As the head of network and information systems’ security at Luxembourg’s national institute for regulation (ILR), Becker plays a critical role in Luxembourg’s cybersecurity space.
The ILR is the country’s single point of contact for the Network and Information Security (NIS) directive that aims to secure essential services like energy and transport, drinking water, healthcare, digital infrastructures, and telecom.
“On the other hand, being a female in this domain gives you more visibility compared to a male because there are not so many females. So it can also be an advantage,” says Sheila Becker.
The PhD graduate in computer sciences and founding member of the Women Cyber Force (WCF) of Luxembourg has also worked in the telecom sector at the ILR and previously was the head of the cyberdefence team in the Luxembourg armed forces, shortly after which she was seconded to the directorate of defence. Although the flexibility of the field first attracted her, it was the security aspect of tech that appealed to her the most.
“Security’s important to me. It’s my nature to be prepared for the worst but hope for the best.” Working in a male-dominated sector may have its downsides, but overall, Becker says her experience has been very positive.
Key facts about Becker and WCF
Specialisation: Cybersecurity
Role model: François Thill, director of cybersecurity at the economy ministry
Field of study: Computer science (PhD)
Most recent training: Risk assessment in aviation
Year of creation of WCF: 2021
No. of WCF members: 42