Staff Spotlight - Melissa Ivacheff
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Hey DT!
As a part of Women's History Month, we're featuring folks at the Department of Technology (DT).
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| Today, we took time to talk with Melissa!
Since last year, Melissa has been on the frontlines of the Office of Cybersecurity operations team.
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What brought you into technology? |
My path into technology is definitely non-linear!
I entered the world of technology quite late — into my late 20s. It was a long and winding path to get here – I admit I didn’t grow up with much exposure to computers or even the thought that I had a chance to pursue a role in technology. To get where I am today, it took several major pivots and a continued interest in my curiosities.
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My 'in' into technology started with finding work opportunities as Tech Support at internet service providers in the Bay Area. From there, I wanted to better myself in my role, so I decided to go back to school to take classes for computer networking and information technology.
Ultimately, my studies led me to pursue cybersecurity as my degree, and it eventually allowed me the opportunity to work here at DT as a Cyber Defense Engineer.
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What was a significant event on your technology journey? |
The most significant life experience for me was going back to school and earning a second degree in Cybersecurity.
My first degree is a BA in Cinema – very far off from technology! Don’t get me wrong, I still LOVE creative arts, and I don’t think that will ever change. In fact, I love many forms of creative expressions: photography, music performance, working with my hands with painting and throwing pottery – the list goes on.
But my second degree in Cybersecurity was an intentional pivot toward a new career path where I would follow my growing passion and curiosity for technology and ultimately be able to use my new skills toward a larger purpose.
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What are some challenges you faced? |
Two challenges I can share.
One is making that pivot in my career. If I wanted to pivot, I knew I had to give it my best shot. I knew I’d have to pay my dues with many late nights studying and skipping out on social events. Not only that – I had to be prepared to start from the bottom again. That was a huge risk to me, but I knew it would be worth the time and effort.
My second challenge was experiencing a whole lot of imposter syndrome. At many points, I thought computer networking and IT was beyond me. I identified as a creative person in a room full of technical people. Not only that — but I’d look around and not see other people who looked like me. I was the odd one out.
What's more, I didn't grow up building computers or having a mentor who encouraged me to pursue this career change. To navigate through it, I relied on the skills that I knew I had. This helped me realized my past experience was not wasted time, but a toolset and unique perspective I could bring to the table.
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Who is someone important to your life journey? |
My family. As an adult, I think a lot about the sacrifices my grandparents and parents made for me to be in the position I am.
I’m so grateful for all their love and support. As a second generation immigrant woman, I push myself to make my family and my ancestors proud.
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What advice would you tell your younger self? |
Don’t be afraid to start again.
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Thank you for the opportunity to serve in my home city and for my community!
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