Women of Ontinue: Meet Shivani Bisht
At Ontinue, we know that cybersecurity isn’t just about technology – it’s about the people behind it. In honor of International Women’s Day, we’re celebrating the incredible women of Ontinue who are shaping the future of cybersecurity. Throughout this series, you’ll hear directly from them about their career journeys, the challenges they’ve tackled, the advice they have for aspiring professionals, and what excites them most about this industry.
Each week, we’ll spotlight a different woman in cybersecurity, sharing her unique perspective and leadership. Join us as we highlight the voices driving change, innovation, and excellence in our field.
This week, we’re spotlighting Shivani Bisht, Associate Cyber Defender.
What does a typical day in your role at Ontinue look like?
My days are fast-paced, constantly monitoring alerts, analyzing threats, and creating reports. I also collaborate with my team in meetings to tackle challenges together. Occasionally, I engage with customers on high-severity cases, which keeps things exciting as no two days are the same.
What is one challenge you’ve faced in your cybersecurity career, and how did you overcome it?
Self-doubt was a big challenge. I’ve switched career paths—from design back to cybersecurity—and initially felt overwhelmed by how much there was to learn. But I realized that progress doesn’t have to be fast; it just has to be steady. Comparison is the thief of joy, and in such a rapidly evolving field, you don’t need to know everything at once. Taking it one step at a time helped me build confidence and stay focused on my goals.
What advice would you give to women who are considering a career in cybersecurity?
Start small and don’t overthink it. Cybersecurity can seem overwhelming, but taking the first step is what matters. Finding a mentor is also key—it’s easy to get lost in the noise, and the right guidance can keep you on track. Most importantly, don’t let fear of failure stop you. It’s okay to try and fail; what matters is that you try.
Is there a person—mentor, leader, or peer—who has had a significant impact on your career? How did they influence you?
Absolutely. I have amazing colleagues and friends who keep me motivated and help me push through challenges. Their passion and expertise inspire me every day. Tech can be exhausting, but having a strong support system—people who understand the work and make it fun—has made all the difference.
What excites you the most about the future of cybersecurity and your role in it?
The fast pace of change keeps me motivated. Threats are getting smarter, and staying ahead of them is an exciting challenge. As a woman in cybersecurity, I’m also excited about breaking down barriers and bringing fresh perspectives to an industry that thrives on innovation. In my role as a SOC Analyst, I love seeing how automation and AI are transforming security operations, making detection and response even stronger. With so much evolution, there’s always something new to learn—and that’s what keeps me engaged.
Let’s build the future of cybersecurity together!
