More than 65 cybersecurity professionals and stakeholders convened for the Chamber’s monthly meeting of the Cyber Industry Council / CyberSecurity San Antonio program. Hosted by Girls Inc., the community welcomed Heather Aguillon from Girls Inc. and Meg O’Grady from Purdue University Global as our keynote presenters.
Both speakers tie directly to one of our five core focus areas: Talent and Workforce Development. As STEM program manager, Heather Aguillon shared that Girls Inc. of San Antonio inspires all girls to be strong, smart, and bold. 81% of the girls served identify as Latina/Hispanic; 53% of the girls’ family income levels are less than $30,000; and 45% of the girls are 9-11 years old. Girls Inc. is looking to Cyber City USA for mentors who can share their career pathways, and welcome the girls to their office spaces as visitors and as interns.
As the Vice President of Military and Public Sector Solutions, Meg O’Grady presented information on Purdue University Global’s apprenticeship program and industry partnerships. Their team advocates for San Antonio to be the preferred location for their online graduates, especially their military and veteran students. San Antonio’s collaborative community, Military City USA pride, and bustling tech and cyber industries are unmatched, and an easy choice for students graduating with degrees in cybersecurity, computer science, and engineering.
This month’s meeting wrapped up with a brief SA to DC 2019 recap from Amanda Keammerer, Acting VP for Cybersecurity and Director of CyberSecurity San Antonio. From meeting with the Federal CIO Suzette Kent at the White House to huddling at the Pentagon with B. Ed Wilson, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Cyber Policy, this year’s delegation of cyber community members was proud to represent Cyber City USA. San Antonio continues to be the lead in the nation for public-private partnerships, and CyberSecurity San Antonio encourages its members to continue investing in its impactful and urgent work.
Housed in the Chamber, CyberSecurity San Antonio is the lead convener and brand manager for the region’s cybersecurity ecosystem. To get involved, please visit https://www.sachamber.org/get-involved/request-committee-information .
