Liji Samuel, an accomplished professional in the cybersecurity field, recently took the time to speak about her remarkable career journey. From her earliest aspirations to work in the STEM field to her current position as Chief of Standards and Certification at the NSA’s Cyber Collaboration Center, Liji has navigated a challenging but rewarding path.
Liji’s interest in STEM was sparked at a young age, inspired by her older cousins who were pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. This exposure ignited a curiosity within her and fostered a deep passion for these fields. As she grew older, Liji actively sought out opportunities to immerse herself in the world of technology and cybersecurity.
Throughout her career, Liji gained valuable experience by working for various companies. These roles allowed her to cultivate her skills and expertise, ultimately preparing her for the critical position she holds today. Liji mentioned that one of the pivotal moments in her career was when she became acquainted with the world of cybersecurity. The term “cybersecurity” became a pervasive buzzword, capturing her attention and driving her to seek out opportunities in this rapidly evolving field.
In her pursuit of cybersecurity knowledge and experience, Liji made the bold decision to step out of her comfort zone and join the US Cyber Command. There, she took on a management position within the architecture and engineering division. This significant move facilitated her growth and positioned her for even greater success in the future.
As Liji continues to forge her path in the cybersecurity industry, she credits her perseverance and resilience in overcoming the various barriers she encountered along the way. When asked about the challenges she faced, Liji stated, “So there are challenges and barriers that come across constantly with our work. Um, one just has to pause and reflect on how we can work with it, around it, or influence like our stakeholders and jointly create a vision around it.”
Liji’s ability to navigate these obstacles with a positive mindset and strategic thinking has undoubtedly contributed to her accomplishments. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration and leveraging the support of stakeholders to overcome challenges rather than succumbing to them. This mindset has allowed her to thrive in a field that demands constant adaptation and innovative thinking.
In conclusion, Liji Samuel’s inspiring career journey serves as a testament to the power of dedication, perseverance, and a passion for the STEM field. Her story exemplifies the immense opportunities available within the cybersecurity industry and highlights the importance of constantly evolving in a rapidly changing digital landscape. We extend our gratitude to Liji for sharing her remarkable story with us and wish her continued success in her role as Chief of Standards and Certification at the NSA’s Cyber Collaboration Center.