This prestigious recognition acknowledges her groundbreaking work in cybersecurity and digital forensics and incident response, particularly with medical devices, and her role as an inspiring leader in the tech industry.
The award, announced today, is organized by Abelia and ODA-Network, honoring women who excel in technology and leadership roles in Norway. Since 2017, this prestigious list has been awarded annually, and Veronica Schmitt is now part of this inspiring community. She is currently the program lead of the bachelor’s program in Digital Forensics and Incident Response at Noroff University College.
— I am incredibly honored to be recognized as one of Norway's 50 leading tech women. Being included in a community of so many talented and inspiring individuals is both humbling and exciting, says Veronica. Veronica’s career has been defined by a passion for technology and hacking since childhood.
For several years, she has worked to secure medical devices, a field to which she is personally committed.
Emlyn Butterfield, rector at NUC, believes the recognition is well deserved:
— Veronica’s recognition as one of Norway’s 50 leading women in tech is well deserved. Her work in medical device forensics, is not only impactful but also a testament to her commitment to driving the field forward.
Rector Emlyn Butterfield, director Anita Karlsen and Veronica Schmitt.
📷: Mathilde Stray Øksendal
A Passion for all things technology
— As someone who relies on a life-saving medical device myself, I have gained unique insight into both the necessity and vulnerability of these technologies, explains Veronica.
— Security in healthcare is not just about protecting data; it’s about protecting people. A compromised device or a cyberattack on a hospital can have life-threatening consequences.
Veronica is both a researcher and practitioner in Digital Forensics and Incident Response (DFIR) and Cyber Security, bridging the gap between theory and practice through her work. She sees her role as a key contributor to strengthening cybersecurity in healthcare, while developing solutions that protect both patients and healthcare professionals.
— Research and practice must go hand in hand in order to handle the increasingly complex threats we face, says Veronica.
Veronica has shown a passion for gamification within higher education particularly in gamifying technical concepts within DFIR. This is an exciting way to engage students and offers a more interactive approach to higher education.
— Through gamification, we can make learning both fun and effective, while preparing the next generation for real-world cybersecurity threats.
Veronica is also self published author of children’s books that hope to teach children all about the exciting world of technology. Her first book talks all about the cyber world, the second book which is also available in Norwegian was designed for children who are undergoing surgery to receive a pacemaker, and she paints an imaginary world where a little boy meets his pacemaker sidekick.
In her downtime Veronica is heading up the planning for BSides Kristiansand which will be held for the first time in Kristiansand. This is a community conference that brings together a variety of technology passionate individuals for a day of information sharing and learning.
A Driver for Diversity and Inclusion
Although Veronica is proud to be part of the award, she sees it as an opportunity to contribute to greater diversity and inclusion in the tech industry.
— It’s important to show that women, especially mothers, can be leaders and innovators in technology and cybersecurity. I hope this inspires more women to step into the tech industry, take on leadership roles, and not be afraid to own their expertise.
Veronica is also particularly proud that her work can inspire her own daughters. As a mother, she wants to be a role model for them and show that it is possible to balance a demanding career with family life.
— I hope that my daughters grow up seeing that passion, hard work, and courage can open all doors. I want them to understand that women, and mothers, can be leaders and drivers of innovation in the tech world.
A Step Toward a More Inclusive Future
For Veronica, this recognition is more than just a personal achievement. It is a step toward a more inclusive and diverse industry where women play a central role.
— Representation means a lot, and I hope this recognition helps show that women in technology, leadership, and cybersecurity are not just pioneers, but a natural and expected part of the industry, concludes Veronica.
