010: Interview with the Gear Goddess

SUMMARY
DEM Tech Folks have a fun conversation with Ebony Pierce consisting of back and forth shots across the screen while mixing in some helpful tips and thought provoking "gems". Ebony, a former developer now turned cybersecurity expert, shares her journey into the tech industry and her experiences working in various roles. She discusses her early exposure to technology through a hardware program and her decision to pursue a degree in computer science. Ebony also talks about her first job in a casino as an overnight backup operator and the importance of understanding IT operations. She highlights the challenges in the cybersecurity field, including the need for qualified professionals and the prevalence of certification-focused training. In this conversation, Rico and Kenny continue their discussion with Ebony about her journey in the tech industry and her role as a Chief Cyber Security Officer. They explore the importance of passion and problem-solving in cybersecurity, the misconception of quick money in the field, and the lack of representation for women and minorities. Ebony shares her experiences of being the only woman and black person in many tech spaces and the challenges she faced. She also provides valuable advice for those interested in getting into cybersecurity, including volunteering at conferences and exploring different areas of interest.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Early exposure to technology programs can spark an interest in the tech industry.
• Understanding IT operations is valuable for software developers. 
• The cybersecurity field faces challenges with the lack of qualified professionals. 
• Certification-focused training may not always provide the necessary skills and experience. Passion and problem-solving are important in cybersecurity, and chasing money without a genuine interest in the field can create issues. 
• Representation of women and minorities in tech is still lacking, and many spaces lack diversity.
• Volunteering at conferences like B-Sides and others can provide valuable networking opportunities and insights into different areas of cybersecurity. 
• The risk management framework is a useful tool for expanding understanding of cybersecurity policies and exploring different areas of interest. 
• Overcoming imposter syndrome and being comfortable with being uncomfortable are important for personal and professional growth in the tech industry.

Helpful Links:

• Rico Randall's LinkedIn
• Reginald Davis's LinkedIn
• Ebony Pierce's LinkedIn

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