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CyberWire Daily

Ann Johnson: Trying to make the world safer. [Business Development] [Career Notes]

Sep 8, 2024
Ann Johnson, Corporate Vice President of Cybersecurity Business Development at Microsoft, shares her unexpected journey from aspiring lawyer to cybersecurity leader. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship and continuous learning, unveiling her passion for public key infrastructure. Ann also highlights the need for diversity in cybersecurity and advocates for a human-centric approach, focusing on empathy and user experience. Her insights aim to inspire a more inclusive and accessible industry.
07:17

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Ann Johnson's unconventional career path reveals that diverse backgrounds can lead to successful and fulfilling roles in cybersecurity.
  • Emphasizing the need for empathy and user experience, Johnson advocates for a cultural shift toward inclusivity within the cybersecurity field.

Deep dives

Navigating a Career in Cybersecurity

The journey into cybersecurity can be unorthodox, as demonstrated by the speaker's transition from aspiring lawyer to technology professional. Initially motivated by a desire to understand the world and communicate effectively, they discovered a passion for technology while working as a salesperson in a computer store. This unexpected path led to a deep technical aptitude, prompting them to pursue various certifications without formal education. Ultimately, they became a PKI architect and specialist, illustrating that diverse backgrounds can lead to successful careers in cybersecurity.

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