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In celebration of Women's History Month, we're spotlighting the incredible women of Cobalt throughout March. Each feature will share their unique cybersecurity journeys, insights, and career lessons they have learned.
How long have you been working in cybersecurity? How did you get started in the field?
I worked in software testing for seven years before transitioning to cybersecurity eight years ago. I became bored with the repetitiveness of software testing and decided on a career change. When my husband asked about my passions and dreams, I mentioned hacking, although I didn't think it was an actual career. After researching, I discovered a security analyst position that was a perfect fit, offering cybersecurity training for individuals without prior experience in the field.
What has been the greatest reward of your career? What do you love most about your job?
As an individual contributor, my impact was limited to one customer at a time. In contrast, as a manager, I can influence multiple customers simultaneously through developing methodologies, refining customer interactions, and spearheading initiatives that elevate Cobalt to its full potential.
What has been the greatest challenge you faced in your career?
I sometimes miss being more technical and focusing on one problem at a time. I also found it challenging to learn to delegate after transitioning from a maker to a manager, although I do enjoy the benefits of being a manager.
What impact has female mentorship had on your life? Was the impact in a personal or professional setting?
I learned from my last mentor the importance of soft skills when dealing with leadership. The ability to create a good slide deck is valuable. If leadership doesn't understand the importance of your idea, it will never be implemented, so you have to put it in words they understand.
What is your advice to young female professionals coming into the workforce or into cybersecurity?
Don't let it intimidate you when you find yourself the only woman in the room. You've worked just as hard as anyone else to be there—maybe even harder—and you absolutely deserve to be there.
Learn More About Gisela
What are your favorite hobbies?
I love mountain biking and spending time outdoors!
