With the Precisely Women in Technology (PWIT) program and blog series, we aim to continue uplifting women in technology. By spotlighting women across our organization, we’re reminded of the power of shared stories, mentorship, and connection — all of which are essential in creating an environment where women in technology can grow, lead, and inspire one another. Continue reading to learn more about Agnieszka Madzia, Senior Compliance and Risk Analyst, and her inspiring career over the last two decades.
Why did you choose to pursue a career in technology?
It all started by chance. On my first day at work, my employer told me that the company could survive without a secretary, but not without an accountant, and asked if I would agree to change my position. I asked him if he realized that I all I knew about accounting was the fact that it existed. He replied that he did, but believed I would manage. After that answer, I simply couldn’t let him down. I spent every spare moment learning as much as I could.
It was the year 2000 when, browsing through various materials, I came across a sentence that intrigued me; it said that “data is supposed to be secure,” and from that moment on, I was hooked.
Who has been your greatest professional mentor? What’s one thing you have learned from them?
25 years ago, information security was often regarded as a burdensome obligation and a source of unnecessary costs. At the beginning of my career, I didn’t meet anyone who dealt with this subject. Curiosity and perseverance became my mentors. I asked questions, but it was difficult to find someone who could answer them. There was little information available on the internet or in other sources that could help me explore the topic further.
After some time, I found out that it was possible to undertake postgraduate studies in IT Systems Auditing. That was exactly what I had been looking for. Unfortunately, my joy was short-lived as one of the admission criteria was having a degree in law or computer science. With a degree in cultural studies, I could only dream of joining the group. Could I give up at that point? Of course not, because there is no situation without a solution. I started by obtaining qualifications as an internal auditor in Public Finance Sector Units. The day after passing the exam, I attended a job interview for an internal auditor position, and two days later, I began working part-time. Thanks to opportunity, I was able to apply to the head of postgraduate studies for permission to enroll, with a waiver of the formal requirements. My main argument was that an internal auditor should cover the entire entity with risk analysis and, on this basis, develop audit plans that include, among other things, IT systems auditing.
This, combined with the prestige enjoyed at that time by the auditor’s exam conducted by the Ministry of Finance, was enough for me to continue growing in my desired direction.
What’s the biggest risk you took in your career? What was the reward?
After many years of living in the city (Chorzów, Poland) I reached a point where I was ready to move to the countryside. Auditing, delivering lectures, and consulting on information security usually require at least part of the work to be carried out on-site. Frequent travel became very exhausting for me. After one specific audit at a software company, I realized I wanted to start programming.
To focus on this new path, I made the decision to give up two of my core professional certificates: CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor) and CIA (Certified Internal Auditor). In doing so, I stepped down from a well-established position to a junior level. A few years later, I discovered that old passions never fade; I missed cybersecurity so much that I asked for the opportunity to change my role.
The greatest reward for me is being able to live in a unique place while working in a field I love and gaining a deeper understanding of how the various elements interact with one another.
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As a woman, what challenges have you faced in the technology industry? How have you overcome them?
I have faced many challenges, but the one that stands out most vividly in my memory occurred at the very beginning of my career. I was tasked with conducting an information security audit at one of the largest Polish companies. When I entered the room, I saw a man behaving in a way that was clearly out of the ordinary. It turned out he was the head of the department and was supposed to represent the company during the audit. As I looked around, I noticed a dozen or so employees who seemed to want to flee the room.
When I looked back at the director, I realized that behind his mask of aggression was a man terrified by the prospect that a young woman might find something that would undermine his competence. I asked for access to some data, and he brusquely replied that such data was unavailable. I responded calmly, saying that was fine, but could he please log into the system and follow a few steps I would provide. Within moments, we saw the report I had requested at the start. The director’s expression was priceless – from that moment, his attitude changed completely. After a while, I could see that even the employees around us seemed to breathe a sigh of relief. While it could’ve been an uncomfortable situation, maintaining my professionalism and getting the job done is exactly what was needed to succeed.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? How do you apply it to your personal and professional life?
Many years ago, my beloved grandfather told me that he wanted me to be happy and to treat others the way I would like to be treated myself. Life is not always easy or pleasant. When a problem arises, I try to solve it. I don’t avoid difficult conversations, but when I see no other option, I don’t back down. I’m not afraid of taking risks and making significant changes, if needed.
What’s one piece of advice you’d offer to younger women entering the industry?
Do what you love, and you will approach your responsibilities with joy and take genuine pleasure in acquiring new skills.
As a successful woman in technology, what’s one thing you do to pay it forward and advocate for other women in the field?
Don’t believe in stereotypes. Look for alternative solutions. Don’t be afraid to take risks. Don’t place your future in the hands of others – you are responsible for creating it.
Learn more about us on our Careers and Culture page.
