The Gateway: Resources for Women in Security
Our mission is not only to tell the stories of women shaping the security industry — but to help more women see themselves in it.
This page is designed to connect you with actionable tools, upcoming events, and educational resources to explore or advance a career in physical security, cybersecurity, corporate intelligence, emergency response, and beyond. Whether you’re just starting out, considering a transition, or mentoring someone else, these resources are a starting point.
The Security Circle Podcast
Security Circle is the first-ever podcast from IFPO — the International Foundation for Protection Officers.
This show is all about supporting front-line security professionals. We cover real conversations around training, career growth, mental health, and the challenges security teams face every day. Whether you're on the front lines or part of the wider security community, Security Circle brings you insights, resources, and stories that matter.
Featured Videos
Watch select interviews, behind-the-scenes clips, and conference talks from the documentary’s cast and contributors.
Career Exploration
Security Industry Career Pathways Guide
This comprehensive guide, developed by McKinley Advisors, outlines two key sides of the security field:
Practitioners – those working in roles such as cyber analysts, investigators, or physical security professionals.
Suppliers – those supporting the industry through services, products, and strategy.
It includes sample career paths, required skills, and tips for building a future in this evolving profession.
Upcoming events
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Inational Foundation for Protection Officers (IFPO) Annual Conference 2025
Date: July 16–17, 2025
Location: Denver, Colorado, USA
Description: Brings together security professionals for networking, training, and discussions on key issues affecting frontline officers and managers. -
Security Journal Americas (SJA) Leaders in Security Conference 2025
Date: July 17, 2025
Location: Chicago, Illinois, USA
Description:A high-level business forum that gathers 120 of the region's most senior security leaders for networking and sharing industry insights. -
Black Hat USA 2025
Date: August 2–7, 2025
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
Description: A leading information security event offering technical training, briefings on the latest research, and extensive networking opportunities with industry professionals. -
DEF CON 33
Date: August 8–11, 2025
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
Description: One of the world's largest hacker conventions featuring talks, workshops, and competitions covering various aspects of cybersecurity and hacker culture. -
National Homeland Security Conference 2025
Date: August 25–28, 2025
Location: Washington, D.C., USA
Description: Brings together professionals in homeland security, law enforcement, and emergency management to explore emerging trends and new technologies. -
ASIS LATAM 2025
Date: August 25–26, 2025
Location: Mexico City, Mexico
Description: Provides education in both Spanish and English, focusing on the latest trends in security while offering networking opportunities and industry best practices. -
Global Security Exchange (GSX) 2025
Date: September 29 – October 1, 2025
Location: New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
Description: A premier event where security professionals access global security tactics, trends, and insights, and explore new strategies within the ASIS community. -
ISC² Security Congress 2025
Date: October 28–30, 2025
Location: Nashville, Tennessee, USA
Description: An annual flagship event that offers educational sessions, workshops, and extensive networking opportunities for cybersecurity professionals.
Advisory Board & Industry Connections
We’ve compiled a curated list of advisory groups, associations, and industry organizations supporting women in security. These links offer everything from mentorship programs to scholarships, training opportunities, and leadership communities.
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Black Cybersecurity Association
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Cyversity
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(ISC) 2
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ISSA
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IAPP
