Melia Pinckney
Melia Pinckney is an accomplished IT compliance expert with a strong foundation in data protection, AI governance, and fintech security. With almost 10 years of experience in security awareness, auditing, and compliance, Melia plays a key role in helping organizations navigate evolving regulatory landscapes while maintaining data integrity and protecting customer information. 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. Melia’s work is distinguished by her ability to translate complex technical concepts into actionable standards, her empathetic communication style, and her and her commitment to mentoring others from non-traditional backgrounds. She is passionate about building cultures of awareness, advancing equity in tech, and demonstrating that resilience and purpose can shape powerful careers.
She is passionate about building cultures of awareness, advancing equity in tech, and showing young professionals—especially those from underserved backgrounds—that resilience and purpose can shape powerful careers.
• Leveraging AI for Governance, Risk, and Compliance
• Savannah Technical College- Associate's
• Walden University - Bachlor's
• Augusta State - MS IT Security Management
• Magna Cum Laude
• Canine CellMates
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 journey from foster care to cybersecurity leadership has been shaped by intentional learning, strategic networking, and a deep belief in the power of resilience. I also credit my faith in a higher power and the understanding that my purpose is part of something bigger than myself. Hands-on experience in compliance and risk, along with my passion for mentoring others through “Unstuck by Design,” have helped me turn a non-traditional path into a meaningful and impactful tech career.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Someone once told me: “If you’re the smartest person in the room, you’re in the wrong room.” That advice taught me to seek out spaces that challenge me, not just validate me. I’ve learned that growth comes from surrounding yourself with people who push you to think bigger, act bolder, and stay humble.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Start by believing you belong. Don’t wait to be invited; advocate for yourself, ask questions, and build your own table when necessary. Seek mentors who challenge and uplift you. We’re all human, and no one starts out knowing everything. Lean into continuous learning, embrace what makes you different, and use it as a strength. Your perspective is valuable, your voice matters, and your presence in this industry is part of the change we need.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in cybersecurity and GRC today is keeping pace with rapidly evolving technologies—especially generative AI, cloud complexity, and insider threats. As regulations grow more intricate and resources remain stretched, organizations are struggling to maintain compliance while adapting to new risks.
But with challenge comes opportunity. There’s a growing demand for professionals who can translate technical risk into strategic action, embed GRC principles across business functions, and guide ethical AI governance. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are also critical to this evolution. The industry needs voices from varied backgrounds to challenge bias in algorithms, shape inclusive policies, and ensure that security frameworks serve everyone—not just the majority.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity, empathy, and purpose guide everything I do. I believe in leading with authenticity—making decisions that reflect not just what’s right for the business, but what’s right for people. I value resilience, continuous learning, and faith in a higher power, knowing that my journey is part of something bigger than myself.
Mental health and work-life balance are also essential. I’ve learned that taking time for self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whether it’s setting boundaries, unplugging to recharge, or simply giving myself grace during high-pressure moments, I prioritize wellness as a foundation for sustainable impact.