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’ve always been a tech geek at heart, driven by curiosity and a passion for technology. Winning the Science Olympiad and Tech Fair in elementary school ignited my fascination with technology. I attended STEM Magnet Schools from 3rd to 6th and 9th to 12th grades, and during high school, I interned at Accenture through the Girls Who Code program. There, I learned coding languages and collaborated on a summer project to develop Climate Closet, an app that recommends outfits based on weather data. My dad—a mechanical engineer—and my mom—a front-end graphic designer—have inspired me to explore the blend of creativity and technology.

Can you share a moment or project you are particularly proud of in your career?

I started my journey with WIT Campus at UGA as Director of Marketing for a year then was elected to be President. I knew I had to pay it forward when I am given a platform like this. I was given the opportunity to lead 9 amazing and talented women. By working as a team of 10 women, countless hours of planning and hard work we were able to execute the Lavender Gala. We helped 50 students at UGA secure jobs at MBB, Big 4 tech and Tech startups. It was a night dedicated to raising awareness for Domestic violence and showing students how to dress business professional through a fashion show sponsored by White House Black Market. We raised $1000+ and donated the proceeds to Project Safe in Athens, nonprofit organization working to end domestic violence. Knowing that my team and I were able to make a difference in people’s lives and raise awareness for such a pressing cause was a significant milestone and I could not have done any of it without WIT Campus.

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

What excites me most about the future of technology is the potential for achieving a sustainable balance between nature and innovation. It fascinates me how we can harness technology to address environmental challenges, such as using smart systems for energy efficiency or developing sustainable materials. As we advance, I believe that merging technological progress with eco-friendly practices can lead to a healthier planet, ensuring that future generations can thrive while benefiting from the incredible capabilities of technology.

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

I find great joy in empowering young women in STEAM through the UGA mentorship program and various nonprofit organizations (Women in Technology, WIT Campus, Girls Who Code, Terry Women’s Initiative, and Boys and Girls Club of America). Sharing my experiences and insights with them feels incredibly rewarding, as I hope to inspire confidence in their unique paths. When aspiring technologists reach out to me on LinkedIn, I warmly welcome the opportunity to connect and guide them. I truly believe that every interaction can spark hope and motivate them on their journey, creating a supportive community where they feel valued and encouraged to pursue their dreams.

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

I envision a future where women lead in technology from the classroom to the boardroom, inspired by pioneers like Ada Lovelace, the first computer programmer. We need to build strong pathways that start with early education, providing girls with the skills and confidence to excel in STEAM. By fostering mentorship and advocacy programs in schools and companies, we can ensure more women advance to leadership roles. I hope to see a tech industry where women’s contributions are celebrated and their presence in C-suites is the norm, not the exception.

Why is WIT’s mission essential and how do you see the organization influencing the personal and career growth of those involved?

WIT’s mission is essential because it addresses the persistent gender gap in technology by providing girls and women the tools, mentorship, and opportunities they need to succeed. Women still only make up approx. 31% of the technology field in America. In a rapidly evolving digital world, diverse perspectives are critical to innovation, yet women remain underrepresented. WIT is not only helping to close that gap but also fostering a more inclusive tech community where women can thrive from the classroom to the boardroom. By supporting women at every stage, WIT is driving lasting change and creating a future where everyone has the chance to contribute and lead in technology.