Reflecting on My Journey
As a Women in Tech Global Awards 2025 winner, what does this recognition mean to you, and how does it reflect your journey and impact in tech?
Being recognized as the winner of the Cybersecurity Leader of the Year award means a lot to me.
During my career, I’ve worked at the intersection of AI, cybersecurity, and next-generation networks like 5G and 6G. The work I do related to 5G and 6G security standards involves months and years of global collaborations across industry, academia, and the public sector and is often behind the scenes. Even though people may not realize it, this work is vital in shaping the security and reliability of global communications that will be used by billions of people worldwide.
This recognition underscores the importance of this work and highlights that research in emerging technology and developing standards can have a big impact at a global scale. This award motivates me to continue advancing secure innovation in emerging technologies while uplifting and inspiring others.
Tech Industry's Most Rewarding Aspects
In your experience, what is the most rewarding aspect of working in the tech industry, and how has it influenced your career path?
The most rewarding aspect of working in tech is the ability to create solutions that meaningfully improve people’s lives. In my field, the technologies I help secure impact critical infrastructure, global mobile connectivity, and future AI-driven networks.
I enjoy thinking of creative solutions to solve problems and throughout my career, I have pursued career goals that encourage lifelong learning. I have enjoyed learning new things and developing new skills throughout my career starting from academic research to industry leadership and international advisory roles.
My Tech Career Milestone
Could you share a defining moment or a key achievement in your tech career that has been particularly impactful or meaningful to you?
One defining moment was when one of my AI-driven security proposals was adopted into O-RAN Alliance security specifications becoming part of the global foundation for securing 5G and emerging 6G networks. Seeing my research evolve to being part of the specifications used by operators and vendors worldwide affirmed that deep technical work can have a large-scale impact. Seeing my research in O-RAN Alliance whitepapers which inform others in the ecosystem is also very rewarding.
Another meaningful milestone is serving as an advisor to the U.S. Federal Communications Commission on AI security and trustworthy and ethical AI as part of the Communications Security, Reliability, and Interoperability Council. Contributing input to national-level guidance and ethical frameworks made me realize that technology and policy must work hand-in-hand to build a safer digital future.
Empowering Women in Tech: Real Stories, Career Advice, and Tips
From your experience, what essential advice and practical tips would you offer to women aspiring to establish a successful career in tech?
Aim to learn something new every day. Find communities that can offer support throughout your journey and mentors to guide you because having a support system is very important.
Do not be afraid to make your own path. Apply for roles, speak at conferences, and publish your ideas. I have spoken at conferences and events in my free time, and I would use my PTO and vacations to do so. The visibility helped me progress in my career faster. Visibility matters as much as (sometimes even more than) your experience.
Who would you recommend to join the WomenTech Network, and why?
I would recommend the WomenTech Network to anyone seeking a global community that celebrates technical excellence and leadership. The community offers mentorship, events, and a sense of belonging.
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