Women in Security and Privacy (WISP) is a non-profit organization with a mission to advance women and underrepresented communities to lead the future of the security and privacy fields. Its core objectives are to provide robust opportunities for education, networking, mentorship, and leadership development. To achieve these goals, Women in Security and Privacy offers a variety of programs, including hands-on workshops, local and online events, and podcasts.
Women in Security and Privacy has cultivated a strong reputation as a key supportive entity within its industry. The organization’s standing is reinforced through partnerships with major industry events, such as the DC Metro Cybersecurity Summit, and its participation in coalitions like the Cyber Education Alliance. WISP is recognized for creating tangible career advancement opportunities for its members through scholarships and professional networking, fostering a more inclusive security and privacy community.
Offerings, Capabilities, and Integrations
Women in Security and Privacy (WISP) is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing women and underrepresented communities within the fields of security and privacy. Its core offerings revolve around creating a supportive community that fosters networking, mentorship, and leadership development. WISP provides a variety of programs, including mentorship initiatives, educational events, and scholarship opportunities, all designed to help its members grow professionally. By facilitating connections and providing resources, Women in Security and Privacy (WISP) gives its members a competitive edge in the industry. Its reputation is built on fostering a more inclusive security and privacy community and increasing the representation of women and other marginalized groups in these fields.
Products and Services
Women in Security and Privacy (WISP) offers a range of programs and resources rather than traditional products and services. These are designed to support and advance its members’ careers in the security and privacy industries.
- Mentoring: WISP provides mentorship programs that connect individuals for guidance, support, and insights into career advancement.
- Events: The organization hosts numerous online and in-person events, workshops, and podcasts throughout the year to help members gain new skills and build their professional networks. These include local meetups, happy hours, and larger panel discussions.
- Scholarships: WISP offers scholarships for members to attend conferences, participate in training programs, and obtain new certifications to help them advance in their careers. Partnerships with organizations like MAD20 and OpenSSL provide access to specialized training in areas like MITRE ATT&CK and cryptography.
- Job Board: A dedicated job board allows members to find new career opportunities and helps companies find qualified candidates within the WISP community.
- Local Groups: WISP has local chapters that allow members to network with other security and privacy professionals in their geographic area.
- Community and Networking: At its core, WISP provides a platform for networking and building a supportive community of like-minded individuals. There are no membership fees to join.
Target Customers
The primary target audience for Women in Security and Privacy (WISP) is women and individuals from underrepresented communities who are currently working in or are interested in pursuing a career in the security and privacy sectors. This includes professionals at all career levels, from those just starting out to seasoned experts looking to advance into leadership positions. The organization also engages with students and individuals considering a career transition into these fields. These target members benefit from WISP’s offerings by gaining access to a supportive network, mentorship opportunities, educational resources, and career development tools that can help them overcome barriers and achieve their professional goals. By providing these resources, WISP helps its members build connections, learn new skills, and find pathways to leadership roles within the security and privacy industries.
Cloud Integrations and Marketplaces
Women in Security and Privacy (WISP) does not have any cloud integrations or a presence on cloud marketplaces.
Key People
The leadership of Women in Security and Privacy (WISP) is composed of a board of directors. Key members include the following:
- Chair of the Board: Rachel Tobac
- Founder | Board Member: Kenesa Ahmad
- Founder | Board Member | Treasurer: Alya Franklin
- Co-Founder | Board Member: Sarah Mackey
- Board Member | Event Liaison: Alyssa Coley
- Board Member | Creative Director, Podcasts: Nicole Dove
- Board Member: Irene Mo
- Board Member | Partnership Lead: Sheila Pham
Key Facts
- Headquarters Location: San Francisco, United States.
- Number of Employees: 11-50.
- Annual Revenue: Not publicly disclosed.
- Parent Company: None.
- Subsidiary Companies: None.
- Publicly Listed: No.
Analyst Recognition
Women in Security and Privacy (WISP) is a non-profit organization and is not included in technology category reports from Gartner, IDC, or Everest Group, which typically evaluate commercial vendors.
Forrester Research has partnered with Women in Security and Privacy for its Security & Risk Summit.
