Empowering Women in Cyber Security: A Journey of Growth and Resilience

Back in July 2021, I joined Norm as an L1 Analyst. I quickly progressed, becoming a Shift Lead by September 2022, and eventually settling into my current role as a Level 2 Analyst in March 2023.

My academic background in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from the renowned Middle East Technical University in Turkey provided me with a solid technical foundation. This background gave me the grounding to approach challenges with a technical mindset and precision.

My transition to the cyber security field was inspired by my cousin, who works in the industry herself. Bolstered by her encouragement, I joined a cyber security training camp in the US in August 2020. To begin with, the stuff they taught me seemed strange and difficult to understand. But as time went on, I started to really enjoy learning about it.

Navigating through a world of new terminology and many acronyms, I tackled certifications like Security+, which significantly boosted my self-confidence achieving a high score. Hands-on experience allowed me to hone my skills in various tools and techniques essential for endpoint detection, vulnerability management, and SIEM.

Initially, I began working shifts in the boot camp monitoring their internal security, I then decided to apply for jobs in the UK. My journey led me to Norm, where I’ve found a supportive environment for growth and development. Mentoring L1 Analysts on alert triage, assisting customers, and supporting our DevOps with the SOAR project (Security, Orchestration, Automation and Response) are just a few aspects of my day-to-day responsibilities.

One aspect of my journey that stands out is being one of the few women in the SOC. While this initially presented challenges, I’ve found strength in diversity, contributing my unique perspective to the team. Today, it’s cool to see more women joining the SOC, fostering an environment of inclusivity and innovation.

Despite being in a predominantly male-dominated industry, I’ve found my footing by focusing on my abilities rather than my gender. Being interested in tech – I have always been in the minority – from my university course to the workplace, but I believe it’s essential to challenge preconceived notions and ensure that recognition is based on merit, not gender.

My advice to any female starting out in the tech industry generally is that you take time to recognise and utilise your skills to do well. Skills such as problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication are really important, and quite often women are naturally good at these things. Embracing these strengths and continuously learning are key to excelling.

Personally, I really enjoy digging into security problems, utilising my technical skills to fix problems and safeguard digital landscapes. The dynamic nature of cyber security keeps me engaged, presenting new opportunities for learning and collaboration each day.

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, I believe the inclusion and support of women in cyber security is vital for driving innovation and progress in the industry. By amplifying diverse voices and experiences, we can overcome challenges more effectively and create a stronger, safer cyber landscape for all.

Written by Gul Urhan

Gul Urhan is a Level 2 Analyst in Threat Detection & Response at Norm. With a strong analytical mindset and expertise in cyber security, Gul is committed to safeguarding Norm’s customers against emerging threats. Leveraging her background in technology and a passion for continuous learning, Gul brings valuable insights to the team, ensuring that Norm’s customers remain protected.