Carrie Kopp
Carrie Kopp is a Systems Integration Engineer based in the Greater St. Louis area with more than nine years of experience in systems engineering, information systems security, and enterprise IT operations. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Management and Information Systems from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and also completed a Bachelor’s degree in Business from Eastern Illinois University. Her technical foundation is further supported by CompTIA Security+ CE certification and hands-on experience in defense and commercial IT environments operating under a Secret clearance.
Throughout her career, Carrie has worked in complex, mission-critical environments supporting organizations such as Boeing and other defense-related contractors. Her experience spans systems integration, configuration and lifecycle management, secure media handling, vulnerability assessment, and enterprise infrastructure support. She has worked extensively with Windows and Linux operating systems, cloud environments such as AWS, virtualization platforms like VMware, and enterprise tools including Active Directory, SCCM, Okta, ServiceNow, and various cybersecurity and monitoring systems used in regulated environments.
In addition to her technical career, Carrie is the President of Kitten Caboodle, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit cat rescue organization focused on fostering, trap-neuter-return (TNR) programs, and animal adoption efforts. In this role, she manages daily rescue operations, coordinates adoptions, and supports community animal welfare initiatives. Her professional profile reflects a combination of technical expertise, operational discipline, and a strong commitment to animal rescue and community service.
• CompTIA A+ Certification
• CompTIA Security+ CE Certification
• Southern Illinois University Edwardsville - B.S.
• Petco Love Foundation (approved rescue partner)
• Association of Information Technology Professionals (AITP)
• Adopt-A-Pet
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my strong work ethic, high energy, and persistence. I tend to be a doer—I take action first and refine my thinking along the way rather than overanalyzing upfront. That approach, combined with my drive and determination, has consistently helped me move forward in my career. Ultimately, it is my persistence that has been the most defining factor in my success.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering my industry not to be discouraged if a job doesn’t work out, because in my experience, every role that ended led to a better opportunity, often with greater growth and increased compensation. It’s important not to dwell on setbacks—if something isn’t the right fit, be grateful for the experience and keep moving forward, as there are always other opportunities available. Not every workplace or team will be the right match due to differences in culture, demographics, and working styles, and that’s completely normal. The key is to stay persistent, keep going, and remain open until you find the environment where you truly fit and can thrive.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges in my field right now include the loss of a prior security clearance, which has limited my ability to pursue Department of Defense work, as well as balancing the demands of intensive, often unpaid rescue responsibilities while actively job searching. Financial constraints also add another layer of difficulty in sustaining both professional and nonprofit commitments. At the same time, there are meaningful opportunities through expanded networking and increased visibility via platforms and nonprofit partnerships such as Petco Love, along with the potential to leverage grant writing and alternative funding models to help sustain and grow rescue efforts long-term.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are hard work, persistence, and an action-oriented approach to problem-solving. I believe in taking initiative, staying committed even when challenges arise, and focusing on practical solutions rather than hesitation. Compassion is also central to who I am, particularly in my care and advocacy for animals, and it guides both my professional decisions and personal commitments.