I was honored to join the GRC 2024 Conference presented last month by ISACA and Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) for a panel discussion, “Leveraging Neurodiversity: Strategic Advantages in GRC.” Moderated by Tairi Pérez, senior manager – conferences, at The Institute of Internal Auditors Inc., we were in a packed room of eager governance, risk management, compliance and cybersecurity professionals looking to learn the benefits of employing neurodivergent individuals.
Julie Dotson-Shaffer Pearce, senior manager, information technology compliance at AHM, and Rex Johnson, executive director, cybersecurity consulting, at CAI, were my fellow panelists for an engaging conversation about how organizations can not only welcome and create an inclusive workplace for neurodiverse talent, but benefit from the perspectives and innovations that are brought to the table.
The cybersecurity industry thrives on advancements, analytics and meticulous attention to detail—qualities that neurodivergent individuals may possess. So, when IT auditors and cybersecurity experts constantly monitor the latest in cyberattacks and the shifts in the cyber landscape, it’s important to recognize the contributions neurodiverse minds can bring to the table.
Embracing Neurodiversity: Personal Journeys and Abilities
We set the stage by explaining how we were all neurodivergent and what our personal journeys looked like. Every member of the panel has had to navigate a world designed for the neurotypical. Our journey of masking our differences, navigating challenges, recognizing our strengths, and ultimately channeling our abilities to progress in our careers highlights the untapped potential within the neurodiverse community.
It’s important to understand what we mean when we say neurodiversity. The term neurodiversity encompasses a range of neurological differences such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, dyslexia and others. Neurodivergent individuals may exhibit strengths that are highly beneficial in cybersecurity and tech roles, such as pattern recognition, logical reasoning and a persistent focus on complex tasks.
The panel agreed that in the battle against cyber threats, the abilities of neurodivergent individuals can be a game-changer. These skills in analytical thinking and problem-solving are invaluable assets when contributing to complex industries such as cybersecurity and GRC.
Implementing Neurodiversity Programs: A Blueprint for Success
Understanding the value of neurodiverse talent in cybersecurity and governance, the question became “How do we effectively integrate this talent into our teams?”
We discussed that with the right roles and the right support, neurodivergent individuals can greatly enhance an organization’s capabilities. This support may consist of mentorship, quiet working accommodations, and clear and direct language. Establishing a neurodiversity employment program can alleviate common hiring difficulties and empower neurodivergent associates to further develop a sense of self-assurance and autonomy. Such programs can pave the way for sustainable, rewarding and impactful professional journeys.
The final piece of our session was dedicated to the practical implementation of these programs. We talked about how a great way to start can be to pilot the program within your organization. This is one way to test your organization’s structure and figure out what improvements can be made, or what accommodations can be offered to create a more inclusive workplace for neurodiverse talent to thrive. With the assistance of neurodiversity-certified professionals, business strategies can be enriched by the capabilities and skills of neurodiverse talent—and in the ever-changing world of cybersecurity and governance, this can mean better safeguards never before seen to protect company assets.
The Future of Cybersecurity: Diverse Minds Tackling Complex Challenges
As we stand at the threshold of a new era in cybersecurity, it’s clear that the inclusion of neurodivergent professionals is a strategic advantage. The cybersecurity and GRC landscapes are rapidly evolving, and it demands a workforce that is equally dynamic and diverse. These industries may benefit from neurodiverse talent including more resilient and innovative teams. We are not only opening doors for an underutilized community but also strengthening our defenses with various perspectives and skills.
About the author: Anthony Pacilio is recognized domestically and internationally as an expert in neurodiversity employment and currently serves as Vice President, Neurodiverse Solutions at CAI. Pacilio specializes in advancing neurodiversity programs and leads the expansion efforts of CAI Neurodiverse Solutions.