Unstoppable Stories - Episode 24: A Journey Through Cybersecurity, Mentorship & Motherhood

In this episode of Unstoppable Stories, host Lauren Cardillo is joined by Danielle Rowell, a Chief Information Security Officer with Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and UMGC alumna. Danielle shares her story about how she went from being an events planner to becoming an executive within the cybersecurity industry, all while raising a family.Danielle has worked hard in order to achieve where she is. She began without any experience or certifications for cybersecurity, but found a passion for the industry and did everything she needed to do in order to be a part of it. Danielle speaks about how her hard-working ethics lead her to where she is today, as well as what she believes it means to be a great leader. Make sure to tune in to hear her story about persistence and success!Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments!To learn more about UMGC, visit: UMGC.edu/UnstoppableTime Stamps: 00:00 Intro00:51 Going from Communications to Cybersecurity2:59 The Appeal of Cybersecurity4:32 Finding Danielle’s first job in Cyber6:06 Getting Certifications7:02 Staying Motivated7:54 Danielle Proving Herself to her Clients and Coworkers8:58 Planning out Danielle’s Future Career10:16 Danielle’s Life Working and Raising a Family12:36 Switching Positions for Better Work/life Balance13:41 Being in a Leadership Role15:31 Advice to Others16:32 Getting Out of Your Comfort Zone18:58 Surprising Things about Danielle's Position21:01 Becoming a Life Coach and Mentor23:20 When to Step Out of a Leadership Role24:26 Goals for the Future25:37 Danielle’s Mom’s Effect on her Growth27:45 Mentors Throughout Danielle's Life28:49 Working for a Large Organization30:58 Tips on making it31:55 Outro