This Cybersecurity Awareness Month we are reviewing the three sides of mentorship by speaking with members who are experienced mentors, mentees and those who have taken part in reverse mentorship. Review our part one blog and hear from experienced mentors.
In this, our second part of our three-part interview series we will hear from Jean Tam, CISSP, Cybersecurity Manager/Lead, Subject Matter Expert at Lockheed Martin on what the mentee experience is like.
What drove you to seek mentorship?
I was just out of college and wanted to figure out what I wanted to be when I grew up.
What did you learn through mentorship that has held value in your career?
I have a few mentors. A couple are long term. A couple have come and gone. My long-term ones have advised me through most of my career. One is very technical and has been with my company longer than I have. The other is more on the management side of the house. The other shorter-term mentors, I’ve learned about being a woman in cybersecurity/engineering or how to be a better leader. One of my current mentors is teaching more about my niche area of cybersecurity.
What skills were you seeking to develop through mentorship?
It really depends on the mentor I have. For many of my mentors, I was looking to grow my technical skills. But I also strive to be a better leader, so I find mentors in that arena as well. I am lucky and work at a great company that is quite supportive of women as engineers and as leaders. There are a lot of resources for me to find mentors in that area.
What process did you go through to seek a mentor?
I find people that I admire and ask them to be my mentor. Some people are too busy to be mentors, but I try to be as flexible as possible. Even if it’s an hour or two here and there, I’ll take what I can get. There is also a program at my company that pairs up people that are interested in mentoring with people that want a mentor.
What advice do you have for those considering mentorship?
Having a mentor gives you a whole new insight on what you are doing and what you could be doing. Those mentors also have great connections as well and could set you up for your next dream job.
Looking to be mentored? Find your next mentor and connect with others on the Career Discussions Board on the (ISC)² Community here.