Celebrating Tammy Klotz: A Trailblazer in Cybersecurity
SC Media has honored Tammy Klotz as one of the four Women in IT Security honorees for 2024 in the "Cyber Veterans" category. As the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at Trinseo, Klotz has dedicated her career to driving transformative change in cybersecurity while championing cultural shifts that empower individuals, particularly women, to thrive in this dynamic field. Her recognition is a testament to her unwavering commitment to fostering talent, mentoring emerging leaders, and creating inclusive environments where critical skills are prioritized.
A Journey Through IT and Cybersecurity
With over 30 years of experience in IT and a decade in cybersecurity leadership, Klotz’s journey is both inspiring and instructive. Initially aspiring to be a math teacher, she found her way into corporate America, where she climbed the ranks in technology. A pivotal moment in her career came when she transitioned into internal audit, which laid the groundwork for her eventual move into cybersecurity. In 2015, when Air Products spun off a new company, Klotz was appointed as a CISO, despite lacking a formal security background. Her strong relationships, business acumen, and solid audit foundation earned her the confidence of her CIO, allowing her to carve a niche in cybersecurity.
Impactful Initiatives in Cybersecurity
Klotz’s leadership is marked by innovative initiatives that have made significant impacts within organizations. One of her standout initiatives focuses on education and awareness. Rather than rushing to implement technological solutions for security challenges, she emphasizes the importance of empowering employees to understand the risks they face. By connecting personal and professional security risks, Klotz fosters a culture of vigilance. She reframes the narrative around employees being the "weakest link" in cybersecurity, instead positioning them as the "strongest link." This shift in perspective has been instrumental in creating a security-conscious culture that resonates throughout the organization.
Building High-Performing Teams
A hallmark of Klotz’s leadership style is her ability to build high-performing teams. She challenges the traditional notion of "soft skills," preferring to refer to them as "critical skills." These skills are essential for recognizing and valuing employees as individuals. Klotz’s approach is guided by the TIPPAC principles: Transparency, Togetherness, Inclusion, Presence, Participation, and Consistency. By fostering trust and collaboration, she creates an environment where employees feel empowered to share ideas and challenge the status quo. One of her innovative practices includes weekly "Friday Fun" sessions, which encourage non-work-related conversations and help strengthen team relationships.
Empowering Women in Cybersecurity
As a recognized leader in the cybersecurity field, Klotz is acutely aware of the barriers women face in advancing their careers. She encourages women to focus on the value they bring rather than discrediting themselves for lacking certain qualifications. Her advice is to step out of comfort zones and apply for positions even if they don’t meet every requirement. Confidence in one’s capabilities is crucial, and Klotz emphasizes the importance of convincing hiring managers of one’s potential during interviews.
For women aspiring to senior roles in cybersecurity, Klotz offers practical advice on mentorship. She encourages mentees to define their boundaries—what they are willing to compromise on and what they won’t. Writing these boundaries down makes them more tangible and helps navigate challenging situations. Additionally, she stresses the importance of developing a personal “board of directors,” a trusted group of mentors and leaders who provide both positive and critical feedback. This support system is invaluable for career growth and navigating the complexities of the cybersecurity landscape.
Conclusion
Tammy Klotz’s recognition as a Women in IT Security honoree is not just a celebration of her professional achievements but also a reflection of her dedication to empowering others in the field. Her story exemplifies the power of connection, mentorship, and resilience in advancing cybersecurity. As she continues to drive transformative change at Trinseo and beyond, Klotz remains a beacon of inspiration for aspiring leaders, particularly women, in the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity.
To hear more about Tammy Klotz’s journey and insights, watch the full video interview here. For more information on the other honorees, visit SC Media’s Women in IT Security page here.