Scholar Spotlight: How Dr. Natalie Maggitt Transformed Her Career With Support From WISP

WISP scholarships change lives, open doors, and strengthen the future of the security and privacy workforce. Few stories illustrate this more powerfully than that of Dr. Natalie Maggitt, an Information Security and Risk Engineer whose journey into cybersecurity is rooted in resilience, purpose, and the transformative power of community support.

A Nontraditional Path with Extraordinary Impact

Before stepping into cybersecurity, Natalie spent more than 18 years building a career in human resources. Her deep understanding of people, systems, and organizational growth became the foundation for the next chapter of her career.

Four years ago, she joined Cardinal Health, where she quickly became an important contributor to the Cybersecurity Maturity and Controls team. There, she improved how critical security metrics were measured and used across the enterprise and helped refine controls that aligned with organizational risk priorities.

Today, she focuses on security awareness and training, ensuring that employees and leaders across the company, including newly acquired businesses, have practical and accessible ways to build strong security habits.

Natalie’s professional development journey is equally inspiring. She earned her Security Plus certification, completed the Cyversity Fundamentals of GRC course, and is a current member of the ITSMF 2025 and 2026 Management Academy. This experience is expanding her leadership skills and strengthening her influence in the IT and security community.

Where WISP Made a Difference

In 2021 and 2022, Natalie received a WISP scholarship to pursue her Security Plus certification. The financial support covered study materials, the textbook, and course registration fees, but the impact reached far deeper.

Coming from a nontechnical background, the scholarship gave her more than resources. It gave her confidence.

Natalie shared that the support helped her show up in a competitive field filled with in-demand professionals. It also connected her to a community of people who understood her path, offered guidance, and reinforced that she was never alone in her transition.

"WISP and the Share The Mic In Cyber experience were pivotal moments that empowered my transition into cybersecurity, expanding my confidence, network, and sense of belonging in the field."

For Natalie, this community was invaluable. It was a reminder that belonging can shape a career just as powerfully as technical skill.

Service and Leadership Beyond Her Role

Natalie’s commitment to the cybersecurity and technology communities extends far beyond her corporate role. She serves on the board of EmpowHer Cybersecurity and the BDPA Northern Virginia Chapter, supporting initiatives that uplift underrepresented voices in tech.

She is also the founder and CEO of iThriveHer, a nonprofit dedicated to creating S T E A M opportunities for girls. Through this work, Natalie invests in the next generation of diverse innovators and leaders, helping ensure that the cybersecurity field reflects the communities it serves.

Her leadership demonstrates the ripple effect of WISP’s investment. When one woman is supported, entire communities benefit.

A Message for Donors and Sponsors

Natalie is clear about the role donors play in creating pathways into cybersecurity.

"My successful transition into cybersecurity and continued achievements in the field are directly attributed to the invaluable support provided by WISP’s donors and sponsors. This support has expanded my skills, shaped a meaningful career path, and created similar opportunities for countless other WISP scholarship recipients. Thank you for all you do."

Every contribution, whether from a corporate sponsor, individual donor, or foundation, fuels real careers, strengthens the cybersecurity industry, and builds a more inclusive future.

Staying Connected to the WISP Community

Natalie continues to stay connected to WISP as an active podcast listener, newsletter subscriber, and enthusiastic supporter of WISP’s work. She looks forward to attending local events in the DC metro area and remains deeply committed to advancing women and underrepresented groups in security and privacy.

Why Your Support Matters

Natalie’s story shows what is possible when talent is met with opportunity. WISP scholarships help professionals gain credentials, build confidence, connect with the community, and step into roles that strengthen the entire security and privacy ecosystem.

Your support ensures that more women like Natalie can break into the field, advance their careers, and become leaders who shape a safer and more inclusive world.

When you support WISP you are truly fueling a movement.