From Law Enforcement to Microsoft: The Unexpected Path to Becoming a Cybersecurity Black Belt

From ransomware attacks to AI-driven phishing schemes, today’s cyber threats are evolving faster than most organizations can defend against—making cybersecurity expertise one of the most urgent skills of the decade. Global cybercrime costs are expected to climb to $1.2 trillion annually by the end of this year, underscoring the stakes for organizations that must protect sensitive data in an increasingly complex digital world. Against this backdrop, stories of nontraditional paths into the industry reveal not just opportunity, but a blueprint for resilience and reinvention.

In the latest episode of Professional Quotient, host Jason Winningham sits down with Awnya Creque, a Global Black Belt in Data Security at Microsoft. During an engaging conversation, Awnya shares how her background in criminology, investigative mindset, and passion for justice led her into the world of digital forensics and compliance. Today, Awnya helps global organizations secure sensitive data and navigate AI governance with confidence.

Through stories of resilience, reinvention, and client-centered leadership, Awnya reveals how professional equity is built not just through credentials—but through curiosity, connection, and continuous learning. Listeners will hear how she stays on the cutting edge of security, collaborates with product teams to shape the tools of tomorrow, and mentors others through the power of community and shared experience.

Key insights from the conversation…

• Pivoting into Cybersecurity: Awnya’s criminology background and investigative work with digital forensics provided the foundation for her move into cybersecurity and eDiscovery.
• Client-Centered Leadership: From collaborating with CISOs to advising product teams at Microsoft, Awnya highlights the importance of communication, governance, and building excitement around data security.
• Resilience & Reinvention: Through setbacks like missed promotions and unexpected career detours, Awnya demonstrates how networking, continuous learning, and community service create long-term career impact.

Awnya Creque is a cybersecurity and eDiscovery leader with expertise in digital forensics, compliance management, and AI governance, currently serving as a Global Black Belt in Data Security at Microsoft. She has extensive experience guiding organizations through privacy and compliance standards such as GDPR, HIPAA, and ISO, while also advising product teams on enhancing Microsoft’s governance solutions. With a background spanning law enforcement, risk consulting, and program management, she is recognized for building cross-functional teams, implementing eDiscovery systems, and mentoring future tech leaders.

If you’ve ever felt like your career path doesn’t “fit the mold,” this episode is your blueprint for turning lived experience into professional impact.