In the age of the internet and interconnected devices, our lives are increasingly dependent on online activities like banking, shopping, and socializing. We save personal information including photos, videos and documents on our computers and in the cloud. With more aspects of our lives shifting online, the risk of cybercrime increases exponentially. In this digital era, heroes without capes sit behind computer screens to tackle complex modern-day problems, creating a secure and peaceful environment for everyone.

In today’s spotlight, we are going to talk about Akanksha Pathak. With over a decade of experience under her belt, she has risen through the ranks to become one of the most respected and accomplished cybersecurity professionals in the field. Her journey from a small town in India to a cybersecurity expert in the United States is truly inspiring. 

Akanksha started her career in India and slowly progressed into the cybersecurity field. She moved to the United States and joined EY, where she helped many clients improve their security posture. Later, she joined the global payments technology company Visa, where she has been doing great work securing their systems and networks. Her exceptional performance has led to her being invited to judge various international competitions, such as the Globee and Stevie Awards, where she evaluates products related to cybersecurity and information technology, drawing on her knowledge and experience in both technology and security domains. 

Akanksha has also helped cyber communities worldwide, and her book, “A Cybersecurity Book – Beginner’s Guide,” is intended to help anyone starting a career in cybersecurity. Her passion for sharing knowledge within organizations is also evident in her technical papers published on Medium and DZone. In addition to her professional achievements, Akanksha is also a strong advocate for women in cybersecurity. She has mentored numerous women in the field and regularly speaks at industry events to encourage more women to enter the field and break down gender barriers. 

In our discussion with Akanksha, we examined the growth and implications of cyber security in today’s digital world. We also explored the issue of diversity within the field. Furthermore, we talked about the skills and qualifications required to pursue a career in cyber security.

The Connected World and Rise of Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity has seen a significant surge in demand as individuals, organizations, and governments confront an escalating number of cyber threats. The widespread use of digital devices and the internet has amplified the risk of cyberattacks, making cybersecurity an increasingly vital field.

The cybersecurity industry has responded by developing advanced technologies, methodologies, and practices to counter these threats. This includes the development of cutting-edge encryption algorithms, threat intelligence systems, and advanced intrusion detection and prevention techniques. 

The growth in the cybersecurity industry is also being driven by the increased awareness of the importance of cybersecurity across different sectors, such as finance, healthcare, government, and education. Cybersecurity breaches can have severe consequences, including the loss of sensitive data, financial damage, and reputational harm. 

As a result, organizations are investing heavily in cybersecurity to protect their assets, and this has led to a surge in demand for cybersecurity professionals, including cybersecurity analysts, engineers, and consultants. According to industry reports, the global cybersecurity market is expected to reach over $250 billion by 2026, a clear indication of the industry’s exponential growth. 

Diversity in Cybersecurity 

The current state of diversity in the cybersecurity industry still leaves much room for improvement. According to recent studies, the industry remains largely male-dominated, with women making up only about 20% of the cybersecurity workforce. There are several factors contributing to the lack of diversity in the industry. One is the perception that cybersecurity is a male-dominated field, which can discourage women and other underrepresented groups from pursuing careers in the industry. Additionally, there may be unconscious bias in hiring and promotion processes that favor candidates who fit a certain profile or background. 

Women should participate in the cybersecurity workforce for several reasons. Firstly, the cybersecurity industry is currently facing a shortage of skilled professionals, and increasing the number of women in the field can help address this issue. It’s important to have a diverse workforce with a variety of perspectives and backgrounds to tackle the complex and constantly evolving cybersecurity challenges. 

Secondly, women’s representation in the cybersecurity industry can help to address the gender imbalance in technology-related fields, which has been a long-standing issue. Increasing the number of women in cybersecurity can help to provide role models for young women considering careers in STEM fields and encourage more girls to pursue technology-related education and career paths. 

Finally, the cybersecurity industry offers many opportunities for career advancement, including leadership positions and opportunities to work on cutting-edge technologies. Women who participate in the cybersecurity workforce can take advantage of these opportunities to build successful and rewarding careers. 

Building a Career in Cybersecurity 

Pursuing a career in cybersecurity can present its challenges, but the rewards are well worth the effort. To ensure success in this field, consider the following steps:

1. Obtain a relevant degree or certification: A degree or certification in cybersecurity, computer science, or a related field can provide you with a solid foundation of knowledge and skills required for a career in cybersecurity. Some popular certifications in cybersecurity include CompTIA Security+, Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), and many others. 
2. Gain practical experience: Practical experience is crucial in the field of cybersecurity. You can gain practical experience by interning, volunteering, or working in entry-level positions in cybersecurity. This experience will provide you with hands-on skills and knowledge that are essential for building a successful career in cybersecurity. 
3. Develop specialized skills: The field of cybersecurity is diverse, and it’s important to develop specialized skills in areas such as penetration testing, incident response, network security, and others. Specializing in a particular area of cybersecurity can help you stand out from the competition and increase your earning potential. 
4. Stay up to date with the latest cybersecurity trends: Cyber threats are constantly evolving, and it’s important to stay up to date with the latest cybersecurity trends, technologies, and best practices. You can do this by attending industry conferences, participating in online forums, and reading industry publications. 
5. Network with industry professionals: Networking with industry professionals can help you learn about job opportunities, gain insights into the industry, and build professional relationships that can be valuable throughout your career.

The possibilities of cybersecurity are vast and far-reaching, and the industry is constantly evolving to meet new challenges and threats. The growth of cybersecurity has created new job opportunities and career paths for young individuals interested in technology and computer science. As technology continues to evolve, the need for cybersecurity professionals will only increase, providing exciting and rewarding career prospects for those interested in the field.