Hi all

My name is Michelle, and I have been in the Network Security/Information Security field for about 12 years now.  I got into computers when I joined the Air Force back in 1995.  Wow, that seems so long ago.  I served 6 years on active duty in lovely old England (loved it!) and moved to Ohio in 2001 (close to where I am originally from). 

I currently work for a global publishing company during the day.  I have lots of projects going on after hours.  I am planning our area’s second hacker conference in October of this year!  We also run offensive computing games for fun - did I just say for fun?  :P

I am a single mom to an 8 year old boy, who is the first priority in my life. 

I have been the lone gal for the past 12 years in all of my roles, so I am looking forward to meeting other smart/driven gals here!!

Hello Security Geek:

I’ve been in the IT world for about 15 years after a stint in the Army.  I have been considering moving into the security realm.  Currently a midrange server manager.  What certifications would you recommend I start with?  I’d like to start with prevention and then move on to become an auditor for E&Y;or other auditing firm.

I’ve been in too many meetings as the only woman.  Even today, I have 20 managers that report to me and only 2 are woman.  I inherited most of the mgrs and all are qualified.  I’m hoping that by joining organizations like this and others that I can influence young woman to go into the technology world .....any techology, IT, Engineering, medicine, science…

I look forward to chatting with you.

SmartCher