The Cyber Cowgirl™ Blog
Welcome to The Cyber Cowgirl™ Blog - Hannah’s archived collection of early morning thoughts related to cyber, defense, entrepreneurship, and professional development.
Join Hannah on this journey of discovery and discussion as we navigate the Digital Wild West together!
Challenging the Way You Think
Curiosity used to drive us — now, conformity too often defines us. In Challenging the Way You Think, Hannah Becker shares how a childhood lesson in letting go of obsession shaped her belief in cognitive diversity. True growth, she argues, comes from seeking new ideas, new people, and perspectives that make us uncomfortable.
SIGNAL Magazine - “Unlocking Potential: Empowering the Next Generation of Cyber Leaders Through Mentorship”
Hannah Becker’s latest article in SIGNAL Magazine, , co-authored with Lt. Col. Gilberto S. Perez, examines how mentorship can serve as a critical force multiplier in strengthening America’s cyber workforce. The piece explores the nation’s widening cybersecurity talent gap—an estimated 265,000 unfilled positions—and argues that closing this gap requires more than new training programs or certifications. Becker highlights mentorship as the “difference-maker” in developing confident, capable, and mission-ready cyber professionals. By pairing experienced leaders with emerging talent from diverse and nontraditional backgrounds, mentorship accelerates skill development, fosters resilience, and builds the human connections essential for national defense. Ultimately, the article calls on cyber professionals, educators, and policymakers to view mentorship not as an optional add-on, but as a national security imperative in the fight to secure America’s digital future.
Mirror, Mirror on the Wall: What Does Technology Say About Us All?
Explore how technology reflects—not causes—many of our societal challenges. This article examines the human behaviors behind digital tools, the ethical cost of distraction, and why real solutions require connection, responsibility, and values—not automation.
Don’t Let the Noise Distract You from Riding
Rodeo taught me how to focus under pressure—how to block out the chaos, trust my training, and ride with purpose. Whether you're in the arena or the boardroom, the distractions are real, and the stakes are high. In this post, I share hard-earned lessons on staying grounded, seeking honest feedback, and riding toward what truly matters. Because in the end, success isn’t about the noise around you—it’s about the grit to keep going through it.
Cryptology, Garden Parties, and Unconventional Trailblazers
At a charming garden party, a chance encounter with a framed letter honoring Agnes Driscoll—one of the most influential cryptologists of WWII—unveils a story of remarkable contributions hidden in plain sight. Known for her groundbreaking work in codebreaking, Driscoll’s legacy as a Navy cryptologist and cyber pioneer is a testament to the often-overlooked self-censorship of unconventional trailblazers in defense.
Navigating Chaos With Clarity
Navigating chaos is a defining trait of successful professionals. Setbacks are inevitable, but they don’t have to be the end of the story. With the right mindset and strategies, challenges can become opportunities for growth. Learn how to adapt, innovate, and turn adversity into a stepping stone for success.
Lessons Learned from the Rodeo Arena
The rodeo arena isn’t just about grit and glory—it’s a proving ground for life’s toughest lessons. From mastering skills over shortcuts to breaking the mold and thinking outside the box, the lessons I learned riding rodeo have shaped my career in profound ways. Whether in the saddle or the workplace, success comes to those who persevere, innovate, and dare to do things differently.
Episode 8 - Lt. Gen. Dana Atkins, USAF (Ret): Leadership Lesson from the Cockpit, C-Suite, and Capitol Hill
In this powerful episode of Tipping Spears, Lt. Gen. Dana Atkins, USAF (Ret.), shares his unique leadership journey, spanning from flying with the Thunderbirds to his role as the 9th President and CEO of the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA). Gen. Atkins offers invaluable insights on leadership, resilience, and advocacy, highlighting how disappointments can turn into opportunities and the importance of focusing on small actions done well. He also discusses the significance of "emulate vs. imitate" leadership strategies and the impact of collective advocacy. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and staying true to your goals in service to others.
Episode 7 - From Soldier to Statesman: Patrick J. Murphy on Leadership, Public Service, and National Security
Patrick J. Murphy has dedicated his life to service—as a soldier, the first Iraq War veteran elected to Congress, and the 32nd Under Secretary of the Army. In this episode, we discuss his journey, leadership insights, veteran advocacy, and the future of defense technology. From national security challenges to the power of bipartisanship, Patrick shares invaluable wisdom for the next generation of leaders.
Episode 5 - Forging Leaders: COL Ray Rottman, USAF (Ret) on Mentorship, Service, and Resilience
In this episode of Tipping Spears, COL Ray Rottman, USAF (Ret)—Executive Director, Leadership Strategist, and Military Education Advocate—shares his journey across military service, private industry, and the nonprofit sector. He discusses the power of mentorship in shaping military careers, the resilience of military families, and his leadership at the Association of Military Colleges and Schools of the United States (AMCSUS). Ray offers battle-tested leadership insights, explores how experienced professionals can develop the next generation of defense and national security leaders, and emphasizes the importance of service as a force multiplier. Tune in for a compelling discussion on mentorship, career growth, and the leadership mindsets that build strong, resilient teams.
Episode 1- Leading Through Complexity: Insights from COL Scottie Moore, USA (Ret)
In this episode of Leading Through Complexity, we sit down with COL Scottie Moore, USA (Ret.), a seasoned strategist and training expert with over 30 years of military leadership experience. From managing multi-billion-dollar defense initiatives to training hundreds of thousands of soldiers, Scottie shares real-world insights on leadership, innovation, and adapting to rapid technological change. We explore the impact of AI and unmanned systems on national security, the power of transformative leadership, and career strategies for both aspiring service members and veterans transitioning to civilian roles. Whether you're a leader in uniform or the boardroom, this conversation is packed with actionable takeaways you won’t want to miss!