Gidarette Pinto Guerrero: carving my path in cybersecurity

Working in IT and cybersecurity for over a decade has been an incredible journey. My career has taken me through multiple fields and positions, across different countries and government institutions. Today, as a Senior Security Consultant for WESTPOLE at the European Parliament, I reflect on the road that brought me here—one filled with challenges, learning, and growth.

Cybersecurity remains a male-dominated field, and as a woman, I have had to prove my expertise time and again. There have been moments when I had to break through stereotypes, ensure my voice was heard, and reaffirm my place in critical discussions. But the technical challenges were just one aspect. There was also the weight of societal expectations.

Choosing a demanding and deeply technical career meant facing questions like: “Shouldn’t you be focusing on something else?” or “Isn’t this job too intense for you?” These questions, often rooted in outdated gender roles, made me realize how important it is to follow one’s passion, regardless of societal norms. Success and fulfilment come from pursuing what we love, not from conforming to expectations set by others.

I am fortunate to now work in an environment that values diversity, expertise, and collaboration. The team at the European Parliament is balanced, supportive, and driven by mutual respect. Representation in the workplace matters, and every woman who takes up a position in the tech industry contributes to breaking down barriers and redefining norms.

On this International Women’s Day, I want to honour all the remarkable women making strides in IT. Your innovation and resilience continue to shape the future of this industry, paving the way for future generations. Let’s continue to break barriers, inspire, and push the boundaries of what is possible.

” Success and fulfilment come from pursuing what we love, not from conforming to expectations set by others.”