The 2018 Rising Stars of the Profession: Karen Correa

Karen Correa is a different kind of IT specialist. For one thing, she focuses on cybersecurity. For another thing, she recognizes that cybersecurity is not just an IT challenge; it's bigger than that. It's an overarching business-risk issue. In a field that is ever-evolving, Correa is helping to elevate cybersecurity to its proper role of enabler of strategic business objectives. Correa's approach to cybersecurity has made her EY's global solutions lead for cyber-risk metrics and dashboard.

The world as we know it is changing so rapidly, she says. "We're at the forefront of some very cool, innovative disruptive technologies that are impacting every sector," Correa says. "It is such an exciting time to be part of consulting. I am having a direct impact, helping our clients transform their business and secure their operations against a fast-evolving universe of information-security risks. I truly feel I am helping build a better and more secure working world."

But Correa doesn't stop there. She's also a leader in EY's Women in Cyber and Professional Women's Network. What's the key to her success? Hard work, she says.

"I like to give what I do my 100 percent. I am determined to constantly learn, take on new challenges and push myself outside of my comfort zone," Correa says.

For all the accolades she's received, she says she's proud of the reputation she's built over her 12 years with EY. "I have built a strong brand and I've  helped deliver large transformational projects for clients," she says. "I helped to develop internal methodologies around cybersecurity programs and reporting that are issues-based and solve real client needs. What I am most proud of, though, is when I receive feedback on how I have helped a colleague grow, or provided guidance during a challenging situation."