Kourtney Hayes
Our latest Q&A interview features Kourtney Hayes, a cybersecurity leader and advocate who proves that nontraditional paths can lead to powerful impact. From business management to securing access and AI systems, Kourtney has built a career grounded in curiosity, community, and making cyber more inclusive. We loved diving into her mission to help others break in—and stay in—the field.
Can you tell us about your journey into the field of cybersecurity? What inspired you to pursue a career in this industry?
My journey into cybersecurity was very peculiar and anything but traditional. I started my career in customer service and retail management before discovering the world of technology. I have a business degree in management and my MBA, not a computer science background, but I was always curious about how to make over 6 figures without being a doctor or lawyer (even though we need those professions), curious about how data was protected, and how bad actors were stopped. I leaned into that curiosity, upskilled through certifications like CompTIA Security+ and CEH, and started raising my hand for opportunities others might have been intimidated by. My leap into cybersecurity was driven by a desire to protect people, data, and organizations, especially those from underrepresented communities and make good money. I’ve now spent over a decade in the field, building secure systems, driving security solutions, and guiding others into tech through my coaching business and brand, The Chic Tech Firm”.
What do you find most exciting about working in cybersecurity? Are there any specific aspects or challenges that keep you engaged?
The field is constantly evolving, which means you never stop learning. Every day, there’s a new threat vector, an emerging technology, or a challenge to tackle. What excites me most is the impact. I’m not just solving technical problems; I’m helping build trust and resilience into systems that people rely on every day. As someone who works at the intersection of compliance, access management, and AI security, I’m especially interested in solving the “people problem” in security by making complex policies understandable and accessible so that we improve human behavior and reduce risk in meaningful ways.
As a millennial in the cybersecurity field, what do you think sets your generation apart in terms of approach or perspective towards cyber threats?
Millennials bring a unique blend of digital fluency and mission-driven thinking. We grew up alongside the internet. We’ve seen it go from dial-up to AI-powered systems, which makes us more adaptable and aware of the nuances of cyber risk. We tend to value transparency, innovation, and community. That shows up in how we approach security problems. We don’t just look for technical solutions. We ask who’s impacted, how to design for equity, and how to build with intention. We’re also more likely to advocate for mental health, work-life balance, and inclusive environments, which makes our security culture more sustainable.
How do you stay updated with the latest trends and developments in cybersecurity? Are there any specific resources or communities you rely on?
I stay plugged in through a mix of formal and informal channels. I’m active in professional communities like Women in Cybersecurity (WiCyS), ITSMF, and Women in Tech. I also read industry blogs, join Slack groups, attend webinars, sign up for newsletters like “The Hacker News” and follow thought leaders on LinkedIn. Conferences like AWS re:Inforce and AfroTech help me stay on the cutting edge, and I love mentoring because it challenges me to stay sharp for the next generation.
Could you share a memorable experience or project from your cybersecurity career that taught you valuable lessons or insights?
One of the most impactful projects I led involved redefining access management policies for a global cloud platform. The challenge wasn’t just technical. It involved navigating cross-functional teams, aligning with legal and compliance, and translating complex requirements into real-world processes. It taught me the value of clear documentation, stakeholder alignment, and speaking the language of both engineers and executives. It also reminded me that leadership isn't about having all the answers. It's about driving clarity, asking the right questions, and building mechanisms that scale.
What advice would you give to other millennials aspiring to pursue a career in cybersecurity?
Don’t count yourself out because you didn’t start with a technical background. Cybersecurity needs analysts, strategists, communicators, and problem-solvers from all walks of life. Start with what you’re good at, then build the technical foundation as you grow. Certifications can open doors, but mindset, curiosity, and community will sustain you. Raise your hand for the scary projects, find mentors who challenge you, and always remember this: you belong here. Your perspective is your power.
What role do you see artificial intelligence and machine learning playing in the future of cybersecurity?
AI and ML are reshaping the threat landscape and the way we defend against it. From anomaly detection to predictive threat modeling, AI can help security teams respond faster and smarter. But it also introduces new risks like biased models, adversarial attacks, and unclear accountability. That’s why I believe security professionals must be embedded in AI development cycles. We can’t secure what we don’t understand. I’m personally passionate about AI security because it sits at the intersection of innovation, ethics, and protection.
What suggestions do you have for making cybersecurity and IT education more accessible and engaging for the general public?
We need to demystify cybersecurity. Too often, it’s presented as something you have to be a genius to understand, when really it’s about protecting what matters. I think storytelling, hands-on learning, and real-world scenarios make all the difference. We also need more representation. When people see others who look like them thriving in tech, they believe they can do it too. That’s why I use my platform to share my story, create content, and coach women of color who want to break into the industry.
Keeping Up With this Intellect…
Socials:
Personal Page - @thecybersecuritybabe
Business Page - @thechictechfirm
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kourtney-hayes-mba-ceh-a2096588