CyberWire Daily: Episode Summary

Episode Title: Yatia (Tia) Hopkins: Grit and Right Place, Right Time
Host/Author: N2K Networks
Release Date: December 29, 2024
Guest: Yatia (Tia) Hopkins, VP of Global Solutions Architecture at eSentire and Founder of Empower Cybersecurity

Introduction to Tia Hopkins

In this episode of CyberWire Daily, host N2K Networks welcomes Yatia (Tia) Hopkins, the Vice President of Global Solutions Architecture at eSentire and the founder of Empower Cybersecurity. Tia shares her inspiring journey in the cybersecurity field, highlighting the importance of grit, timing, and representation.

Early Curiosity and Education

Tia Hopkins’ fascination with technology began at a young age. She recounts, “I just always had a curiosity for understanding how things work. So you know, when I got toys, instead of playing with them I would take them apart” (01:20). This innate curiosity led her to dismantle her first computer at age 11 or 12, igniting her passion for IT.

Despite enrolling in computer engineering at the University of Miami, Tia discovered that her true passion lay in being a technologist rather than an engineer. She reflects, “I like to understand how things work and put solutions together to drive outcomes” (02:45). This self-awareness prompted her to pivot to a more technology-focused education at ITT Tech, where she delved deeper into networking and technology.

Building a Career at eSentire

Tia’s career trajectory at eSentire is marked by resilience and continuous learning. After several years in various roles, she advanced to a director position. Recognizing the need to formalize her extensive experience, Tia pursued higher education, earning a bachelor’s degree in Information Technology in 2012, followed by a master’s degree in Cybersecurity.

At eSentire, Tia oversees Global Solutions Architecture, where her team designs and implements managed detection and response services. She explains, “We have two global security operations centers that monitor our customer environments... hunt for and respond to threats on behalf of our customers” (05:10). Her role involves understanding client infrastructures, addressing security pain points, and ensuring solutions align with business objectives.

Founding Empower Cybersecurity

Driven by a desire to increase diversity in the cybersecurity field, Tia founded Empower Cybersecurity in early October. The organization focuses on empowering women of color to pursue and succeed in cybersecurity careers. Tia emphasizes the significance of representation, stating, “If I don't see a lot of women in the field or you know, representation of women that look like me in the industry that are successful, then I might go down a different path” (06:50).

Empower Cybersecurity aims to dismantle barriers to entry by providing a supportive environment where women can build both soft and hard skills, gain confidence, and access essential resources. Tia highlights the organization’s mission to address misconceptions about the field, such as the necessity of extensive programming knowledge, and to create a space where women feel represented and encouraged.

Advice for Aspiring Cybersecurity Professionals

Tia offers valuable advice for those aspiring to enter the cybersecurity industry. She underscores the importance of understanding one’s motivations and recognizing personal strengths and areas for improvement. “Understanding your why is critically important... understanding yourself, what are your transferable skills?” she advises (08:30).

She also emphasizes the demanding nature of a cybersecurity career, noting, “It is an incredibly rewarding career. It is hard work day in, day out, and it changes every day, and you have to love it so you can keep up” (09:15). Tia encourages continuous learning and adaptability as key components for success in the ever-evolving field of cybersecurity.

Conclusion

Tia Hopkins’ journey is a testament to the power of curiosity, resilience, and the pursuit of education. Her leadership at eSentire and Empower Cybersecurity not only drives technological advancements but also fosters a more inclusive and diverse cybersecurity community. Listeners are left inspired by Tia’s dedication to breaking down barriers and her commitment to empowering the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.

Notable Quotes:

• “I just always had a curiosity for understanding how things work. So you know, when I got toys, instead of playing with them I would take them apart.” — Tia Hopkins (01:20)

• “I like to understand how things work and put solutions together to drive outcomes.” — Tia Hopkins (02:45)

• “We have two global security operations centers that monitor our customer environments... hunt for and respond to threats on behalf of our customers.” — Tia Hopkins (05:10)

• “If I don't see a lot of women in the field or you know, representation of women that look like me in the industry that are successful, then I might go down a different path.” — Tia Hopkins (06:50)

• “Understanding your why is critically important... understanding yourself, what are your transferable skills?” — Tia Hopkins (08:30)

• “It is an incredibly rewarding career. It is hard work day in, day out, and it changes every day, and you have to love it so you can keep up.” — Tia Hopkins (09:15)

This episode of CyberWire Daily provides a comprehensive look into Tia Hopkins’ impact on the cybersecurity industry, her strategic career moves, and her commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion within the field.