Deborah Wheeler, CISO, Delta Air Lines

An accomplished IT leader with over 25 years of experience in cyber security, risk management and data privacy.
Navigating Challenges & Overcoming Systemic Barriers
Take a breath, and a step back to try to understand why someone is creating a barrier or challenge and look at how to break through that with facts. All barriers and challenges are usually motivated by some level of fear or distrust. Find a way to work through their fear or distrust by sticking to what you know, having facts to back you up, and not allowing yourself to be intimated. It’s easier said than done at times, but with practice, you can overcome and succeed.
Set A Positive Example for Those Coming Up Behind You
Be kind and remember that others are always watching to see how you lead. They will follow your example. They may never remember what you accomplished but they will always remember how you made them feel. So, as you emerge into a leadership role, remember to be kind and set a positive example for those coming up behind you.