Name: Rachel Phillips, PMP, Assoc. (ISC)²
(ISC)² Exam(s) Passed: CISSP
Title: Cybersecurity Analyst
Location: Seattle, WA, U.S.A.
Education: M.S. Information Technology (Security and Assurance) and B.S. Business Administration (New Media and Internet), Kaplan University
Years in IT: 10
Years in Cybersecurity: 3
Cybersecurity Certifications: Associate of (ISC)²

Rachel Phillips, PMP, Assoc. (ISC)² is an influencer and sought-after contributor for her views and leadership in technology and security. She holds a Master’s in IT with emphasis in Information Security and Assurance, and a Bachelor’s in Business Administration from Kaplan University. As a cybersecurity analyst, she provides oversight and assurance of meeting industry standards and best practices to secure the IT environment.

How did you decide upon a career in cybersecurity?

A mentor wisely advised me to consider cybersecurity several years back while I was deciding on an area of focus for my master degree. Security is not only a fast-growing industry with great employment prospects, but aligns well with my aptitudes and interests. 

 

Why did you decide to pursue certification through the Associate of (ISC)²?

The CISSP certification is considered the “gold standard” so was my first choice, and (ISC)² provides the Associate designation while working towards endorsement for CISSP. 

 

In cybersecurity, no two days are the same – what is your main role in your organization?

As a cybersecurity analyst, I am responsible for execution of the enterprise security program including initiatives, operations, security testing and security event response.  

 

Tell us about a project that you were particularly proud of:

I’m proud of many accomplishments while working in security, but the ones that stand out most are SOC audits. It’s challenging to take an organization through a successful SOC 2 Type I and then SOC 2 Type II audit. It demonstrates the maturing of a security program. Being part of that, to lead those engagements, was very rewarding. 

 

What impact has the Associate of (ISC)² had on your career?

The Associate of (ISC)² designation shows a commitment to a career in cybersecurity and provides credibility to colleagues, clients, and the like. 

 

What advice would you give to those who are thinking about pursuing cybersecurity as a career?

In my article for ITSPmag, titled ‘My Quantum Leap into Cybersecurity ,’ I advise those wondering if they have what it takes to pursue a career in cybersecurity to “apply anyway” – they just might be surprised. I love working in security, and only wish I made the move earlier! Certifications have helped me fast-track my career and I highly recommend them, but don’t let it stop you either. I pursued the Associate (ISC)² while I work towards CISSP endorsement to show my commitment to excellence in the field.

 

Learn more about how the Associate of (ISC)² can help you start on the path to certification.