For nine years, my day-job, volunteer work, and personal outreach had all been centered on making the Internet a safer place for the average person, especially children who will grow up in this highly connected world.
As a cybersecurity researcher, I specialized in securing the computer networks and hardware of Cisco customers. But at the same time, it injected a healthy dose of skepticism into how I view everyday technology, such as voting machines, smart cities, and social media. I could see how the disappearing nature of social media “stories” was the fast track to oversharing for many people, especially teenagers. This is how demonstrating internet routing using bean bags and laundry baskets became the center of my community outreach.
Years into my attempt to reach as many students as possible via after-school programs, a colleague introduced me to the world of public policy. I was, perhaps embarrassingly, shocked at the impact it has at the federal level. I was equally shocked to find out it was a world I could possibly work for. Up to that point, I had never interacted with anyone who worked on Capitol Hill. Although I voted regularly, I didn’t know how to contact my own elected representatives.
When TechCongress presented the opportunity to serve the American public, I knew I could not pass on it, even though it meant leaving my beloved home state of Texas. (If you’ve ever met a native Texan, you’ll know we really love Texas.) But the next chapter in my quest to affect change was clear – to support Congress as they wrestle with the new challenges our increasingly technological society presents. I moved to Washington, D.C. with a mission to help empower individuals and protect consumers with an emphasis on vulnerable and marginalized populations. I plan to make the most of my year here!
Jennie is currently serving with the Senate Banking Committee minority staff under Ranking Member Sherrod Brown (D-OH).