Michaela Barnett is a Penetration Tester and Researcher in the fields of BioCybersecurity & Maritime Cybersecurity. Her service and leadership during her professional career has allowed her to build and further grow a personal mission of service and contribution to the field.

Michaela began her community service repertoire in her collegiate years when she regularly began serving the Youth S.T.E.M. community as an active volunteer & member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. After completing her undergraduate education and earning a Bachelors of Science in Computer Science, she began her professional career in the Washington, D.C. metro area. Michaela was able to begin her career at a premier consulting firm and matriculated to her current organization as a Red Team Operator. Michaela is also an academic author and security researcher.

Michaela has ventured into greater service of the Cybersecurity community by founding and leading Blacks In Cybersecurity (BIC). BIC approaches the specific problem of disparity by way of addressing: literacy, exposure, industry access and skill building in Cybersecurity. BIC programs aim to develop members and attendees via their Events, Conferences and Certification/Development Programs. BIC seeks to continue its work in creating space for and uplifting the Black community in the Hacker and Maker space.

Michaela has been recognized over her career as/has been awarded:  Winter 2022 MCPA Order of Thor Medal, 2022 SANS Difference Makers Award 2022 Finalist, Cyberscoop 50 Most Inspiring Up and Comer 2022, 2021 Cyberjutsu Award Nominee (Finalist) - Cyber Advocate, 2020 Cybersecurity Impact Awards Honoree (June 2020 ), BEYA Outstanding Achievement Award - Science Spectrum Trailblazer (February 2020) and Outstanding Student Leadership Award Delaware State University CMNST (May 2017).