Blue Ocean Global Technology Interviews Jennifer Fix | Deputy State Chief Information Security Officer

Jen is a cybersecurity and risk management executive skilled in directing enterprise security initiatives and leading highly effective security teams. She believes the key to an effective security strategy is to foster a culture of security awareness promoting transparency and mitigation of risks while balancing risk management in a way that meets business objectives. Jen holds Risk and Information Systems Control™ (CRISC) and Business Relationship Management Professional (BRMP®) certifications and is passionate about mentoring, coaching, and fostering professional growth. 

Blue Ocean: Could you tell us about your professional journey—what inspired you to pursue a career in IT?

Jennifer: I grew up in a small Midwestern town with little exposure to technology. I originally planned to pursue social work, but was concerned that path might be emotionally overwhelming, so I switched gears and earned an administrative associate degree in business administration. It was during a recruiting position early in my career that I first encountered engineers working with AutoCAD, Unix systems, and Oracle databases. Their world fascinated me, and I started offering to help with tasks they didn’t enjoy in return for invaluable on-the-job training. That hands-on exposure sparked a growing curiosity about IT.

From there, I moved through help desk roles and system administration to more strategic and people-focused positions in project and business relationship management. During the latter part of my 20 years at RTI  International, in my role as Director of Security, Risk, and Compliance, I came full circle—merging my technical roots with a leadership in cybersecurity and enterprise risk. I’ve just recently taken on a new role as Deputy Chief Information Security Officer for the great state of North Carolina.

Blue Ocean: What does a typical day in your life look like?

Jennifer: I start early, walking our husky, catching up on the latest cybersecurity news, and tackling tasks that require deep concentration. Once the workday gets going, it’s typically filled with meetings, collaboration, and a variety of interactions that keep things dynamic and engaging.

With my kids now grown and pursuing their paths, my evenings are quieter. It’s usually just me, my fiancé, and our “perpetual canine toddler”, enjoying cooking dinner together and downtime.

What I love most are the days I spend networking, attending events, speaking about technology or professional growth, and mentoring others. Those moments of connection and shared learning are what truly energize me.

Blue Ocean: Which emerging trends in your industry most excite you?

Jennifer: AI is the big topic in technology today, but what fascinates me most is the emerging intersection between psychology and technology.  I’ve always cared deeply about community and social impact, and now I see those values reflected in technology, especially through human-centered AI solutions that draw from behavioral science. To see my early interest in social work and my technical journey come together this way feels like a full-circle moment. It brings together the technical journey I’ve been on with the social work aspirations I had when I was younger. 

To be at this point in my career, where both passions can coexist and complement each other, is incredibly fulfilling, and it genuinely excites me for what’s ahead.

Blue Ocean: What do you believe is the key to your success, and how do you stay ahead in such a competitive environment?

Jennifer: Staying curious and connected has been essential in my career. I grew within the same organization for 20 years by constantly learning and welcoming new perspectives. Networking, professional groups, and industry events keep me engaged and help bring fresh insights into my work. I always ask myself two questions when I meet someone: What can I learn from them? And how can I support them on their journey? That mindset has opened many doors.

I’ve also found that surrounding myself with creative and strategic thinkers inspires me to tap into that part of myself. I invest time in developing not just my technical knowledge, but also my leadership and emotional intelligence skills. Leading with empathy, communicating effectively, growing as a leader, and adapting to different teams and situations has made a real difference. It’s what allows me to bridge strategy with execution in a way that supports people as much as outcomes.

Co-leading RTI’s Women’s Leadership group for several years helped refine my approach to leadership. Mentoring, building community, and creating spaces where others can thrive has been as crucial to my growth as any technical role or project. Those relationships have shaped how I lead today. And also, never be afraid to try something new. It was a hard decision to leave an organization I had been at for 20 years, but I knew it was the best decision for my career and that I have a lot of knowledge and expertise to bring to the North Carolina Department of Information Technology.

Blue Ocean: What is something unique you offer to your clients?

Jennifer: I bring a balance of technical expertise and genuine human connection, which is a rare quality in the IT world, where logical, systems-based thinking often takes precedence over empathy and interpersonal insight. I show up with both.

I also lead with authenticity. It’s how I build trust. In every interaction and initiative, I aim to be fully present and genuinely invested in helping others. I approach every project with a clear intent: to collaborate with purpose and to create meaningful value for the people I work with.

Blue Ocean: In your experience, what qualities separate those who excel in their field from those who don’t?

Jennifer: The most important quality is the willingness to grow and learn continually. Real learning goes beyond a diploma. It means understanding what drives you, where you can contribute, and what kind of growth will allow you to show up fully in your work.

There were times I considered going back to finish my degree or pursue a master’s, but none of the programs aligned with where I was in my career. As a full-time working single mom, time and resources were limited. Instead, I made the intentional decision to invest in my leadership skills, cybersecurity certifications, and hands-on experience that directly advanced my career. I hope to see more organizations recognize the value of non-traditional learning paths, practical experience, and alternative programs, such as boot camps, certifications, and real-world experience. Relying solely on formal degrees can overlook the depth and diversity of knowledge professionals build outside the classroom.

Blue Ocean: As a leader in your field, how do you approach mentoring or guiding those who look up to you?

Jennifer: Mentoring is something I truly value. I’ve had incredible mentors throughout my career, and I take that responsibility seriously. I always start by showing up as my authentic self and creating space for others to do the same. A strong mentoring relationship starts with getting to know the person, understanding their journey, and how I can add value.

One thing I’ve learned is that mentorship isn’t one-size-fits-all. People are at different stages in their personal and professional growth, and they engage in various ways. I try to meet them where they are, offering support and flexibility rather than fixed expectations.

At its core, mentoring is a mutual exchange of knowledge and support. It’s about listening deeply, offering thoughtful guidance, and being fully present in the relationship. I don’t believe support has an expiration date. I want those I mentor to know I’ll continue to be a resource for as long as the connection brings value.

Blue Ocean: What advice would you give to your younger self as you were starting your career in this multifaceted industry?

Jennifer: Don’t be afraid to take a risk. Just go for it. Failure is not something to be ashamed of. It is where growth happens.

Also, stop overanalyzing every interaction, sentence, or word. We’re often our own harshest critics. I held myself back more than anyone else ever did by questioning and second guessing my decisions. I’ve learned that progress happens when you get out of your own way and give yourself permission to move forward without perfect conditions.

Blue Ocean: What is something you are most grateful for, either professionally or personally?

Jennifer: It’s my family. I’m blessed to have a strong, supportive relationship with my parents and brothers. My kids and fiancé are also amazing. They’re my biggest cheerleaders and the source of my greatest joy. And of course, there’s our dog, who brings us constant laughter and a little bit of chaos

The people in my life are my anchor. I’ve learned so much from them, and I never take that support for granted.

Blue Ocean: What’s one lesson in life that changed your perspective?

Jennifer: For a long time, I was reluctant to tell people I was a single mother. I worried it would cause others to doubt my abilities. But recently, my daughter, who is now in college, told me many others feel the same way. And she’s right. She reminded me that being open about it could help someone else see what’s possible. That helped me own my story more fully. Now with grown kids, my next chapter is my journey to rediscover what it means to live for myself.

There was also a turning point in my career when I felt completely burnt out. My calendar was packed, and my response to most things became, “I’m too busy.” I started feeling bitter and disconnected. 

Then I joined a leadership course at RTI. On the first day, we had to choose one word to describe our job. I said “annoyed.” That hit me hard.

The course helped me realize that my mindset was pulling me away from my values. I started tracking how often I said “too busy” and began shifting how I prioritized, set boundaries, managed my time more intentionally, and said no when needed. It was truly a career-changing shift. I stopped just grinding through tasks and started leading with purpose again. Growth doesn’t always come from changing jobs; sometimes, it comes from changing ourselves.

Blue Ocean: Is there a particular quote or piece of advice that has guided you through your career?

Jennifer: “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” It reminds me to be brave enough to take chances, especially the ones that could change everything. At the same time, as someone who works in risk management, I also see the value in knowing when not to take a shot, when holding the ball might be the smarter move. That balance between boldness and strategy resonates deeply with me.

The second quote that’s stuck with me is: “Fake it till you make it.” I’ve learned from it in moments of self-doubt. It pushes me to show up even when I don’t feel 100% ready. Still, the word “fake” has always made me uneasy, as it doesn’t align with my values. It suggests being inauthentic. But I’ve come to interpret it as moving through impostor syndrome with intention: showing up, learning as you go, and trusting your skills will grow to meet the challenge.

Blue Ocean: What hobbies or interests help you maintain a balanced lifestyle outside of work?

Jennifer: Crocheting was something I always admired. My godmother made beautiful pieces, and I wanted to learn, but it never quite stuck until the pandemic. During the lockdown, I finally committed to figuring it out, and it clicked.

Now I make blankets, hats, and stuffed animals. It’s become more than a hobby. Crocheting provides me with a creative outlet and a form of calmness.

My mind is constantly in motion, especially during a busy workday. But when I’m crocheting, everything slows down. I can focus, breathe, and be fully present. It’s become my way to unwind, recharge, and create something both functional and beautiful.

Conclusion

Throughout her career, Jen Fix prioritized the intersection of technology and human connection. She’s a leader who brings both deep expertise and authentic care to every role she takes on. It’s this balance that defines her approach to work, mentorship, and life.