Lalisha Hurt has built a career at the crossroads of technology, leadership, and advocacy. Over two decades, she has become a trusted advisor in cybersecurity and digital resilience, helping organizations and federal agencies navigate some of the most complex challenges of the digital age.

Her journey began in 1999 with an INROADS internship at Capital One, where she served as a Data Analyst. For Lalisha, the experience was transformational. As she shared in The Cyber Guild’s See It To Be It Spotlight, “As a first-generation college graduate, INROADS provided me with C.L.E.A.R.—communication, leadership, empathy, analytical, and relationship-building skills that I have leveraged in every role throughout my career.”

Those foundational lessons gave her the confidence to pursue new opportunities, even when they stretched her beyond her comfort zone. In the See It To Be It Spotlight, Lalisha described how being asked to lead a cyber team in 2012—at first an unexpected pivot—ultimately launched her into the cybersecurity field. That challenge became the defining arc of her career, eventually leading to executive leadership roles at General Electric, GDIT, and Capital One.

Previously, as Industry Advisor for the Federal Public Sector at Splunk, Lalisha partnered with government agencies to strengthen digital resilience. She was also a published thought leader, public speaker, and adjunct professor in Carnegie Mellon University’s CISO Executive Program, where she shared her expertise with the next generation of cyber leaders.

Her influence extends beyond the workplace. In 2023, Lalisha was a SANS Institute Difference Maker Award Finalist for Diversity Champion of the Year, recognition of her commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in tech. Through mentorship, teaching, and board service, she continues to empower others to pursue careers in cybersecurity.

Drawing from her own journey, Lalisha encourages INROADS students to remember: “Build your network and connect with senior leaders.” For her, community and mentorship have been central to every stage of growth—and now, she is dedicated to paying it forward.