“Always sit at the table and bring other women with you. You have an equal place. You’re not lucky. You deserve it.”
Tell us a little bit about what a typical day looks like for you.
As an entrepreneur, I don’t think there’s a typical day. Since you wear every hat in your company, it depends on which hat you’re wearing at what time of day. Most days are a balance of juggling networking events and follow ups with client work and marketing.
How do you stay passionate in your career?
I left my corporate position to follow my passion so it’s no longer difficult to stay passionate about my career. Now, I’m having a positive impact on the careers of other technical professionals and innovation in technical organizations. When I hear things like, “you made a huge difference” or “I’m so grateful for your guidance” I know I’m exactly where I need to be in my career.
Did you have a traditional path into tech (i.e.: CS/IT degree transitioned into tech job)?
Yes. I have a BS in Chemistry and a MS and PhD in Macromolecular Science and Engineering. I have experience in academic, national labs and industry. I jumped from my “traditional path” to my entrepreneurial path to help other technical professionals and organizations meet their goals.
Are there any apps, software, or tools you cannot live without?
Hootsuite, QuickBooks, Momondo, LinkedIn, Uber, Audible… I could go on and on.
It’s common knowledge that women often face obstacles in the tech industry based on their gender. Have you ever had to deal with this type of experience and if so how did you handle it?
Yes. Yes. and yes again. I made sure I always sat at the table never at the edge of the room along the wall. I made sure I listened carefully and always contributed to the conversation whether solicited or not. I forced myself to introduce myself with a firm handshake and my title. Doctor. I learned to never start a sentence with things like “I’m sorry…” or “Forgive me for asking…” or “I know I’m new here…”
What’s your favorite thing about being a woman in tech?
Learning from the journey of others and building strong relationships
How have you given back to the WIT community?
I started my company, EverRise, to focus on developing stronger leadership, strategy and execution skills in technical professionals and technical organizations. By helping other women become more confident and build stronger leadership skills, they will feel more empowered to sit at the table and take hold of every opportunity, or make one for themselves.
What is a piece of advice you would give to others wanting to or currently pursuing a career in tech?
Always sit at the table and bring other women with you. You have an equal place. You’re not lucky. You deserve it.
Tell us about a time you felt extremely accomplished in the past year.
I made the leap from corporate comfort to entrepreneurial insanity and never looked back.
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