Gina Mihajlovska, Cyber Security Architecture Integration and Engagement Manager, shares her remarkable career journey in technology, with a particular focus on her experiences as a woman in the cybersecurity field. Her story is one of resilience, strategic navigation, and a commitment to paving the way for future generations of women in technology.
"I've had a fulfilling career and I'm very grateful for it. Now, I want to help create a world where more women can experience the same."
Overcoming challenges in male-dominated industries
Gina's path was not without its hurdles. Starting in community development, she transitioned to telecommunications when funding for community development dried up. In telecommunications, she ascended from an entry-level position to an executive role, often finding herself as the only woman in the room. She faced significant challenges, including gender bias and the assumption that women could only occupy certain roles but never that of leadership roles.
Gina recalled an instance early in her career where her ideas were dismissed solely because of her gender. "I would present an idea in a meeting, and it would be ignored. Then, a male colleague would suggest the exact same thing minutes later, and suddenly it was considered brilliant," she shared. This experience illuminated the pervasive gender biases she had to navigate.
One notable incident occurred during a high-stakes boardroom meeting where she confronted an engineer who repeatedly ignored her questions. With calm determination, Gina addressed the issue head-on, establishing boundaries and demonstrating her authority. "I said, 'Can you tell me why you keep turning your back to me? Do you have a problem with what I'm asking?'" she recounted. “The room just went completely silent.” Gina explains it was a very challenging moment and the person never spoke to her again, but she felt the need to tackling gender bias head on. This formed Gina’s approach of addressing it directly and setting clear expectations for respectful interactions.
Strategies for success
Gina employed several strategies to thrive in a male-dominated environment. Building vital relationships within the organisation was key to her success. She cultivated connections with executives and their assistants, ensuring she had the necessary support to navigate complex corporate hierarchies.
"You have to build those really vital relationships," she emphasised. "It's not just about the relationships though; you also need to be seen as someone who can be trusted to deliver and someone that can be turned to for advice."
Gina also emphasised the importance of being seen as a reliable and trustworthy professional. By consistently delivering results and providing valuable advice, she earned the respect and support of her colleagues. Her ability to advocate for herself and other women in the organisation helped create a more inclusive and respectful workplace.
Leaving a lasting legacy
Gina's career in technology is marked by significant achievements, including the design of next-generation networks and the decommissioning of outdated IT systems. Her work laid the groundwork for transformation and modernisation of these technologies.
"One of the things I did was to move out of the traditional places where women used to work and into network engineering, where I spent three years designing five broadband networks."
In reflecting on her career, Gina is focused on leaving a legacy of empowerment and support for women in technology. She plans to pursue a PhD in how liveable cities are developed and supported by artificial intelligence. There is a huge security overlay that is required to protect the data that will be transiting the infrastructures of the city’s future. Through her involvement with organisations like AWSN (Australian Women in Security Network), she aims to address the challenges women face in technology and security, fostering a more inclusive and supportive community.
She plans to leave a legacy for her daughter. “I am proud to say that my daughter has evolved into a mature and independent woman who is embarking on post graduate studies in social work focused on supporting those traumatised by war and other horrific experiences. She is following in the historic footsteps and legacy left to us by the woman in our family who survived the horrific circumstance of war with strength and compassion,” says Gina.
Mentoring the next generation
Gina has proudly and enthusiastically mentored emerging cyber professionals as part of the industry-based learning program for stand-out university students. As part of her legacy, she wants to ensure a multitude of students have access to a mentor willing to show them the ropes both within Cyber and office environments in general.
Her passion for the program is reflected in students’ experiences at Transurban, with Business and Information Technology student Joshua reflecting on the rounded mentorship he received from Gina. “I feel that she truly embodies this philosophy of continuous improvement and resilience,” he wrote. “Her unwavering commitment to personal and professional growth has greatly influenced my own development.”
Gina is passing on the baton to the next generation of IT and cyber professionals during their mentorships, ensuring they complete their program equipped for the challenges of the modern workplace.
Advice for aspiring women in technology
Gina's advice for women aspiring to enter the technology field is both practical and inspiring. She emphasises the importance of building relationships and networks within the industry, as these connections can provide crucial support and opportunities.
"How you get treated is up to you," she advises. "I can't change the world, but I can make decisions about how I'm going to do it for me. Stand up for yourself by respecting what you offer and keeping true to yourself."
She also encourages women to set boundaries and confront bias directly when it arises. "By setting boundaries, you're creating space for others to have the confidence to speak up as well," Gina said.
Finally, Gina highlights the need for continuous learning and adaptation. The technology field is ever evolving, and staying informed about the latest developments is essential for success. Her career demonstrates that with resilience, strategic thinking, and a commitment to excellence, women can thrive in technology and security.
"I've had a fulfilling career and I'm very grateful for it," she reflected. "Now, I want to help create a world where more women can experience the same."
Gina's journey is a testament to the power of determination and the impact one individual can have on an entire industry. Her story will undoubtedly inspire and empower the next generation of women in technology.
