Despite progress in other professions, cybersecurity still lags in female representation due to a persistent lack of respect and inclusion. While many industries remain male-dominated, cybersecurity's gender disparity is particularly stark when compared to fields like law (53% female representation), accounting (46%), and medicine (37%). According to new research from ISC2, women make up just 24% of the cybersecurity workforce, which has remained relatively consistent for several years.
In the second part of our series, part 1 here, on Women in Cybersecurity, we continue to highlight the remarkable contributions of women who are making waves in this rapidly evolving field and can inspire other women who may want to consider Cybersecurity as a career path.
Nicole Eagan: Revolutionizing Autonomous Cyber Defense
Nicole Eagan, CEO of Darktrace, is a visionary leader in autonomous cyber defense. Under her guidance, Darktrace has emerged as a global leader in AI-powered threat detection and response. Eagan's innovative approach to cybersecurity has revolutionized how organizations defend against advanced cyber threats, setting new standards for resilience and agility in the digital age.
Tiffany Li: Shaping Cybersecurity Law and Policy
Tiffany Li, a privacy attorney and tech policy expert, is shaping the future of cybersecurity law and policy. With her expertise in cybersecurity law and digital rights, Li has collaborated with organizations such as the Wikimedia Foundation and the Yale Information Society Project. Her advocacy efforts focus on ensuring that legal frameworks keep pace with the rapid evolution of technology, safeguarding digital freedoms and rights.
Emily Heath: Driving Cybersecurity Strategy at United Airlines
Emily Heath serves as the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at United Airlines, where she leads the airline's cybersecurity strategy and ensures the protection of customer data and critical systems. With extensive experience in cybersecurity leadership roles, Heath is a driving force in safeguarding the aviation industry against cyber threats.
Michele Guel: Innovating Security Solutions at Cisco Systems
Michele Guel is Vice President of Information Security at Cisco Systems, where she oversees the development and implementation of innovative security solutions. With a background in engineering and cybersecurity, Guel is instrumental in driving Cisco's efforts to provide robust cybersecurity solutions for businesses worldwide.
Angela McKay: Advancing Cybersecurity Policy at Microsoft
Angela McKay is the Senior Director of Cybersecurity Policy and Strategy at Microsoft, where she leads initiatives to shape cybersecurity policy and advance global cybersecurity efforts. With a background in international relations and cybersecurity, McKay plays a pivotal role in advocating for policies that promote a safer and more secure digital environment.
These exceptional women, along with many others, are driving positive change in the cybersecurity industry through their expertise, leadership, and dedication. Their contributions inspire the next generation of female cybersecurity professionals and underscore the invaluable role that women play in shaping a more diverse, equitable, and secure cyber landscape.
As a woman in cybersecurity and President of Rekruitd, I'm dedicated to encouraging more women to join this fulfilling field. At Rekruitd, we specialize in cybersecurity and IT recruitment, easing hiring burdens and empowering the next generation of female cybersecurity professionals. Let's continue championing diversity and shaping a brighter future together.