Our "Life at Fortinet" blog series features team members from around the world to discover how each individual's formal and informal education, professional and personal experience, enthusiasm for cybersecurity, and dedication to the company's mission help make Fortinet one of the top cybersecurity companies in the world.

Today is National Intern Day, and we're featuring Fortinet legal intern David Gutierrez as we uncover why he thinks Fortinet is a great place to work, how he feels about his internship, and what he believes is unique about the cybersecurity industry and the Fortinet culture, which is built upon three core values: teamwork, innovation, and openness.

What led you to an internship in cybersecurity at Fortinet? 

I developed an interest in cybersecurity during my second year of law school, where I took technology law coursework that first introduced me to the critical role that cybersecurity plays in protecting personal and corporate data.

In prior internships, I supported in-house legal teams across a variety of practice areas. Going into the summer, I knew I wanted to deepen my understanding of technology transactions, which made the legal team internship at Fortinet a great fit. Fortinet, a leader in cybersecurity solutions, provided the perfect opportunity to combine my legal experience with my interest in the cybersecurity industry.

What are some common misconceptions people have about working in cybersecurity? 

One common misconception is that a career in cybersecurity is all about coding or engineering skills. While they are crucial for many of the technical roles, many of the business partners at Fortinet do not rely on this kind of background. For example, cybersecurity knowledge for legal may involve an understanding of intellectual property rights, legal and regulatory frameworks, global trade compliance, and data privacy law.

What are the skills you draw on most in your role as an intern? 

As a legal intern, communication and analytical skills are essential. Across various projects, I have spent a significant amount of time reviewing complex commercial agreements, case law, and government regulations, determining their implications for our work at Fortinet. In these assignments, I draw on my ability to synthesize large amounts of information and use effective communication skills to ensure that my interpretations are both precise and practical. 

What advice would you give to someone looking to start or grow their career in cybersecurity?

Like with any other field, I have found that the best way to learn more about cybersecurity is to meet with those already in the industry. I have learned so much about cybersecurity through conversations with the attorneys and other business partners at the office. Additionally, as part of my onboarding, I completed the Fundamentals level of Fortinet's free NSE Certification program training. This exposed me to some of the broader non-legal concepts in cybersecurity, and I would recommend this training to anyone with a general interest in the field.

How does your work at Fortinet contribute to our core values of innovation, teamwork, and openness?  

In terms of innovation, I help develop and implement legal strategies that support the business. Teamwork and openness are intertwined. Working with others is an essential part of my role, as many core functions of legal involve intense collaboration not only with each other but also with colleagues across various departments. Openness is exhibited by transparency in our processes and by fostering an environment where the contribution of ideas is encouraged.

What do you like about the culture at Fortinet? 

I appreciate the collaborative and inclusive culture at Fortinet. Everyone on my team is encouraged to share their ideas and contribute to the success of the team and the greater company. There is also a strong emphasis on continuing learning and development, which helps employees grow both personally and professionally.

What's the most unique part of your internship at Fortinet? 

The most unique part of my internship at Fortinet has been the wide scope of legal projects I've had the opportunity to work on. Each of my projects has broadened my understanding of the legal challenges within the cybersecurity field and provided me with a comprehensive view of how legal considerations underpin Fortinet's operations. This variety has been invaluable, allowing me to apply my legal knowledge in multiple contexts and see firsthand how different legal strategies contribute to the company's success.

How have you grown professionally while in your role this summer as an intern? 

This summer, I have honed my problem-solving and critical thinking skills through a wide scope of legal projects, all while benefiting from the guidance of experienced attorney mentors. I have been challenged with complex legal issues and tasked with finding practical solutions. The guidance and the feedback I have received have helped me develop the skills and confidence I will need to be a successful attorney after I graduate from law school.

To wrap things up, can you describe your experience at Fortinet in three words?

Dynamic, impactful, collaborative!

Cybersecurity offers a diversity of roles and career pathways to individuals interested in making a positive impact on the world while making a living.Learn more about careers at Fortinet.