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You got it, girl! Andrea's inspiring journey as a woman in the IT field

Looking back at how my journey in IT Security began, it feels like destiny disguised as doubt. I had just wrapped up my first role in Quality Assurance at P&A Grant Thornton when an opportunity in IT Security opened up. At first, I hesitated. It felt like standing at the edge of something vast and unfamiliar. I was torn between fear and curiosity. I turned to my family for guidance, and they supported me wholeheartedly, no matter what path I chose. In the end, I asked myself, “Why not take the leap?” That one decision changed everything.

Curiosity led me into the world of IT Security. I used to watch the team work with all these tools and systems, and I was drawn to the mystery of it all — what they were doing, how they were doing it. That spark of interest grew into a passion to learn and experience it firsthand. Starting from scratch, I immersed myself in the basics, gradually mastering the complex tools and programs that protect the Firm every day. Just like cybersecurity itself, my journey has been one of constant evolution — driven by courage, curiosity, and the will to turn uncertainty into opportunity.

My personality played a big role in this journey. My colleagues often say I’m brave — never afraid to speak up, always ready to take on tough challenges. That mindset helped me grow into the next level. Being promoted to Semi-Senior was both thrilling and intimidating. It came with greater responsibility, but also with a deeper sense of purpose. It’s been a fulfilling journey of growth, learning, and self-discovery.

But above all, my greatest inspiration is my son. He’s the reason I strive to be better every single day. Knowing he depends on me fuels my drive to grow and succeed. I see my career as a domino effect — every step I take shapes his future. My mantra is simple: When I grow personally and professionally, I can give him a better life.

Motherhood is a role like no other. There’s no manual, no job order, no set pattern. You learn as you go, and it’s both exciting and a little scary. Watching my son grow, seeing him succeed in school or figure things out on his own — those moments fill me with pride and joy.

Balancing motherhood with a demanding career in IT Security isn’t easy, but I make it work. At the office, I give my full focus. At home, I’m just one call away. I make sure to spend quality time with my son and cherish every moment we share.

Being a woman in IT Security has been an empowering experience. Though the field is often male-dominated, I’ve never felt out of place. My colleagues have always been respectful and supportive, treating everyone equally. While stereotypes still exist, I’m proud to say that P&A Grant Thornton is helping change the narrative by welcoming more women into the field. We recently welcomed a new female IT Security junior — a sign that progress is happening, and it’s exciting to witness.

I see my role not just as a career, but as a responsibility — to show that women belong in IT Security and in any field they choose. It’s not about gender; it’s about passion, skill, and determination.

To the young women dreaming of a career in IT Security: Go for it. Don’t let anyone’s doubts hold you back. Follow your passion, because doing what you love will never be a decision you regret.