There’s our scholarship program, where we paid the full cost for 20 women to take Security+ training, which is recognized globally. We had mentors for the women all the way through, and they had access to learning platforms. Several who obtained their Security+ certification have gotten job promotions, new jobs, salary increases, or a new job title. Some are also renegotiating their salaries as a result of their certification.

We also have our FAST (Females Advancing in Security and Technology) Awards, for women in the early stages of their careers. One finalist started a WCS2 chapter in Gambia. Research has shown that in Canada, 50% of women drop out of IT careers in the first four years. We want to boost their confidence by recognizing their achievements, so they’ll continue in the industry.