4 Strategies to Empower Women for Success in Their Cybersecurity Careers

Did you know that women make up only about 25% of the cybersecurity workforce? Despite progress, there’s still a long way to go to close the gender gap in the field.  

So, what can women and their allies do to empower each other on their cyber career journeys?  

In a recent webinar, Sam Reese, Director of Americas Field Marketing and leader of Illumio's The Women employee resource group, sat down with Kyla Guru, founder and CEO of cybersecurity education nonprofit Bits N’ Bytes. They shared their insights on ways to help women thrive in cybersecurity by building a more inclusive, supportive industry.

Watch Sam's and Kyla's full webinar on demand.

1. Amplify women’s voices

Women’s perspectives are indispensable in cybersecurity. As Kyla noted, “cybercrime disproportionately impacts women and vulnerable populations.” This reality means women's voices and unique insights are invaluable in security discussions.  

Kyla emphasized that her mission to improve cybersecurity education is about creating space for more women in the field, ensuring their experiences shape critical conversations.

Sam highlighted the power of representation for women’s career success no matter the industry. In fact, seeing women in leadership roles inspired her own career.  

“Being able to visualize that we can also become the next [leader] regardless of gender is so critically important,” she shared.  

Supporting women’s voices in cybersecurity not only benefits those currently in the industry. It also inspires future generations to imagine themselves as leaders in this field.

2. Be an ally and mentor  

Mentorship isn’t just helpful — it’s essential for women navigating tech careers. Kyla urged women to build their personal “board of advisors” to support every stage of their career journey. “You need those people who’ve got your back and can help you steer the ship,” she said.

A crucial way to support women’s cyber careers is to be a mentor and ally. Share your unique journey and perspective on the industry. Help women find resources that can shape and strengthen their career paths.

Even if you’re not in cybersecurity, you can still support women’s career growth. “Some of the best mentors I’ve had have been in fields completely different from mine,” Sam point out. For Sam, a well-rounded set of mentors can offer fresh strategies and viewpoints.

Allyship also plays a crucial role in empowering women in cybersecurity. Kyla highlighted that allies, particularly male colleagues, can make a powerful impact by actively “giving us the mic when it’s time.”

Male allies can amplify women’s voices by bringing them into key discussions, recommending them for opportunities, and ensuring their contributions are visible and valued. As Kayla put it, “It’s about sharing your privilege to make space for voices that often go unheard.”

3. Support women in finding work-life balance

There are endless opportunities in the cybersecurity industry that can start by saying “yes.”  

For Sam, women’s career visibility and growth often begin with helping them seize opportunities. “Say yes, no matter how big or small,” she advised. Small opportunities can be career-defining. It's crucial for women to be able to take these leaps, especially early in their careers.

But it’s also important to normalize a healthy work-life balance. It’s not always easy for women to make space for both professional and personal ambitions compared to men.  

Sam shared her own journey, acknowledging, “I really always want to give 110% to all aspects of my life, but there’s only so much of me to give.” As one audience member pointed out, sometimes the wisest move is to protect one’s peace by saying “no.” Sam agreed, adding, “It’s important to say no to things that don’t serve you.”  

Women need to know the importance of setting flexible goals, practicing self-compassion, and understanding that achieving balance doesn’t have to look perfect. By supporting women as they navigate these priorities, they can focus on high-impact opportunities and avoid burnout.

4. Make every area of cybersecurity accessible  

Cybersecurity is a large, complex field with many specialties, from threat intelligence to policy, product security, and more. Kyla stressed the importance of “trying everything.”  

For the cyber industry’s health, we must make every area accessible for all. Those joining the industry need space to explore these different paths.  

Sam also highlighted how important networking can be. She encouraged women to not be shy about introducing themselves to leadership, talking to other people in their field, and building relationships.

By encouraging women to try different areas and meet people from various specialties, we can make the cybersecurity industry more open, welcoming, and exciting.

Building a better future for cybersecurity, together

Every voice in cybersecurity strengthens the industry.  

By supporting women and amplifying diverse perspectives, we’re not just helping individuals thrive — we’re building a safer, more resilient future for all. The cybersecurity landscape will only grow stronger as more women and their allies work together to create inclusive spaces and amplify diverse voices.

Watch Sam’s and Kyla’s full discussion on demand, and learn more about Illumio’s ERGs.