22% of security teams are women, visibility and culture matter

In 2026, research suggests women account for about 22% of security teams on average, according to ISC2, underscoring that representation remains uneven even as progress continues. The article from SOCRadar argues that the cybersecurity career ladder is about more than certs and promotions, emphasising confidence in technical rooms, visibility for behind-the-scenes impact, and resilience after mistakes.

It highlights that in practice, career growth is shaped by subtle assumptions and the need for cultures that reward outcomes rather than stereotypes. Visibility is framed as a skill, with practical steps like pairing strong execution with clear updates and measurable wins to make impact legible. The piece also stresses the importance of support systems, including calendar discipline, routines to protect energy, and mentorship across teams, to sustain high performance in demanding roles.

It notes that March 8 is a day to listen to these experiences, and that when women share them openly inside organisations, it signals a culture that respects people as well as outcomes.