Alisa Alijeva joined Pulsant in 2023 as part of the company's latest graduate programme. She quickly cemented her passion for cybersecurity on her placement in the cyber and networking team and has since taken a role there as Junior Network Security Engineer.
Tell us a little about yourself...
My interest in technology was largely inspired by my older brother who was my role model from a young age. He encouraged me to be curious about how things work. Whether it was taking apart old computers or gadgets or even showing me how to install games, he made technology seem like an exciting world to dive into. His enthusiasm was contagious and it sparked my own passion for tech. That early influence from him is I think what ultimately led me to choose a degree in CyberSecurity with Networking at university. In my final year, I came across Pulsant's graduate scheme and was immediately drawn to the opportunities in security that it could offer me. It felt like the perfect fit for my career aspirations."
What does your current role involve?
As a Junior Network Security Engineer, my primary responsibility is to protect our clients' network equipment from vulnerabilities. I monitor for potential threats, apply security updates, and conduct daily cyber checks. It's a challenging but incredibly rewarding role. I've only been with the company for a year, yet even at this early stage, I've had the opportunity to work closely with the team on developing solutions to automate existing processes to improve overall workflow efficiency.
I love knowing that I'm playing a crucial role in safeguarding our clients' data. It's a huge responsibility, but it's also very rewarding. I can honestly say I love coming to work every day.
What do you enjoy most about working at Pulsant?
Being part of a fantastic team. Everyone here is incredibly helpful and there are plenty of opportunities to learn and grow. The culture here places real emphasis on career development with opportunities to earn certifications and participate in upcoming projects. It's not just about sticking to our specific roles within our teams; we're encouraged to get involved in projects that have a broader impact across the company. I've been given the chance to cross-train with the Cyber Operations team, which not only broadens my skill set but also strengthens the entire team's ability to manage both external and internal security challenges.
How has working here changed your perspective on the tech industry?
I've come to appreciate how crucial it is to be proactive and stay ahead of emerging threats and how continuous learning is key to that. I've also realised that maintaining a secure environment isn't just about the technology – it involves a lot of collaboration, communication and strategic thinking across the entire business.
What's the most unexpected skill you've developed since joining the company?
I've definitely honed my ability to perform well under pressure. Cybersecurity can be a high-stakes field, so it's important to be able to think quickly and make informed decisions.
Tech has a historical reputation for being male-dominated. Is this how you have found it, and how can it change that perception?
While it's true that the tech industry has traditionally been male-dominated, I've noticed positive changes and efforts to create a more inclusive environment. In my experience, I've found that more companies, including Pulsant, are actively working to encourage diversity and support individuals of all backgrounds. Personally, I've felt welcomed and supported in my role.
I think that the technology industry can make itself more attractive to women by promoting more visible female role models and leaders. Personally, I find it incredibly inspiring to see women in leadership roles. For example, the person I look up to most is my manager, Jennifer. Her journey to becoming a manager in a predominantly male-dominated field is truly motivating. She serves as a fantastic role model, not just for women in tech, but for everyone.
I believe it's crucial to highlight the wide range of opportunities in tech, emphasising that this is a field where diverse perspectives can thrive and drive innovation.
What are your career aspirations?
In my career, I hope to continue growing my skills in Cyber and Network security, working towards more senior technical positions and eventually take on leadership roles where I can mentor others and contribute to building more inclusive teams. I'm also looking forward to working on challenging projects that push the boundaries of what's possible in the tech industry and being part of a company that values continuous learning and development.