Thriving as a Woman of Color in Tech: Lessons from the Trenches

Abstract

The digital divide continues to present opportunities for women pursuing careers in technology. Dr. Mona-Lisa Pinkney will share her professional journey and the lessons she has learned — not just to survive, but to thrive — in the technology field, particularly in cybersecurity.

A dedicated advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion, Dr. Pinkney is committed to creating environments that attract, retain, nurture and support individuals from all backgrounds. As a cybersecurity expert, she will discuss how being relentless, fearless, connected, global and authentic has helped her build strong, collaborative relationships with both business and technical peers.

Speaker Bio

Dr. Mona-Lisa Pinkney is the Senior Director of Governance, Risk, Compliance, Engagement and Geos at NIKE Global Technology. She holds a bachelor’s degree from NC State University, a Master of Science from Virginia Tech, a Master of Business Administration from Loyola University and a doctorate from the University of Maryland.

With more than 25 years of experience in cybersecurity, Dr. Pinkney has worked internationally across Fortune 500 companies. She holds multiple professional certifications, including Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) and Project Management Professional (PMP).

Dr. Pinkney is a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion, focused on mentoring and sponsoring underrepresented individuals pursuing careers in technology. She is both a global and local keynote speaker and was named one of the Top 30 Most Admired Minority Professionals in Cybersecurity by Sequre World.

A lifelong learner, Dr. Pinkney is committed to supporting students interested in technology. She provides a four-year college scholarship to graduates of her hometown high school and has established an endowment fund in the College of Engineering at her alma mater, NC State. She is a founding member of Black Women in STEM 2.0, serves on the Industry Advisory Board at Florida Memorial University and sits on the Board of Directors for the Tech Talk Association.

Dr. Pinkney believes that to whom much is given, much is expected.