Breaking Barriers: Women in Cybersecurity at Black Hat
LAS VEGAS—In an industry where sexism is as pervasive as in any other, the cybersecurity field is no exception. At the recent Black Hat security conference, a panel discussion aimed to create a safe space for participants to explore gender-specific challenges in the workplace. This gathering was not only a cathartic experience for many but also a platform for actionable solutions to the issues women face in male-dominated fields. From dealing with imposter syndrome to managing expectations, the panelists shared invaluable insights for anyone navigating a career in cybersecurity.
Hacking the Status Quo: Insights from Leading Women
The panel, titled "Hacking the Status Quo: Tales from Leading Women in Cybersecurity," featured an impressive lineup of experts: Ashley Shen, a security engineer at Cisco; Natalie Silvanovich, a team lead at Google’s Project Zero; Valentina Palmiotti, head of X-Force offensive research at IBM; and Kymberlee Price, CEO of Zatik Security. Moderated by Vandana Verma, a member of the Black Hat USA review board, the discussion offered a wealth of advice for those seeking a fulfilling career in cybersecurity.
Embrace Change: There’s Always Time for a Career Shift
Many attendees, including those who have transitioned into cybersecurity from non-technical backgrounds, found common ground in their experiences. For instance, Valentina Palmiotti shared her journey from a different career path to cybersecurity, sparked by her fascination with hacking. After enrolling in a city-funded cyber boot camp and dedicating herself to self-study, she now leads her own research team at IBM. Her advice? Leverage online resources and reach out to professionals in your desired field to gain insights into potential career paths.
Kymberlee Price echoed this sentiment, recounting her own transition from public health to cybersecurity. She candidly discussed the challenges of early-career imposter syndrome, admitting that she often felt like her employers would regret hiring her. Yet, over the past two decades, she has actively sought roles that challenge her, fostering her curiosity and passion for the field.
Building a Support Network
The panelists emphasized the importance of community in combating workplace sexism. Kymberlee Price noted that while progress has been made, sexism still exists. She encouraged attendees to create or join communities where they can share experiences and seek support. In her own workplace, she has found a supportive environment, but she acknowledged that not everyone is as fortunate. Building a network of like-minded colleagues can provide essential support when facing challenges.
No One-Size-Fits-All Path to Success
The panelists also discussed the pressure to excel in their roles to be taken seriously. Ashley Shen, a self-taught security engineer, shared her experience of feeling the need to downplay her femininity to fit in with male colleagues. Over time, she realized the importance of being true to herself and inspiring other women to enter the cybersecurity workforce.
Natalie Silvanovich highlighted the unpredictable nature of career paths in cybersecurity. She encouraged newcomers to remain curious and adaptable, as new challenges will always arise. The key takeaway? You are qualified for your role, and your employers trust you to succeed.
Authenticity Over Conformity
Kymberlee Price shared her struggles with feeling the need to present a different version of herself at work. She advised against oversharing personal details that could lead to unearned judgments. Instead, she encouraged professionals to showcase their expertise through participation in conferences and meetups. Engaging in these platforms not only allows for networking but also presents opportunities for career advancement.
Ashley Shen, a seasoned presenter at Black Hat, emphasized the value of sharing knowledge at conferences. Her own career benefited from a presentation that led to an interview with Google, underscoring the importance of visibility in the field.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
The discussion at Black Hat served as a powerful reminder of the ongoing challenges women face in cybersecurity. However, it also highlighted the resilience and determination of those who are breaking barriers. By embracing change, building supportive networks, and remaining authentic, women can navigate the complexities of this dynamic field. As the cybersecurity landscape continues to evolve, the contributions of women will be essential in shaping its future.
In a world where the status quo is constantly being challenged, the voices of women in cybersecurity are not just important—they are vital.