Melia Pinckney

Melia Pinckney is an accomplished IT compliance expert with a strong foundation in data protection, AI governance, and fintech security. With over five years of experience in cybersecurity, auditing, and compliance, Melia plays a key role in helping organizations navigate evolving regulatory landscapes while maintaining data integrity and protecting customer information. She currently serves as a Cyber Risk Governance Analyst II at PulteGroup, where she helps design and maintain cybersecurity policies, manage third-party risks, and address privacy and AI-related data requests. Her work reflects a deep commitment to advancing security best practices and fostering a culture of cyber awareness.
Melia’s career path reflects a powerful story of resilience and self-driven growth. From her early work as a Court Appointed Advocate and customer operations leader, she transitioned into cybersecurity by pursuing higher education and professional certifications, including in machine learning and GRC-focused AI applications. A graduate of Walden University with a BS in Criminal Justice Management and a current MS candidate in Information Security Management at Augusta University, she actively supports others from non-traditional backgrounds in making similar transitions into tech. Melia’s dedication to continuous learning, inclusive mentorship, and risk-focused innovation positions her as a rising leader in the information security and compliance field.
• Leveraging AI for Governance, Risk, and Compliance
• SOC 2 Compliance Essential Training
• Entry Level Cybersecurity Certification Course Completion
• Introduction to Machine Learning
• Cybersecurity Foundations
• Savannah Technical College- Associate's
• Augusta University- M.S.
• Walden University- B.S.
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to perseverance, self-advocacy, and a commitment to daily progress—even in the face of adversity. My education at Walden University, hands-on experience in cybersecurity, and passion for mentoring others through "Unstuck by Design" have all played a vital role in helping me turn a non-traditional path, including time in foster care, into a meaningful and impactful tech career.