CSCUK

From Ada Lovelace, the world’s first computer programmer, to Margaret Hamilton, who was instrumental in NASA’s moon landing, history is filled with women who have programmed giant leaps for mankind.

That’s why it’s a problem that, according to Cybersecurity Ventures, only 20% of the cyber security industry is female.

Take a look at the real life stories, insider tips and career advice from some of the amazing women working hard to change the perception of the cyber security industry.

Sophia McCall

“When I was younger, I hadn’t a clue you could invest in a career in cyber security – and now, to have the power to change that for the next generation, well that feels quite powerful.” Sophia McCall, Cyber Security Student of the Year 2020

Read Sophia's interview

Nitya Sri Adapala

“Don’t be swayed by stereotypes or feeling like you don’t belong. If you feel uncomfortable or scared, it’s a great sign you are stepping out of your comfort zone, which means that you are growing.” – Nitya Sri Adapala, student, Tiffin Girls School

Read Nitya's interview

Izzy Whistlecroft

“Things seem to be moving in the right direction, but I feel like more outreach is needed. It’s important to have role models and see women succeeding in cyber security.” – Izzy Whistlecroft, Security Consultant, NCC Group

Read Izzy's interview

Ellie Hurst

“Cyber security is like a rugby team – there are such a huge range of opportunities, there’s a place for everyone.” – Ellie Hurst, Head of Marcomms and Media, Advent IM

Read Ellie's interview

Melanie Oldham

Don’t be afraid to stand up and stand out. We need effective industry advocates, so encourage others to consider a career in cyber security and make sure they understand how they could have a positive effect on the world.” – Melanie Oldham, CEO of Bob’s Business

Read Melanie's interview

Mivy James

“There is a huge shortage of skills in the industry. So take a chance regardless of what you think your core strengths are – there will be a role for you.” — Mivy James, Head of Consulting at BAE Systems Applied Intelligence

Read Mivy's interview

Jane Frankland

“Over the last 20 years, I’ve seen cyber security practitioners and consultants having an increasingly vital role to play in society. Their job is to secure the world – its future.” — Jane Frankland, Founder of Cyber Security Capital and the IN Security Movement

Read Jane's interview

Lucy Caiger

“Don’t be overwhelmed. It’s not uncommon for people to enter the sector from a wide range of backgrounds and career paths. There’s a huge breadth of roles available.” — Lucy Caiger, Delivery Lead at Panaseer

Read Lucy's interview

Jade Wenban

“I wish I’d gone into the infosec industry sooner – people are friendly, every day you get to change someone’s life for the better, and I feel true achievement at the end of each week.” — Jade Wenban, Managing Director of the AntiSocial Engineer Limited

Read Jade's interview

Helena Bishop

“Find what truly inspires you and build a network of people who can help and support you to achieve your goals. And if you see an opportunity – be bold.” — Helena Bishop, Human Centred Design (UX) at BAE Systems Applied Intelligence

Read Helena's interview

Dr Leila Powell

“Surely we don’t want women’s voices to go unheard when shaping the future of our increasingly digital society? So, what are you waiting for? Get involved, get a voice, make a difference!” — Dr Leila Powell, Security Data Scientist at Panaseer

Read Leila's interview