Our September Brilliant Bio, featuring Brianna Sonter!
Our September edition of our Brilliant Bio series is here!
This month, we’re thrilled to present our amazing Associate Network Engineer, Brianna Sonter. From sales to technical engineers, we’re covering all areas of our terrific team and providing a little behind the scenes peak into what makes them tick.
Enjoy! ✨
Introduction
I have always loved being around and working in tech. When I graduated university and moved to Melbourne, I decided that I wanted to put my degree to work.
I wanted to find the perfect company to grow and learn in, Murdoch Webster was just that.
What were some significant life experiences that led you to where you are now?
Moving from Queensland to Melbourne after University brought about profound changes in my life, introducing me to new perspectives and challenges that fostered my personal growth and adaptability. It broadened my horizons, expanding my social and professional networks which led me to wanting to be a part of an amazing group of network engineers.
-
I made my first Tetris computer from scratch with a bread board, LEDS and IC chip. 🧑💻
The excitement of using a breadboard and an IC chip for the first time was top tier, as I witnessed abstract circuit diagrams come to life in tangible, functional circuits right before my eyes. Connecting components and seeing the chip's intricate design translate into real-world functionality ignited a profound sense of curiosity and accomplishment. -
I would do everything I have done so far over again, not to erase mistakes or regrets, but to fully embrace the growth, wisdom, and resilience that each experience has granted me, shaping a life with a richer tapestry of lessons and memories. ⭐
-
Buy a house for my parents then book a trip to see the northern lights. 🌟
-
I would be penne pasta because it is such a versatile pasta shape and just as penne captures sauces within its hollow structure, I strive to encapsulate diverse knowledge and perspectives to enrich my understanding of the world. 🍝
-
The holiday would be on October 20th and it would be celebrating spring so everyone can have a long weekend to go and enjoy the spring weather. 🪷
-
BOTH! I love cats for their independent yet affectionate nature, bringing a sense of tranquility and companionship to my surroundings. Dogs, on the other hand, I love for their boundless loyalty, playfulness, and unwavering companionship, forming deep connections that enrich both their lives and mine. 🐕 😺
-
I would still be doing this job because I love it so much. 😁
-
Being able to help people. Guiding them towards solutions, growth, and understanding reinforces my purpose and fuels a continuous cycle of learning and meaningful contribution. ✨
-
I thought I was a fairy, convinced that my innocent dreams and imagination could weave magic into the world around me, bringing joy and wonder to even the simplest moments. 🧚
-
I would consider showcasing my piano skills by performing a spirited rendition of Für Elise. 🎹
Life at Murdoch Webster
Q: What's your favourite office snack, and how does it fuel your cybersecurity success?
Coffee, it enhances my focus and alertness during complex problem-solving sessions and marathon troubleshooting sessions. With each sip, it keeps me energized and enables me to navigate intricate network landscapes with a clear mind and sustained dedication. ☕
Q: What's the most memorable team outing or event you've had at Murdoch Webster?
The Ladies of IT events, getting together with wonderful women in the industry. As a woman in IT, connecting with fellow female professionals in the field provides an uplifting space to exchange ideas, discuss shared challenges, and build a network of support that bolsters my confidence and motivation. These gatherings amplify the impact of our voices, foster mentorship opportunities, and inspire me to pursue greater success while promoting diversity within the industry. 💪
Q: How do you think cybersecurity experts will work together with artificial intelligence in the future to tackle cyber threats?
Cybersecurity experts and artificial intelligence will collaborate closely in the future to rapidly identify and respond to evolving cyber threats. AI will automate threat detection, allowing experts to focus on strategic decision-making and adaptive defence measures, resulting in a more effective and proactive cybersecurity ecosystem. 🤖
Q: Imagine a day in the life of a Murdoch Webster employee 10 years from now. How do you envision it?
In a futuristic landscape, a network engineer begins their day by interfacing with an AI-driven dashboard that analyses real-time network data, predicts potential disruptions, and recommends pre-emptive adjustments. Leveraging augmented reality tools, the engineer seamlessly troubleshoots complex issues by visualizing and manipulating network components in a virtual environment, while collaborating with AI-generated solutions for enhanced efficiency.
Q: What do you value most about being part of the Murdoch Webster team?
The company culture is perfect for me as well as everyone’s work ethic. Work culture and ethic hold immense significance to me as they lay the foundation for a productive and fulfilling professional journey. A positive work culture fosters collaboration, innovation, and a sense of belonging, while a strong work ethic ensures commitment, diligence, and the achievement of meaningful goals. Those two things are what I value most about being part of the team.
Q: What's the go-to playlist or song that gets your team in the zone for tackling cybersecurity challenges?
A girlie pop playlist featuring a mix of Taylor Swift, Sabrina Carpenter, Charlie XCX, Black Pink, PeachPRC and others. The catchy melodies, upbeat rhythms, and empowering lyrics help create a positive and energized mindset, boosting confidence and focus as we delve into complex problem-solving tasks.
The contrast between the light-hearted music and the serious nature of cybersecurity serves as a refreshing mental break, enhancing creativity and resilience in the face of each challenge. 🎶