around the Foot Clan’s lair. If you are familiar with the movie, it’s the place with the skateboard ramp and video game machines.
What I most want to be remembered for is…my dedication to empowering others to achieve their fullest potential through mentorship, support, or creating opportunities. Ultimately, I hope my impact is measured by the strength and success of those I’ve had the privilege of supporting, guiding them toward their own remarkable achievements.