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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 joined the Cobalt team in July 2024 as a Product Designer, so I'm relatively new to cybersecurity. My previous agency-based role provided me with some valuable experience in the medical industry, which prepared me well for this position. In a way, cybersecurity is similar to medicine - instead of diagnosing illnesses in people, we're diagnosing vulnerabilities in computers and systems!
What has been the greatest reward of your career? What do you love most about your job?
When it comes to design, the best part is knowing people will be directly interacting with everything you do. What I do is a big amalgamation of customer needs, business needs, and what’s possible.
What has been the greatest challenge you faced in your career?
Imposter syndrome has been a constant challenge in my career. Whenever I share an opinion, give a presentation, or even ask a simple question, a voice in my head whispers, “I’m a fraud, and everyone is about to find out.” But over time, I’ve realized that almost everyone experiences this—especially when stepping into something new or unknown. The key is to allow yourself an imposter moment, not an imposter life.
What impact has female mentorship had on your life? Was the impact in a personal or professional setting?
I’ve been fortunate to have incredible mentors and line managers—strong, knowledgeable women who have guided me throughout my career. One piece of advice from my first mentor has always stuck with me: “Ask for forgiveness, not permission.” This mindset gave me the confidence to take initiative and trust my instincts when I was breaking into the design industry. Even now, whenever that little imposter voice creeps in, I remind myself that growth comes from action, not waiting for validation.
What is your advice to young female professionals coming into the workforce or into cybersecurity?
Give yourself permission to be wrong, take a break when needed, and most importantly, ask for help. Growth comes from pushing through those moments, not being defined by them.
What’s your biggest inspiration or motivator when you are down?
I’m so lucky to live in one of the most beautiful countries in the world—Wales! 🏴 If I'm having a rough day, I just fire up the Nike Run Club app and hit my local trails. The guided runs are great for a boost when I'm feeling low on energy or motivation.
Learn More About Steph
What are your favorite hobbies?
I’m super into crocheting at the moment; it’s so cool to see something created from yarn! I also love reading, running, video games, mountain biking, and illustration.
Who are your favorite musical artists?
I’m very much a vibes kind of listener! Spotify reckons I like ‘Vampire’, ‘Doof-Doof’, and ‘Witchy’, whatever that means. At the moment, I’m on a Lady Gaga resurgence and loving it.
