EMBRACING CULTURAL DIVERSITY
MEET NANCY DAM, CYBERSECURITY SENIOR SPECIALIST.
Nancy Dam performs cybersecurity risk assessments, including evaluating a vendor’s security posture (third-party risk), software, system implementation, and much more. She also leads the Cybersecurity Risk Hunting Program searching for existing cybersecurity/technical risks, enforcement of response and remediation activities, and engaging with stakeholders to communicate risks and seek resolutions.
Nancy’s passion for cybersecurity began in high school at a cyber defense competition. The exposure allowed her to learn different methodologies and tools and ultimately planted a seed to pursue her career. In college, she actively participated in cybersecurity clubs and competitions, which gave her a foundation for starting a cybersecurity career. To understand the nature of cybersecurity, she states, “You need to know what an adversary would do, including offensive security tactics they would use to attempt to attack a system or organization, as well as the foundational knowledge in information technology.” She further explains that adversaries take advantage of the weakness in systems and phishing to gain access and escalate their privilege.
Soon after joining Southern California Edison (SCE), Nancy realized the impact and role cybersecurity teams have in helping keep the lights on for customers across SCE’s service area by protecting the utility’s electric grid. She also credits her colleague, Mario Perez, as someone who has positively influenced her professional career at SCE. “We are constantly challenging each other to be better and learn from our shared experiences to combat cyber attacks.”
Years later, Nancy’s appreciation for diversity and inclusion has grown. “As a first-generation Vietnamese American and woman in cybersecurity, I am thankful to work in an environment where employees are empowered regardless of gender or background.” Although Nancy sees an opportunity to increase representation, she wants to help by being a role model and inspiring others in her community to explore careers in technology.
What is the one career move you have made that you are most proud of?
Spending time in the consulting world prepared me to excel in my role at SCE. I learned how to communicate with end-users, make sure my deliverables are the best quality possible and manage situations from a technical and business perspective. I am excited about the difference I have made at SCE through my earlier experience.
As we celebrate Asian American Pacific Island (AAPI) Month, what advice would you give to the younger generation regarding AAPI?
Be proud of your individuality and your heritage. No matter where our families are from, all of us have unique and exciting experiences to share about our culture. It provides us a sense of respect, acknowledgment, and value that allows us to embrace our cultural diversity.
What are your thoughts on today’s view of the AAPI community?
It’s unfortunate to see the events occurring to the AAPI community and others, but I believe there is hope for peace. No one should be living in fear based on who they are or their background. It is important to raise awareness of inclusion and acceptance for everyone. I’ve seen the AAPI community unite to support each other, no matter who we are, on our positive endeavors. I wish there were more representation early on; there is an emotional impact when you witness a community of similar cultural backgrounds rising in solidarity.
What’s your #1 piece of advice for candidates who are looking for jobs right now?
For candidates looking for a job in cybersecurity, it’s essential to have a broad set of technical skills, as well as the specific cybersecurity skills. Interviews can include specific technical questions, and you don’t want to be thrown off by them, even if you’ve dealt with the topic before.
