Security Industry Association (SIA) Women in Security Forum (WISF) Power 100 honorees share their experiences as women in security and offer advice to others in the industry.

Uplifting others

In 1987, Women’s History Month was created to honor the contributions of women to American history throughout the month of March.

It’s a way to celebrate the achievements, leadership, courage, strength and love of women who have built America.

Historically, women in security were often behind the scenes as the primarily male-dominated industry grew.

But in 2018, the Security Industry Association (SIA) realized the critical contributions that women play and sought to change that narrative.

SIA formed the Women in Security Forum (WISF) to elevate the voices of women in the industry, create networking opportunities and promote the participation of women in all facets of security.

Fast forward almost seven years later, and this mission has only strengthened, adding the chance for the group to earn scholarships, be recognized on the Power 100 lists and attend events like LeadHER aimed at connecting these women in a supportive environment.

As we celebrate Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day, it’s important to share some of the insights from the women who have been a part of building the culture of support for others in the industry.

In this roundtable, you will hear from:

• Jessica Anderson, Regional Security Manager, Ford
• Carolyn McGrath, Global Senior Director, Fire & Security Services, Johnson Controls
• Rya Manners, Vice President, Marketing – North America, Prosegur Security
• Billie Jo Timm, Vice President, Customer Experience, dormakaba
• Christina Park, Global Account Manager, Axis Communications

They share some of their favorite parts about working in the industry, advice for a new generation of women in security coming in and the biggest lessons they’ve learned so far.

What is your favorite part about working in the security industry?

Rya Manners (RM): Honestly, working in the security industry feels like being part of an elite superhero team – minus the capes, of course.

There’s something really cool about knowing that what we do helps protect people and keeps the world turning safely.

Plus, it’s a space that’s constantly evolving and adapting to the latest challenges.

And let’s be real, the people in this industry?

They’re some of the best – smart, dedicated and willing to share a laugh even when the stakes are high.

It’s the perfect mix of purpose, innovation and a dash of adrenaline.

Billie Jo Timm (BJT): I have met several amazing and talented people in this industry.

Building relationships with customers, internal team members, sales team members, global peers, women in the security forums and so many other ways has been one of my favorite parts.

Carolyn McGrath (CM): My favorite part of working in the security industry is the profound sense of purpose that comes from helping to keep people and organizations safe.

The dynamic nature of the field inspires me to learn, innovate and grow.

Jessica Anderson (JA): Knowing that the work I do is critical to the advancement, reputation and longevity of every other industry.

How did you find inspiration to progress in your career? Did you have mentors? Any pivotal challenges or drives that helped you get to where you are today?

JA: My inspiration came from an internal drive to change the narrative and create opportunities for women in security.

I am committed to giving women in security a voice and a platform in spaces that were not originally designed for them.

I’ve had mentors of various ages, genders and backgrounds and I highly recommend seeking out mentors who are strategic, listen to your goals and push you to take the necessary steps to achieve them.

A defining challenge in my career was enduring prolonged bullying by a male colleague, being underpaid and often overlooked.

Despite these obstacles, I remained professional, tactful and resourceful, which ultimately led me to a role better aligned with my long-term goals.

CM: I have had many mentors throughout my career, some formal and many informal.

I am grateful for the guidance provided by those mentors who took the extra time in helping me to understand the industry, as well as different aspects of the business.

One pivotal mentor was a former boss who challenged me to think at a higher, more strategic level versus just focusing on tactical work.

Her guidance pushed me towards a different path in my career that led me into security product management.

RM: Having someone who believes in you, offers advice and pushes you out of your comfort zone has been a game-changer.

A good mentor isn’t just someone who tells you what to do; they ask the right questions, challenge you in all the best ways and give you the confidence to go for that big opportunity.

They’re the kind of people who hand you the map, but let you choose your own adventure.

What do you think the industry will look like for women in security in the next ten to 15 years?

RM: Over the past 12 years that I’ve been in security, I’ve seen a significant shift in the industry when it comes to women taking on key roles.

We’ve made incredible strides, but there’s still room for growth.

I believe the next ten to 15 years will bring even more opportunities as we continue to break down barriers, create inclusive environments and actively mentor and support the next generation of women in security as leaders.

It’s exciting to imagine a future where women not only have a seat at the table but are shaping the very direction of the industry.

Christina Park (CP): I am confident that the security industry will evolve toward being more inclusive and diverse by empowering more women in security leadership roles, alongside the proactive involvement of male allies who play a crucial role in nurturing this growth.

What advice do you have for younger women in security, wanting to grow their careers?

BJT: My biggest piece of advice is to be confident in your abilities and never underestimate your value.

This industry may have traditionally been male dominated, but that’s changing and your perspective is needed now more than ever.

Don’t shy away from opportunities, even if they seem out of reach – say yes, learn as you go and lean on mentors to guide you through.

Surround yourself with a strong network of supportive peers and leaders, and don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself.

Be resilient, stay curious and always be open to learning.

Your career growth is a journey and the more you invest in your development, the more doors you’ll open.

CP: I encourage younger women in security to seek out a mentor who can offer valuable guidance, serve as a support system and facilitate professional connections that will help advance their career.

Looking back on your career, what would you change or do differently?

RM: Looking back, I’d probably worry less and jump in faster.

Instead of overthinking every move like I was defusing a bomb, I’d just go for it.

Early on, I spent too much time second-guessing myself and trying to be “perfect” – but perfection doesn’t exist.

What I’ve learned is that growth happens when you take risks, even if you stumble along the way.

If I could do it differently, I’d remind my younger self to embrace the messiness and trust the process.

Nothing is the end of the world.

BJT: Looking back now, I wish I had taken a more balanced approach between work and family.

While I am grateful for the opportunities my career has provided and I believe my family is stronger because of it, I also missed many family events because of my choices.

I admire those that stay committed to putting family first.

CM: If I could change one thing about my career, I would have used my voice earlier and worry less about making mistakes.

I have learned that confidence and authenticity are key to driving change, innovation and inspiring others.

JA: I would have advocated for myself sooner and not allowed others’ influences to deter me from advancing due to age, experience or gender.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

RM: The best piece of advice I ever got was “Don’t take yourself too seriously, but take what you do seriously.” It’s been a game-changer.

The idea is, yes, work hard, give it everything you’ve got, but don’t let the pressure turn you into a robot.

Be human, make mistakes, learn from them and laugh at the ridiculous moments along the way.

It’s amazing how much easier everything becomes when you can step back, breathe and remind yourself why you’re doing what you’re doing – and that you’re allowed to enjoy the ride.

BJT: Never say never. Even when you think you can’t do something or didn’t think it was possible, you would be amazed at what you are capable of.

It is a great piece of advice and a mindset that has fueled my energy and decisions.

CP: Embracing the philosophy of staying committed to your decisions but being flexible in your approach.

This means having a clear end goal but staying open to using different methods to get there.

Adaptability will allow you to navigate challenges and seize new opportunities.

JA: What’s meant for you will be for you. Stand in that. Own that.

About the women in security

Jessica Anderson, a security professional with more than 15 years of experience, holds a Criminal Justice degree from Bethune-Cookman University.

She mentors through Winning Futures and is active in IOBSE and ASIS International. She was named to the 2024 SIA Women in Security Forum Power 100.

Christina Park is a Global Account Manager at Axis Communications, bringing over ten years of expertise to her role.

As a member of the SIA SupportHER and AmbassadHER subcommittees, she is dedicated to promoting diversity and empowering women in security.

Rya Manners is a seasoned marketing professional with nearly 20 years of experience, including over 13 in the security industry.

As Vice President of Marketing for Prosegur Security and Chair of the global ASIS NextGen Community, she is dedicated to advancing the security profession and mentoring future industry leaders.

Billie Jo Timm is the Vice President of Customer Experience for dormakaba North America, based in Indianapolis. She joined dormakaba in early 2021.

In 2022, Timm received the dormakaba CEO Award for implementing exceptional customer experience enhancements.

She was named by SIA to the Power 100 SIA Women in Security Forum in 2023.

Carolyn McGrath is a seasoned senior director-level business professional with over 20 years of experience in global services strategy, portfolio and innovation leadership, business transformation and change management within Fortune 500 organizations.

She has a strong engineering background complemented by an MBA and excels in driving strategic initiatives and fostering innovation.

This column was created in collaboration with the Security Industry Association (SIA) Women in Security Forum IlluminateHER Subcommittee to help elevate Power 100 honoree voices in the security industry.

This article was originally published in the special ISC West 2025 March edition of Security Journal Americas. To read your FREE digital edition, click here.