Her Story
About Amber
Amber Tyson is a cybersecurity and information technology professional serving as the Cybersecurity Community Operations Lead for the Florida Digital Service in Tallahassee, Florida. With more than eight years of experience in IT and cybersecurity, she has built a career grounded in collaboration, innovation, and public service.
Amber began her professional journey in retail management before transitioning into state government, where she steadily advanced through technical and project management roles into statewide cybersecurity leadership. She holds several industry certifications, including Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified ScrumMaster (CSM), Florida Certified Contract Manager (FCCM), and Certified in Cybersecurity (CC), and is continuing to expand her cybersecurity expertise through advanced professional development.
In her current role, Amber leads statewide collaboration efforts that bring together state agencies, local governments, higher education, law enforcement, and private industry to strengthen Florida’s cybersecurity posture. She facilitates the Florida Cybersecurity Advisory Council and the Government Technology Modernization Council, supporting the development of strategic recommendations that help shape cybersecurity and technology priorities across the state.
Among her proudest professional accomplishments is helping establish the Government Technology Modernization Council following its creation through legislation. From its earliest stages, Amber helped develop the structure, processes, and collaborative framework needed to bring together leaders from government, academia, and industry to address Florida’s evolving technology needs.
Amber credits much of her professional growth to mentors who recognized her potential and encouraged her to pursue opportunities beyond what she initially thought possible. That experience continues to influence her own leadership approach, which is centered on trust, active listening, communication, and building strong relationships.
Through her leadership and commitment to public service, Amber continues to help build a more secure, resilient, and connected future for the State of Florida.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Amber
01What do you attribute your success to?
The biggest factor in my success has been mentorship. I was fortunate to have leaders who believed in me before I believed in myself. They encouraged me to take risks, pursue IT project management, and continue growing professionally. Their support changed the trajectory of my career.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
A degree doesn't define your potential. One of the most impactful pieces of advice I received came from a manager who told me that my curiosity, work ethic, and willingness to learn were more important than whether I had a college degree. That encouragement helped me realize I was capable of far more than I had given myself credit for.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't let the stereotype that cybersecurity is a "man's field" discourage you. Cybersecurity is about protecting people, solving problems, and working together to make organizations more secure. It's a team effort, and the field needs more women and more diverse perspectives. If you're curious about cybersecurity, don't be afraid to take that first step—you belong here just as much as anyone else.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges is that cyber threats evolve faster than any one organization can keep up with. The opportunity is realizing that cybersecurity is a team sport. The more we share information, learn from one another, and build partnerships across government, education, and industry, the better prepared we'll all be.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Trust and listening are two of the most valuable skills you can develop. Building trust creates strong relationships, and taking the time to truly listen helps you communicate more effectively, solve problems, and learn from others. One of the biggest lessons I've learned is that you don't always have to be the loudest voice in the room to make an impact.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.