We celebrate the many women who make BlackCloak a special place to work and a leader in personal cybersecurity. Their contributions and perspectives are invaluable every day. International Women in Cyber Day is an excellent time to recognize their efforts and support BlackCloak’s mission of protecting people’s digital lives. Read what some of them have to say about their experience in the industry and what drives them to succeed.

Ingrid Gliottone, Chief Experience Officer
“I chose cybersecurity because it is ever-growing and ever-evolving, offering new challenges and opportunities every day. More importantly, it allows me to help others. As technology advances, the same tools that enable progress can also be exploited for harm. My passion lies in educating people about the risks and empowering them to build stronger defenses, so together we can protect what matters most – individuals and their digital lives.”

Courtney Howell, Senior Incident Responder
“Growing up, I actually hated computers! I would get so annoyed when something didn’t work the way I wanted it to. As our world has evolved and become increasingly reliant on technology, I have come to understand that there is great power in understanding our symbiotic relationship with computers. That’s where my interest in cybersecurity began to blossom. From there, I have been able to help many friends and family members feel safer and secure in this rapidly changing world. I find immense value in my career because it forces me to keep learning and stay attuned to the world around me to better protect myself and my loved ones.”

Taylor Lake, IT Support Analyst
“I didn’t set out to work in cybersecurity, but as technology became central to everything, I realized managing it wasn’t enough. I needed to defend it. Cyber has given me purpose, challenge, and the chance to protect what matters most. To young women considering this field: your curiosity, perspective, and voice are powerful assets. Don’t be afraid to take up space – the industry needs you. Seek out communities and mentors who will support you. Organizations like Women in Cybersecurity or local meetup groups are fantastic places to connect with other women who can offer guidance and encouragement.”

Tracey Moon, CMO
“I’ve spent 30 years in technology because I’ve never met a problem I didn’t want to solve. My early entry into cybersecurity, combined with my current role at BlackCloak, gives me purpose. Every day, we help people and families who’ve experienced attacks, and that’s why I get up in the morning. To women just starting in this field: know that your perspective and your persistence are invaluable. Cybersecurity is a place where curiosity, creativity, and determination truly make a difference, and where your impact can protect lives, families, and futures.”

Kerry Nagle, COO
“I came to cybersecurity after experiencing identity theft attacks firsthand and realizing that criminals don’t just target companies; they go after people – executives, families, and unsuspecting individuals. Being a victim of identity theft showed me how deeply an attack can impact every part of life – your family, finances, and even your career. That perspective drives my work: prevention, protection, and education. Cybersecurity serves as a defense against malicious actors and provides an opportunity to protect livelihoods. To young women considering this path, my advice is simple: don’t wait. This field needs problem solvers and innovators, and your impact will be powerful. Start anywhere, because every step you take strengthens the fight to keep others safe.”

Magda Pelka, Software Engineer
“I’ve always been fascinated by how the web works behind the scenes and why protecting our assets is so critical in a digital-first world. Attackers constantly evolve their tactics, so I’m always learning and adapting. There’s never a boring day in this field. Cyber has also shaped how I live: I’m more mindful when I travel, more critical of the tools I use, and more intentional about protecting my data. For young women considering this path, my advice is simple: go for it. You don’t need to know everything on day one – curiosity and persistence will carry you far. Explore different areas of cybersecurity, because there’s space for every skill set in this fascinating and rewarding field.”

Rachel Quinn, Director of Content and Campaigns Management
“I didn’t set out to build a career in cybersecurity, but it has been one of the most rewarding surprises of my professional life. The pace, the constant learning, and the meaningful impact mean you are continuously challenged and always learning. As a parent, it has opened my eyes to the importance of protecting my family’s digital footprint and instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility. I truly appreciate the opportunity to work with some of the brightest minds in the industry. Cybersecurity thrives on collaboration and the unique contributions each of us brings. To women considering this field, find mentors, build your network, and trust your perspective. Your voice is needed and your impact is real.”

Nidhu Thomas, Senior SDET, Quality Assurance
“We live in a digital world where our personal data is everywhere, and BlackCloak’s mission of protecting digital lives deeply resonates with me. After 15 years in software, cybersecurity has changed the way I approach technology every day, making me more mindful of risks and allowing me to educate and protect my family and friends. Everyone deserves the right to protect themselves, their privacy, and their assets from bad actors. For young women considering this career, my advice is to start by building a strong foundation and exploring widely through courses, podcasts, and other resources. It may feel intimidating at first, but with persistence, it becomes second nature.”

Jana Whitcomb, VP, Partnerships
“After more than 25 years in technology sales, my journey into cybersecurity began in 2005, securing critical infrastructure for some of the world’s largest service providers, which sparked both my passion and my purpose. What excites me most is the combination of cutting-edge technology, an ever-evolving threat landscape, and the challenge of solving complex problems in real time. In cybersecurity, we constantly learn and adapt – which makes it a truly rewarding field. To young women aspiring to join this industry, my advice: don’t hesitate, just jump in. Curiosity and energy will take you far, and building a network of mentors and role models will help you thrive in this field where the impact is both real and meaningful.”