About the Women of the Year Awards

The Women of the Year Awards, hosted annually by Women In Technology (WIT), celebrates exceptional women across Georgia who are making a significant impact in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM). Now in its 24th year, the WIT Awards honor leaders, innovators, and advocates who pave the way for future women in STEAM.

What inspired you to pursue a career in tech/STEAM, and who has been your most significant influence?

“I worked for a podiatry office and our “IT Guy” Weston, who lived in Zimbabwe, became one of my best friends to date. I call him for all things IT related and everything else. I would trouble shoot all the hardware/physical components when needed in the office and I quickly became the “resident” IT person in our office in a sense. I enjoyed it and am a lifetime learner, I began studying for my CompTia A++.  I then transitioned to learning the cloud and then the WIT program. Sitting at the Awards Gala last year at the One Digital table and listening to all of the finalists and winners, I knew I was in the right field and had finally found exactly where I wanted to be.”

What challenges have you faced as a woman/girl in STEAM, and how did you overcome them?

“The job search. The job market is so saturated right now and with the increase in layoffs even those mid-senior level are now competing for Jr/Entry level positions. My connection with WIT and those I’ve made through networking events and my engagement on LinkedIn have gotten me past these challenges and I have amazing individuals willing to champion for me. Your network is your net worth!”

What excites you most about the future of technology/your field?

“The endless possibilities! There is a position for everyone in STEAM. I had the opportunity recently to attend a WIT girls event and it’s incredible to see how much STEAM activities/ pathways they are already involved in.”

How do you use your position to empower or mentor other women/girls in STEAM?

“As a graduate of the SMP program I have made it my personal mission to give back to the organization that has done so much for me. I really enjoy networking and think there is major opportunity to pull from both existing connections as well as future and further spread the word of this amazing program!”

If you could go back to the start of your career, what would you tell your younger self?

“Set boundaries. Lose the Imposture Syndrome. You absolutely belong here. Your NETWORK is your NET WORTH. There is no one path, you can absolutely build a career in tech even if you’ve taken the non-traditional route.”

How do you envision the future of women in technology, and what changes would you like to see?

“I believe there will be more women in leadership roles. Being the only woman in the room will be a thing of the past! Women belong in tech.”

What does selection as a finalist for the WIT Awards mean to you, and how do you feel this recognition can inspire others?

“I was fortunate to be offered a seat at the One Digital table at last years gala. I was almost front row and watched the finalist and winners and KNEW I’d be up there too. Each and every one of them shared the same passion and eagerness to make change. I was so inspired and to this day can still quote a few of the speeches. I knew I wanted to be apart of this community, I wanted to make a difference, and I have found it. Being a finalist means that I am on the right path, I am acknowledged and seen by my mentors, peers, and the program that has completely changed my life. I’m so grateful.”