Cybersecurity Practitioners with Purpose

Building for the future

These days, when Pailen isn't focused on running UMGC's Center for Security Studies, she is doing important work with her consultancy.

In the spring, Pailen participated in a STEM festival event for Girl Scouts of the USA, part of a relationship cultivated over the space of years helping instill tech know-how in some of the youngest learners.

"I supported the Girl Scouts with getting cybersecurity badges," she said.

Pailen noted that there are ways to make complex subjects understandable, using relatable thoughts such as keeping toys, friends, and family safe.

Tremont-who went on to earn a Doctor of Science in Cybersecurity from Capitol Technology University-is also dedicated to enabling those on their own journeys.

"Encouraging and helping others along the way is the right thing to do," she said. "I've had mentors and wonderful leaders, including from UMGC. People opened doors and gave me guidance when they didn't have to, so I try to give back."

Life-long learning

Cybersecurity and entrepreneurship both demand continual learning, a forte of UMGC, its students, alumni, and staff.

"The entrepreneurial side takes a lot," Pailen said. "There's much to learn and I respect the people who have done it well."

Pailen bridges the gap between entrepreneurship, and the potential of those that go through the cybersecurity program at UMGC, while also expanding her own knowledge.

"I stay around UMGC because there are always opportunities to learn," she said, "I learned a lot with cybersecurity, developing the programs, and now I'm in the mode of learning a lot about AI."

Tremont rejoined the Air Force as a reserve officer and recently served at the Pentagon. She is also persistently refining and developing her skills.

"Even in the military, I'm still in school and they're teaching me leadership. Leadership and education are skills that should be ever growing," she said. "You should be a lifelong learner."

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