Nuggets of Powerful Information from Women in Security Panel Discussion
- By Ginger Hill
- Oct 02, 2014
For the first time, I was able to attend a women-in-the-industry-type of event at ASIS this year, a panel discussion with members of Women in Security and (ISC)2, a first combo session of this type for ASIS. An experience full of firsts, I figured there would no bra burnings in protest, but, I honestly didn't know what to expect. I felt like I was in for a treat, though.
The panel consisted of:
- Richard Nealon, (ISC)2 Board Member;
- Diana-Lynn Contesti, (ISC)2 Board Member;
- Dave Tyson, CPP, Senior Director, Global Information Security, Business Process, and Technology, SC Johnson & Son, Inc. and 2015 President, ASIS International;
- Shirley Pierini, CPP, PCI, Director Consulting, SMGI; and 2004 President, ASIS International;
- Angela Tobon, Assistant Special Agent in Charge, National Security Branch of the Atlanta Division, FBI; and
- Marene Allison, VP and Chief Information Security Officer, Johnson & Johnson.
Gail Essen, CPP, PSP, Enterprise Security, Siemens, moderated the interactive discussion.
The following are nuggets of powerful information that I learned from the dynamic industry leaders regarding the security industry:
- 97% - The percentage of the security industry who is male.
- 3% - The percentage of the security industry who is female.
Females make up 51% of the population.
- Women in Security is about bringing women together to discuss their strengths and help them with their weaknesses.
- A leader needs a blend and balance of certain skills to progress in his/her career.
- It's beneficial to have every individual in an organization set goals and strive to exceed them that are specific to their function in the organization.
- Don't be afraid to take opportunities that present themselves.
- Keeping looking for opportunities.
- Don't be put down by what people think you are or think they know about you.
As I listened to the panelists speak their words of wisdom, I felt extremely connected to the industry that I represent: security. At the end of the day, male or female, it really doesn't matter. What matters is keeping people and assets safe and secure in a world filled with chaotic destruction.
About the Author
Ginger Hill is Group Social Media Manager.