“WiCyS’s Capture the Flag challenges ignited my passion for cybersecurity. Growing up surrounded by video games, the gamification of security through CTFs spoke directly to my interests. It showed me the dynamic possibilities within cybersecurity, proving that there are myriad paths to discovering one’s passion for cyber beyond traditional education. CTFs transformed my perspective, showing me that cybersecurity isn’t just a subject to learn, but a world to explore and conquer.”
– Christine Morency, Senior Cloud Security Specialist at Merck
In the vast and dynamic realm of cybersecurity, tales of transformation and empowerment are aplenty, and Christine Morency’s story stands as a testament to the life-changing impact of the Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS) organization. From her humble beginnings in physical therapy to her current stature as a Senior Cloud Security Specialist at Merck, Christine’s professional trajectory exemplifies the transformative power of passion, perseverance and community support.
Graduating from Howard University with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2013, Christine’s path to cybersecurity commenced during the Covid era, amidst a period of introspection where she sought fulfillment beyond her career in physical therapy. It was during this time that she stumbled upon WiCyS and its Security Training Scholarship Program, a providential offering that furnished her with a structured pathway into the cybersecurity realm, despite her lack of prior experience in the domain. Drawn to WiCyS’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, Christine wholeheartedly embraced the program in 2020, a decision that would reshape her professional trajectory profoundly.
WiCyS’s emphasis on community and mentorship proved pivotal in Christine’s professional evolution. From cohort leaders to career specialists, Christine found herself enveloped by a supportive network of individuals eager to guide her through every phase of her journey. The camaraderie and guidance she experienced alleviated the daunting prospect of navigating the cybersecurity landscape, empowering her to forge ahead with unwavering confidence and determination.
A key moment in Christine’s narrative unfolded during her first WiCyS conference, where she found herself inspired by the stories of like-minded individuals and emboldened to share her own journey. This experience proved to be a gateway to fresh opportunities and connections, even landing Christine her first role in the cyber field as a Cloud Security Engineer at Booz Allen Hamilton. Through WiCyS, Christine not only expanded her technical knowledge but also cultivated invaluable professional relationships that have been instrumental to her success.
Central to Christine’s journey was WiCyS’s pioneering approach to cybersecurity education, epitomized by gamified challenges such as Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions. As someone who grew up immersed in gaming culture, Christine found herself drawn to the puzzles and challenges of cybersecurity—a revelation that solidified her passion for the field. Through these challenges, she discovered her passion for cybersecurity as she recognized the potential for exploration and continuous learning beyond traditional education. The dynamic and interactive approach to cybersecurity resonated deeply with her, serving as a catalyst for her career transition into the field.
Today, Christine stands at the pinnacle of her cybersecurity career, having transitioned from physical therapist to Cloud Security Analyst at Merck, bringing exceptional technical, analytical and problem-solving skills to the table. Reflecting on her journey, Christine acknowledges the profound impact of WiCyS on her life. From rendering accessible training opportunities to fostering a supportive network, WiCyS played an indispensable role in shaping her career trajectory and fueling her passion for cybersecurity.
As WiCyS continues its mission to empower women in cybersecurity, Christine’s story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration—a testament to the boundless possibilities that await those who dare to pursue their passions in the cybersecurity realm.