Episode Summary:

The Cyber Guild is built on community, helping people use technology to their advantage and ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital age.

In this episode, Executive Director Debbie Sallis joins Gianna to share how that mission comes to life: through three targeted events helping people professionally develop in the cyber world. They host Uniting Women in Cyber, a flagship event that feels more like an experience than a conference; Cyber Connect, which pivoted in response to federal layoffs to support professionals in transition; and RISE, a mentorship program connecting seasoned leaders with those just starting their cybersecurity careers.

With only four staff and a dedicated group of volunteers, Debbie shows how impact isn’t about scale or budget, it’s about showing up, creating space, and meeting the moment together.

This episode is about how community, not scale, drives change in cybersecurity and how you can be part of it.

About Debbie

Debbie Sallis is the executive director of The Cyber Guild, a nonprofit community advancing sustainable cybersecurity and inclusive leadership. Since 2021, she has led the Guild’s flagship programs — Uniting Women in Cyber, Cyber Connect, and RISE — building initiatives that give professionals at every stage of their careers a place to connect, grow, and lead.

In addition to her role at The Cyber Guild, Debbie contributes her expertise as an Advisory Board Member with the Technology Advancement Center (TAC), which supports open-source innovation for U.S. national security and the intelligence community, and with Evans & Chambers Technology, a D.C.-based firm that delivers secure, agile software solutions for defense and intelligence missions.

Follow Debbie on LinkedIn. 

🔗 Links & Resources:

The Cyber Guild – Learn more about the nonprofit, its mission, and programs.

Uniting Women in Cyber – October 9, 2024 (Amazon HQ, Crystal City, Arlington) – Event details and registration.

Sponsorship Opportunities – Ways to support and get involved.

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Follow the Hosts:

Gianna Whitver on LinkedIn

Maria Velasquez on LinkedIn

Thank you for tuning in to another episode of Breaking Through in Cybersecurity Marketing. You can join the Cybersecurity Marketing Society on our website, main LinkedIn page, Instagram page, or podcast LinkedIn page. 

See you next Wednesday with a new episode!