Welcome to the Cisco Community Ask Me Anything conversation!
Submit your questions from Wednesday, March 5 to Wednesday, March 19 to our guest, Kanyatta Walker, VP – Legal Operations & Technology Solutions at Cisco. She is also the Executive Sponsor of Women of Cisco (Southern Region) and Global Co-Lead of Connected Black Professionals.
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Current role: VP Legal Operations | LinkedIn
Years in the tech industry: 26+
Education & certifications: Emory University – Goizueta Business School (MBA), PMP, AI White Belt
Key areas of expertise: Process Improvement, Global Delivery, Transformational Leadership, Gen AI, IT Strategy
Hometown & where you live now: Greenville, Mississippi à Johns Creek, GA (Atlanta suburb)
One thing you're currently obsessed with: College softball
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Lets get the conversation started with Kanyatta...
- If you had to describe your career journey in a movie title, what would it be?
“Limitless"
- What inspired you to pursue a career in tech, and how has that passion evolved over time?
In high school, I was interested in occupational therapy and planned to major in it. I took the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) aptitude test with a friend who wanted to join the army. The military recruiter told me my scores were excellent, and I could do anything I wanted to, except be an engineer. This piqued my curiosity; I changed my major and graduated with a degree in software engineering technology and haven't looked back.
- You have held a variety of roles over the years - from software developer, PMO lead, VP of Client Product Support; to now working closely with Chief Legal Office to lead the implementation of advanced technology tools and Generative AI. How have you navigated career challenges and seized growth opportunities?
Stay curious and don't limit yourself. I realized my work isn't defined by a title, so I seek opportunities where my transferable skills can shine. I focus on my strengths and collaborate with others who have different skills and perspectives. Embrace diverse thoughts and know you don't have to be an expert at everything.
- What’s the one career highlight you're most proud of?
Change can be challenging, especially when updating technology or processes. At a previous employer, we trained our development team to implement new systems. Upskilling current employees benefits the company by retaining loyal staff and reducing the costs of training new hires.
- With the 2025 International Women's Day theme of #AccelerateAction, what impactful steps do you think we can take to bridge the gender gap in tech?
Educate women and young girls early about opportunities in technology. Encourage them to pursue their goals and take risks. If offered a challenging learning opportunity, lean in and give it a try.
- What advice would you give to women aiming for leadership roles in tech, as well as young girls considering STEM education?
Believe in yourself......... “We all have vast potential inside of us, untapped levels of strength, intelligence, and focus, and the key to activating these superpowers is unlimiting yourself.” - Jim Kwik
Take the opportunity to interact with Kanyatta!
Note: Please post your question or comment no later than March 19, 2025.
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In case you missed it: Women in Tech group hub on Cisco Community is a dedicated space for women in networking, cybersecurity, IT, and STEM to support each other and help close the gender gap in tech. Connect. Share. Celebrate. Advocate.
