The cybersecurity industry is pursuing numerous initiatives to increase diversity among professionals working in technology sectors, yet women still make up less than 25% of today's cybersecurity workforce. While it's positive that 83% of organizations say they have near-term diversity hiring goals, 40% of those surveyed indicate they have difficulty finding qualified candidates from varied backgrounds, including women.

At Fortinet, we're committed to growing the cybersecurity workforce by building an inclusive, equitable, and diverse workforce within our organization and across the industry. Our goal is to train 1 million people in cybersecurity by 2026 through our Fortinet Training Institute programs, furthering our commitment to bringing more individuals from different backgrounds to the field.

In celebration of Women's History Month this March and International Women's Day on March 8, we spoke with Cini Antony, R&D Senior Manager at Fortinet. Below, Cini shares insights about her work in cybersecurity and advice for other women looking to jump-start or advance their careers in the field.

Opportunities and Advice for Women in Cybersecurity

Can you briefly describe your work experience and career to date?

Cini:I started my career with Cisco Systems in India, where I was introduced to networking. Early in my career, I focused on learning and getting hands-on experience with new technologies in the networking field. I worked as a development testing engineer and tested various protocol implementations from various domains, such as switching, routing, virtual private networks, quality of service, multiprotocol label switching, wireless, and more. While working, I earned my master's degree in software systems and completed several certification courses.

When my family moved to the United States in 2014, I looked for an opportunity that could challenge me and allow me to make an impact. I joined Fortinet in December 2014, and am fortunate to have amazing colleagues around me who believe in and always encourage me to take up new challenges. Currently, I manage the ETAC-AMER Chassis and FCON Services teams.

What attracted you to a career in cybersecurity? How did you get to Fortinet?

Cini:While the internet has undoubtedly benefited society in numerous ways, becoming a parent made me hyper-aware of just how dangerous the digital world can potentially be. I developed the desire to learn more about cybersecurity, hoping to better protect my children and make an impact in an important field. I found Fortinet a leading player in this sector and looked for an opportunity to join the company.

Can you share what it's like to be a woman working in the technology sector, and what career achievement are you most proud of?

Cini:I have always had positive experiences with my peers, finding the support I needed. I believe my passion for knowledge made me stand out and made it easy for me to collaborate with others. When I look back, the most satisfying career moments are related to making a positive impact on society and those around me. My current role gives me that feeling every day where I can measure the impact I'm having on customers and peers alike. If I had to choose just one achievement, the first thing that comes to mind is my work on Fortinet's SD-WAN NSS certification, which paved the way for Fortinet to earn numerous accolades related to its SD-WAN offering.

What role has training and mentoring played in your career?

Cini:Early in my career, I always sought out training opportunities. This was an easy way to learn new things and get different perspectives from others. I also identified role models around me and made a point to teach and mentor others whenever possible. I believe these efforts gave me the ability to understand different perspectives, which is a crucial skill in resolving any technical or non-technical issue. Furthering my soft skills and pursuing technical training helped me grow personally and professionally.

What advice would you give to women looking to start or grow their cybersecurity career?

Cini:Women in technology need to prioritize learning and furthering their skills. Balancing all of this with your personal life is an ongoing challenge. However, if you build a habit of learning something new every day, big or small, this process becomes easier and more enjoyable.

At the end of each day, I always ask myself two questions: What did I learn today? And did my actions make a positive impact? These two questions inspire me and keep me motivated.

If you strive to create a positive impact in whatever you do, you will automatically build good relationships and surround yourself with great people. My advice is to always give everything your best shot irrespective of the outcome. Eventually, you will reap the rewards with a strong sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.

Find out more about how theFortinet Training Institute's programs, including the NSE Certification program, Academic Partner program, and Education Outreach program, are helping to solve the cyber skills gap and prepare the cybersecurity workforce of tomorrow.