While cybersecurity has become increasingly relevant in recent years, it has been a concern for decades. Leadership in DECA—or any organization—requires effective communication with people from diverse backgrounds, and cybersecurity is no exception, as professionals continually communicate security concerns to business leaders.
Meet Bianca Ionescu, a student leader and founder of the Women in Cybersecurity (WiCys) chapter at UNLV, who has explored the connection between cybersecurity and leadership. Bianca began her journey at the GenCyber summer camp in 2018, where she learned everything from basic cybersecurity hygiene to password cracking. Transitioning from aspirations of becoming a professional musician to pursuing cybersecurity, she now shares how the field has benefited her professionally and how it can help others.
How has cybersecurity helped you personally and professionally?
Personally, cybersecurity has helped me be more cyber-conscientious about staying safe online and has helped me keep my loved ones digitally safe as well. Professionally, becoming a part of the cybersecurity community has led to developing not only technical skills but also soft skills. I've learned that social networking is one of the most important types of networking you can learn in the field.
How have you seen cybersecurity benefit people of various majors?
I've seen cybersecurity benefit people of all sorts of majors. I have a friend who's a journalism major, and she's learned so much about operational security (OPSEC) when it comes to marketing for organizations. I have another friend who's in political science; with her background, she's amazing at conducting Open Source Intelligence (OSINT), finding out certain things and learning how to go about policy when it comes to cyber. I even know an English major that she's become a great technical writer. I used to be a musician, and now I have cybersecurity knowledge; I can use my attention to detail and patience with repetitive actions.
How can Collegiate DECA members learn and grow with knowledge in cybersecurity?
DECA members can learn and grow with knowledge in cybersecurity by being able to protect themselves and their loved ones online. Also, having cybersecurity knowledge makes one less of a liability for any company you want to work for; you are considered reliable. You also learn how to be a technical translator. Translating technical jargon into non-technical terms is important in developing strong communication skills, which are valuable anywhere in your career.
Just like the misconception that DECA is only for those in business, understanding the basics of protecting yourself and others is essential for all future leaders. Consider taking on some cybersecurity lessons during your degree, as you may find them beneficial for your future job or business.
