Turning grit into growth

David Pany '13 enrolled in the Digital Forensics program at Bloomsburg University with a high school friend because it fit his interest in computer science, and it seemed "cool." Now he is a senior manager at Mandiant, leading investigations into cybercrime against American companies while assisting his team on their climb up the professional ladder. Some of the staff he supports are, of course, fellow Huskies.

"I love it," said Pany of his position with Mandiant. "We have a very growth-oriented culture. There are no limits to the type of work you take on or the type of challenges you can solve."

Pany was hired right after graduation by cybersecurity company FireEye. He started in a project support role, analyzing evidence and computer data. Over time, he moved from a new grad who was admittedly "shell shocked" with the fast-paced and constantly changing world of cybersecurity to his current role as manager. He credits BU for providing the foundation necessary to make such career advancements.

"It was clear that what I learned [at BU] was important to what I was doing," explained Pany. "The longer I was in the workforce, the more I realized what I learned at Bloom was applicable…and I had the fundamentals to get started."

Pany says that the industry is one of very long-term, defined career paths that require constant learning and research. And while he admits that kind of environment can be intimidating, he finds it fortunate that he works with such intelligent, experienced, and helpful individuals.

"People eventually realize that they are part of this elite crew that new hires look up to," said Pany. "It's neat to be here for so long and have gone through that cycle of nervous to confident, then see others do it and see people looking up to them. It is a great place to start a career because of all that upward potential."

In such an environment, it's no surprise that Huskies fit right in. Pany has seen the intangible benefits Bloom grads bring, like determination and drive and the ability to work hard. 

But they also have the technical fundamentals that allow them to apply their skillsets in real-time to solve complex problems and adjust processes to unique and customized responses.

"Every bloom grad who has come here has done very well and found success because of their education," explained Pany. "The attitude and spirit they have brought to the team have been very positive.

It is natural to see Pany's success as a smooth upward climb. Still, in an ironic twist, his first application to Mandiant was rejected, which led him to FireEye. One year later, FireEye acquired Mandiant, and Pany has been there ever since. Because of his experience, Pany advises current students not to be intimidated by the industry or potential rejection. 

"A lot of people look to Mandiant as a leader, and that's intimidating," explained Pany. "Some don't bother applying but look at me as someone who was rejected and slipped in through the cracks and has been successful. Take the chance. It never hurts to apply or reach out on LinkedIn. That level of networking doesn't happen a lot, and it never hurts to try."   

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