Startup vs. Enterprise: Navigating Cybersecurity with CoGuard CEO Nadia Mazzarolo & State Farm Threat Analyst Alena Funtikova-White
Event Overview:
Join us for a dynamic session where we bridge the world of cybersecurity in both startups and large enterprises. Nadia Mazzarolo, co-founder and CEO of CoGuard, and Alena Funtikova-White, a Cyber Threat Intelligence Analyst at State Farm Insurance and a cybersecurity instructor at a Texas university, will share their unique insights from both ends of the spectrum. Whether you're curious about launching a cybersecurity career in a startup or an established organization, this event will offer invaluable perspectives on how to thrive in either environment.
Why Attend?
Startup vs. Enterprise: Explore the different career experiences between working at a startup and a large enterprise. Nadia will share her journey of building a cybersecurity startup, while Alena will provide insights on working in data security for one of the largest insurance companies.
Educational Pathways: Learn about degrees, certifications, and non-traditional routes that can help you launch or advance a successful cybersecurity career.
Practical Advice: Gain actionable tips on how to build hands-on experience, navigate career decisions, and stand out in technical roles across different organizational structures.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with professionals, students, and mentors who can support your cybersecurity career, no matter which path you choose.
Key Topics Covered:
Differences between cybersecurity in a startup and a large enterprise.
Educational paths and certifications that open doors in the industry.
Strategies to gain relevant experience, from internships to real-world projects.
Critical technical and soft skills for cybersecurity success in both environments.
Current trends, challenges, and career growth opportunities across sectors.
Who Should Attend?
Students exploring or pursuing a career in cybersecurity.
Early-career professionals seeking guidance on working in different organizational contexts.
Anyone interested in learning more about the diverse cybersecurity landscape and its career potential.
3:30 PM – 3:40 PM: Welcome Remarks
A brief introduction to the event and an overview of the speakers' backgrounds.3:40 PM – 4:20 PM: Guest Speaker Presentation
Nadia Mazzarolo: Insights on co-founding a startup and cybersecurity challenges in the startup world.
Alena Funtikova-White: Perspectives as a Cyber Threat Intelligence Analyst at State Farm, offering insights on enterprise-level threat detection and mitigation strategies, as well as educational pathways in cybersecurity.
4:20 PM-4:40 PM: Q&A Session
Ask questions about cybersecurity career paths, industry trends, and more.4:40 PM – 5:00 PM: Post-Event Networking and Refreshments
Continue discussions with speakers and attendees.
Location: Clark Hall 322