Western student named first female university cyber ambassador

Left to Right: The Hon. Karen Andrews, Federal Minister for Industry, Science and Technology; Jason Routley, Cyber Ambassador; Emma Seaman, Cyber Ambassador; Michelle Price, CEO, AustCyber; The Hon. Damien Tudehope, NSW Minister for Finance and Small Business.

Western Sydney University student, Emma Seaman, has become the first female university cyber ambassador for the NSW Cyber Security Innovation Node — a nationally connected hub for cyber capability and innovation.

Emma, who is in her third year of the Bachelor of Cyber Security and Behaviour, will join a group of experts including academics and professionals in the Cyber Ambassador Program to mentor and inspire young people.

“I’m excited to be involved in a state-wide innovation that is bridging the skills gap in the industry and I’m looking forward to showing that women can play a significant role,” said Emma.

The 20-year-old Parramatta resident will encourage and promote study within STEM and cyber security by engaging with Western Sydney schools to share her experience and build awareness for career opportunities.

“I went to an all-girls high school where only around 15 students studied IT across the available units. Then in university, it was evident that the ratio of males to females studying technology-related degrees was at the same end of the scale, so I believe it’s really important to show that females can thrive within cyber security and STEM industries,” said Emma.

“There are so many opportunities for people within the cyber security industry, with the current skills gap and as cyber attacks increase, the demand for more people trained in this area grows.”

Emma is a member of Western Sydney University’s Women in Science and Engineering (WiSE) Program and has built her leadership skills through University programs including the Lead, Engage, Aspire, Develop (LEAD) program and The Academy.

“Being involved in a variety of programs at University provided me with the chance to engage in many new experiences. These programs have given me the confidence to participate in opportunities like this,” she said.

“Emma is an outstanding Ambassador who is already making her mark professionally at university and as an intern with a leading security firm. I have no doubt that she will have a positive influence on NSW high school students and other young people who may not otherwise consider careers in cyber security fields,” said Todd Williams FAICD, Director, NSW Cyber Security Innovation Node.

As an Ambassador, Emma will have the opportunity to connect with industry representatives and participate in hands-on cybersecurity and STEM programs.

ENDS

4 September 2019

Ali Sardyga, Senior Media Officer