At SPS, Lauren...
- Reevaluated her career goals
- Moved beyond systems engineering
- Grew her knowledge of digital technology
- Learned cyber, data, legal and financials
- Advanced to an exciting new position
What was the deciding moment that led you to Columbia SPS Technology Management?
I was working at NASA performing systems engineering for the international space station. I realized that I didn’t have the credentials to advance in my career. I was introduced to the program through Dr. Langer (Director of the Center of Technology Management at Columbia), who helped me evaluate my career goals. He said, ‘If you ever want to be at the executive level, this program is for you.’
Did that advice play out in your career?
Absolutely. I transitioned into the oil and gas industry and, thanks to the program, advanced my career. I was recently appointed to the role of Digital Security and Risk Officer, Global Projects Organization at BP.
What aspects of the program did you find most compelling?
To be honest, I am not the conventional tech professional. I would encourage others like me to explore this program, because it gives you both respect and knowledge of the various aspects of technology—cyber, data, legal and financials. I even delved into entertainment technology for my Masters project…things like virtual and augmented reality in gaming for learning. This is helpful in oil and gas because we spend a lot of money on training.
Tell us about your role in cybersecurity.
The program doesn’t only focus on preventing attacks, because that would be unrealistic. You have 20,000 attacks coming a day. It teaches you how to manage risk, and makes sure that we as CISOs (Chief Information Security Officers), or potential CISOs are equipped to think beyond checklists, scans or security reporting. The program helps you understand how to mitigate risk. And you learn from the best. My mentor was Mark A. Stone, system CIO of Texas A&M. He’s been a huge support for me. Such mentorship is one of the reasons I chose this program.
