In a world often quick to stereotype, Betta Lyon Delsordo stands out as a beacon of positive change, rewriting the rulebook for what it means to be a hacker. Far from the dimly lit basements and shadowy figures of popular imagination, Betta is an ‘ethical hacker,’ using her formidable skills to protect organizations from cyber threats. Her employer, OnDefend, literally hires her to “hack them,” then teaches them how to secure themselves. It’s a career that’s smart, collaborative, and, as Betta enthusiastically shares, seriously fun.
Betta’s journey began humbly, learning to code from YouTube videos as a teenager in small-town Montana. She faced an uphill battle, navigating a tech world often perceived as ‘for boys.’ From being one of the few girls in her high school tech classes to enduring a misogynistic college tutor, Betta persevered with unwavering determination. A pivotal moment came during middle school when she won an iPad Touch, sparking her curiosity to experiment and find ‘bugs.’ Her passion truly ignited at 15, participating in the Technovation challenge, where she and her friends designed an app to connect people in rural Montana with mental health support. This experience, she recalls, was less about the code and more about the invaluable connection to a mentor – a woman in technology who showed her what was possible.
Today, Betta is paying that kindness forward. She actively mentors girls in the same Technovation challenge, sharing her expertise and pointing them to free online coding resources. Her mission is rooted in a powerful belief: “Technology is power right now – it’s money, it’s influence. Those are all things that women in most societies lack.” She challenges the narrow stereotypes of hackers, encouraging girls to embrace their unique strengths and realize that a tech career is more than possible, it’s a pathway to empowerment and positive impact. Being an ethical hacker, she reminds us, means you get to help people, solve puzzles, and find genuine joy in protecting others.
The 508 Takeaway
Betta’s story beautifully illustrates how kindness, perseverance, and a mindful approach to our passions can create a ripple effect of good. By choosing a path of ethical hacking, she embodies the principle of using one’s skills to protect and uplift. Her dedication to mentoring, despite the challenges she faced, shows us the profound joy found in empowering others and breaking down barriers. It’s a powerful reminder that when we act with intention and generosity, we not only achieve our own goals but also light the way for countless others to find their purpose and make a positive difference in the world.
This story was originally reported by Oliver Balch. You can read the full original article here.
