What does it take to pivot from social work into AI governance and cybersecurity in just three years? In this episode of Authentically Cyber, I sit down with Sabrina, an AI, Governance, and Security Consultant, to talk about her unconventional path into tech and how curiosity, networking, and persistence helped accelerate her career.

We discuss how she went from studying social work to diving headfirst into cybersecurity and AI, the importance of building relationships, overcoming imposter syndrome, and why communication skills matter just as much as technical knowledge. Sabrina also shares insight into her current work in AI governance and practical advice for anyone wondering where to begin learning AI today. Whether you're coming from a non-traditional background or trying to figure out your next step in cyber or AI, this conversation is packed with honest insight and encouragement.

⏱️ Timecodes

0:00 Introduction

1:20 From Social Work to Technology

2:26 Going down the technology rabbit hole

3:00 Why AI, Governance, and Security

3:35 Bootcamp and Networking

3:53 First role in Cyber

4:41 Sabrina’s take on imposter syndrome

5:25 The moment she knew she was going into Cyber

6:51 Sabrina gets noticed

10:26 Networking

14:45 Importance of knowing how to speak to all people when networking

17:46 The 4C’s of Success 22:00 Getting into AI and Cyber in 3 years

23:50 Current role as an AI, Governance, and Security Consultant

25:40 How to begin studying AI

27:15 How to connect with Sabrina