Security Analyst Profile: Amanda Cantero Schilling

Security Analyst Profile: Amanda Cantero Schilling

Meet Amanda Cantero Schilling, a highly skilled cybersecurity analyst on a mission to fortify the defenses of Microsoft Defender Experts for XDR customers. As a vigilant guardian of digital estates, Amanda's role goes beyond mere surveillance. She actively monitors, triages incidents, and leads a team of hunters, ensuring a proactive stance against cyberthreats. Her commitment extends to swift response actions, stepping in on behalf of customers when the need arises. In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, Amanda stands as a stalwart protector, dedicated to maintaining the security and resilience of her clientele.

Why do you love being an analyst?

Amanda's enthusiasm for her role stems from the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of the work. The constant learning required to stay effective in the cybersecurity field is what she finds most intriguing. In Amanda's words, cybersecurity attracts individuals with a specific personality they crave knowledge and relish the opportunity to learn. Given the broad scope of the field and the necessity for a diverse skill set, staying ahead requires continuous effort and a genuine passion for the craft.

What did you do before becoming an analyst?

Before stepping into the shoes of a Security Analyst, Amanda had a diverse journey within the Information Security and Network Security realms. Her heart lies in the intricacies of Network Security, particularly between Layer 2 and Layer 3. Amanda reminisces about her days debugging VPN tunnels, showcasing her penchant for becoming hyper-focused on complex challenges.

What drives you to continue learning in this fast-evolving industry?

Amanda's drive to stay updated in the fast-paced cybersecurity landscape is fueled by her curious mind and a keen interest in observing the unfolding narrative. Drawing a parallel to watching a crime documentary, albeit at a slower pace, Amanda finds excitement in understanding the present and anticipating the future. Real-time engagement with customers provides a unique perspective, making each day in XDR an interesting dive into cybersecurity intricacies.

Any advice for those aspiring to enter the cybersecurity field?

Reflecting on her experience volunteering for CyberPatriot, a national youth cyber education program, Amanda offers valuable advice. For anyone looking to enter the cybersecurity field, she emphasizes that it's not just about the paycheck. There must be an intrinsic spark - a drive to consume knowledge, analyze, troubleshoot, seek answers, and share insights with others. The field demands substantial effort, and job satisfaction needs to go beyond monetary rewards.

Beyond technical skills, how do your strengths benefit customers in cybersecurity?

Amanda brings more than just technical skills to the table; her interpersonal qualities play a pivotal role. Her genuine love for connecting with people allows her to establish personal connections with customers. By understanding their stories, concerns, and needs, Amanda fosters relationships that provide valuable insights. She places great importance on these connections, ensuring that the work conducted contributes meaningfully to the success of her customers.

What's the most exciting development in the cybersecurity landscape today?

Amanda expresses a particular enthusiasm for the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its impact on cybersecurity tooling. Witnessing the integration of AI, such as Microsoft Copilot, she believes the possibilities are endless and is actively engaged in exploring the horizons of what's around the corner. Attending AI presentations, Amanda stays at the forefront of developments, eager to embrace the evolving landscape of cybersecurity.