Women’s History Month is a time to reflect on the achievements of women in all industries, but it holds special meaning in fields like cybersecurity, which have FoxPointe Solutions, The Bonadio Group’s (TBG) dedicated cybersecurity division, our female team members are key to our success.
To celebrate Women’s History Month, we sat down with three women on our cybersecurity team, Courtney Caryl, Director at FoxPointe Solutions, and Emily Mosack and Cassidy Burns, both FoxPointe Solutions Analysts, to hear about their experiences, challenges, and advice for the next generation.
Forging a Path into Cybersecurity
Each of these women took a unique path into the cybersecurity industry, showcasing the diversity of backgrounds that can lead to success in this field.
Courtney started her career with a master’s degree in accounting. She transitioned into cybersecurity when an opportunity arose within the FoxPointe Solutions team. For her, cybersecurity was a natural extension of her skills in auditing and risk assessment. “The ever-changing challenge of staying ahead of cyber threats and the opportunity to make a significant impact in supporting organizations with assurance to maintain data security are what drive my passion in this field.”
Initially struggling to find the right major in college, Emily did not necessarily seek out a career in cybersecurity at first. She knew that math and science were her strengths but was unsure how to apply them. It wasn’t until Emily took a cybersecurity elective that everything changed. “After just one class, I stayed behind to ask my professor about adding cybersecurity as a minor—even though I was nearly finished with my junior year,” she recalls. With his encouragement, she pursued the minor and quickly realized she had found her path.
Cassidy found her way to cybersecurity through mentorship and internships. A requirement in her degree program led her to FoxPointe Solutions, where she interned during her junior and senior years before joining full-time. “I was drawn to the field because of its evolving nature and the endless opportunities it offers!”
Challenges & Opportunities
While the cybersecurity industry has traditionally been male-dominated, Courtney, Emily and Cassidy have all thrived in environments that foster inclusivity and support.
One of the most persistent challenges women face in cybersecurity is overcoming biases and proving their expertise in a field where they are often underrepresented. Many women report experiencing skepticism about their technical skills or being the only woman in the room during meetings.
Courtney acknowledges that while the industry is still evolving, she has been fortunate to work in a culture that values diversity and expertise. “I have not been questioned on whether this role is right for me or treated differently based on my gender. The firm’s culture and client relationships are built on respect, integrity, and delivering exceptional services.”
Finding mentors and role models in leadership positions can often be difficult in male-dominated fields as well, which is why visibility and support systems are critical.
For Emily, seeing strong female representation within FoxPointe Solutions has been empowering. “Having women in leadership roles inspires me and shows that there is potential for growth in the future. I’ve had great mentors and have learned to advocate for myself while continuing to grow in this space,” she shared.
Advice for the Next Generation
The role of women in cybersecurity is continuing to grow, but there’s still work to be done.
Courtney hopes to see more women in leadership positions, driving innovation and shaping the industry. “Increased representation and visibility of women will inspire the next generation and contribute to a more inclusive and diverse workforce,” she shared.
Echoing Courtney’s remarks, Cassidy added that she would love to see the field become more balanced over time. “The more diverse the industry becomes, the stronger and more innovative it will be.”
For young women considering a career in cybersecurity, Courtney, Emily and Cassidy offer the following advice:
- Stay Curious: Cybersecurity is a constantly evolving field. Keeping up with trends, learning new skills, and staying adaptable are keys to success.
- Seek Out Mentors: Having a strong support system and learning from those who have paved the way can be instrumental in career growth.
- Advocate for Yourself: Confidence and perseverance go a long way. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and take initiative.
- Embrace Challenges: The field can be intimidating but challenges present opportunities for growth and learning.
As more women continue to enter and lead in cybersecurity, the industry will benefit from greater diversity, innovation, and strength. At TBG, we are proud to support and uplift women in cybersecurity, accounting, consulting, and more, today and every day.
Ready to take the next step? Check out our current openings to find your next opportunity. Whether you’re a new college graduate or an experienced professional, we’d love to connect with you and support you in finding the right career path!
