CyberTalk: From Microsoft Intern to Security Program Manager

🎙️ What does a Security Program Manager at Microsoft actually do?

Many cybersecurity professionals begin their journey imagining careers as analysts, engineers, or consultants. Security Program Management offers another path—one that combines technical understanding, problem solving, communication, and collaboration to help security teams deliver meaningful impact.

Join us for a live CyberTalk conversation with Brenda Leyva, Program Manager on Microsoft's Microsoft Offensive Research in Security Engineering (MORSE) team, as she shares the experiences, communities, and opportunities that shaped her journey into cybersecurity.

As a Peruvian American, first-generation college graduate, and active leader in organizations including WiCyS and SHPE, Brenda has built her career through internships, mentorship, conferences, and community engagement.

During this session, we'll discuss:

🔹 Brenda's journey from computer science student to Microsoft intern and full-time employee
🔹 What Security Program Managers do on a daily basis
🔹 Collaboration between security teams, developers, and stakeholders
🔹 The importance of communication as a technical skill
🔹 Tools and workflows used in program management
🔹 Time management strategies for balancing work and personal life
🔹 The role community and mentorship play in career growth
🔹 Advice for students and early-career professionals entering cybersecurity

Whether you're exploring cybersecurity careers, interested in program management, or looking to understand how community can influence professional growth, this conversation will provide practical insights and real-world experiences from someone actively working in the field.

Featured Guest

Brenda Leyva

Security Program Manager, Microsoft

Brenda is a Program Manager at Microsoft on the Microsoft Offensive Research in Security Engineering (MORSE) team. Prior to joining Microsoft full-time, she interned with the Workload Security team under Azure Edge + Platform Windows Security.

A Peruvian American and first-generation college graduate from the University of Illinois Chicago, Brenda actively contributes to organizations including SHPE and Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS). She previously served as President of her university's WiCyS chapter and currently serves as the WiCyS Latinas Director of Community Outreach.

Brenda is passionate about supporting students and early-career professionals pursuing careers in cybersecurity and technology through mentorship, outreach, and community engagement.

Host

Uljana Sejko

Educational Resources Director, Raíces Cyber Org

About Raíces Cyber

Raíces Cyber is an international nonprofit organization focused on increasing representation in cybersecurity through education, mentorship, workforce development, and community support. The organization provides educational opportunities, career resources, and networking experiences for students, career changers, and cybersecurity professionals across multiple career stages.