For International Women’s Day, cyber professionals offer insight

YARMOUTH, Maine – Cybersecurity represents the bleeding edge of electronic security and the fertile ground in which new technologies like artificial intelligence is grown, but there’s a growing resource that remains woefully untapped. 

A report titled “Women in Cybersecurity 2022” found that roughly only 25% of the global cybersecurity workforce consisted of women. 

For International Women’s Day Security Systems News spoke with several professionals to get their insight and perspective for women interested in cybersecurity. 

Melissa Romillo, director of marketing, Index Engines 

Romillo’s advice to women is to not be afraid to take risks. “Know that it’s OK to fail. Nobody wants to fail, and it doesn’t feel good, but if you’re not failing some of the time, you’re not trying enough to improve and innovate. I always remind myself that if I always do what I’ve always done, that I will always get, what I’ve always gotten. And predictability is great, but it is also stagnant.” 

Reut Roich, vice president, product, Cynomi 

Roich advises that women manifest their own success. “Women in cybersecurity don’t wait for opportunities – they create them. In a challenging era where everything is constantly changing, true strength lies in leading, listening, innovating, and persevering. I celebrate the women who push boundaries, lift others up, and drive change in a way that shapes the digital future. It’s our time to create and lead the impact on women shaping the future.”  

Gabi Baldwin, digital marketing specialist, Index Engines 

Baldwin wants women to embrace the culture and the people of their chosen field. “If you’re anything like me, you might feel intimidated about entering the tech industry, knowing it’s male-dominated and that technology can seem confusing or overwhelming. But take the leap. There are incredible people—both men and women—who make this industry an amazing place to be.” 

For more inspiring words from leading women in the security industry check out our most recent Women in Security feature with JCI Security Products’ Emma Barkley.