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Chaitanya Rahalkar – Meet the Mentor

I am a Software Security Engineer at Block, developing security pipelines and detection systems to enhance enterprise security. With experience at leading tech companies, I’m passionate about tackling challenges in cybersecurity and AI. As a startup founder, I’m advancing multimodal intelligence, enabling businesses to create autonomous applications that see, hear, and act independently.
Chaitanya Rahalkar

Software Security Engineer, Block Inc (f.k.a. Square Inc)

Why did you decide to become a mentor?

I decided to become a mentor because I’ve always believed in the power of shared knowledge and the importance of guiding others on their professional journeys. Throughout my career in cybersecurity and AI, I’ve been fortunate to learn from incredible mentors who helped shape my skills and career direction. Now, I see mentorship as an opportunity to give back, fostering growth and innovation in others while building meaningful connections within the tech community. Being a mentor not only allows me to share my expertise but also challenges me to stay sharp and continuously learn. Mentorship has also enriched my perspective by exposing me to diverse ideas, challenges, and approaches that mentees bring to the table. I signed up because I wanted to contribute to the development of future leaders in tech and help them navigate complex career paths. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see mentees succeed, knowing I played a small part in their journey.

How did you get your career start?

My career in cybersecurity and AI began with a strong academic foundation, fueled by curiosity and a passion for solving complex challenges. During my undergraduate studies, I had the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects, including creating a secure peer-to-peer file system using blockchain technology and exploring AI’s potential in medical imaging. These early experiences sparked my interest in the intersection of security and technology. I was fortunate to have mentors who believed in my potential and guided me during pivotal moments. My first role after graduation, working on endpoint protection systems, gave me hands-on experience in real-world security challenges and laid the groundwork for my technical skills. Pursuing my Master’s at Georgia Tech further opened doors, including internships and roles at leading companies like Meta, where I honed my expertise in fuzzing and vulnerability detection. These experiences, coupled with continuous learning and support from mentors, have shaped my career path and allowed me to break into the dynamic and ever-evolving fields of cybersecurity and AI.

What do mentees usually come to you for?

Mentees usually come to me for guidance in navigating the complexities of building a career in cybersecurity, AI, and software engineering. Many are looking for insights into breaking into the industry, whether it’s through mastering technical skills, building strong portfolios, or identifying the right opportunities. I often help them understand how to approach challenges like preparing for technical interviews, choosing the right projects to showcase, and staying updated in fast-evolving fields like AI and security. My mentorships are structured around open and transparent communication. I begin by understanding the mentee’s goals and tailoring my guidance to their unique needs. Mentees can expect actionable advice, resources for skill-building, and encouragement to push boundaries. I also provide real-world insights from my experiences at companies like Meta, Block, and through my startup journey with Omnichat AI. Additionally, I aim to foster a mindset of continuous learning and problem-solving, empowering mentees to confidently tackle technical and career challenges. It’s rewarding to see them grow and succeed in their professional journeys.

What's been your favourite mentorship success story so far?

One of my favorite mentorship success stories involves a student who had a dream of getting admitted to Georgia Tech, my alma mater. When he approached me for guidance, he was passionate about pursuing a career in cybersecurity but was unsure how to build a strong application that would stand out. Over several months, we worked closely to refine his profile, focusing on showcasing his unique strengths and achievements. I helped him structure his resume to highlight impactful projects, provided detailed feedback on his statement of purpose, and advised him on how to position his skills and aspirations to align with Georgia Tech’s program values. We also discussed strategies for presenting his technical experiences in a compelling way and identifying opportunities to fill any gaps in his profile. When he received his admission letter, it was an incredibly proud moment for both of us. Seeing him achieve his dream and knowing that I played a small role in his journey was deeply fulfilling. It reaffirmed my belief in the power of mentorship and the impact of personalized guidance in helping others reach their goals.

What are you getting out of being a mentor?

Being a mentor has been an incredibly rewarding experience that has positively impacted my career and personal growth in numerous ways. It has enhanced my leadership skills by teaching me how to guide and inspire others effectively, while also improving my ability to communicate complex ideas in a clear and relatable manner. Mentoring has given me a deeper sense of purpose, as I get to play a role in shaping the journeys of talented individuals and helping them achieve their goals. On a professional level, mentoring has strengthened my confidence and problem-solving abilities. Mentees often bring fresh perspectives and unique challenges, which push me to stay current and think critically about my field. It has also expanded my network, connecting me with driven individuals who are as passionate about technology and growth as I am. On a personal level, mentoring is a humbling experience that reminds me of the importance of giving back and the lasting impact that shared knowledge can have on someone’s life. Overall, it’s been quite an enriching journey that has helped me grow as both a professional and a person.

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