Rethinking Career Growth: Insights from Women Leaders in Technology

At our recent Technology Uncorked, an accomplished panel of executives and industry leaders came together for an honest conversation about career growth, visibility, and leadership in today’s technology landscape. Representing decades of experience across IT, business strategy, entrepreneurship, and governance, the panelists, Diana Caplinger, Marcia Calleja-Matsko, Renee Pearson, Kemper Seay, and Paula Wagner shared lessons learned from their own journeys, as well as practical wisdom for the next generation of women in tech.

From the start, the discussion underscored a central truth: Careers are built not just through hard work, but through relationships, advocacy, and intentional choices. The evening celebrated the power of community, particularly the role organizations like WIT play in connecting women, amplifying accomplishments, and creating pathways for opportunity.

Moving Beyond the “Reliable Doer”

A recurring theme was the challenge many high-performing women face when they become known primarily as dependable executors. Being reliable and capable is an asset, but it can also unintentionally limit growth if others only see you as the person who keeps things running.

Paula Wagner, CIO at Mansfield Energy, captured it perfectly:

“For years, I was the reliable doer, putting in every effort, working nights and weekends, but I learned that hard work isn’t always seen or rewarded. To advance, you have to actively ask for opportunities and make your aspirations known. Performance alone isn’t enough.”

The Power of Networks and Advocates

Our panelists emphasized the importance of building relationships and the difference between mentors, who guide you, and sponsors, who actively champion you.

Building a diverse network of advocates, they noted, is often the difference between being good at your job and being considered for what comes next.

The discussion also challenged the traditional idea of a straight-line career path. Growth, they explained, is often more of a lattice than a ladder. Lateral moves, new functions, and broadened experience can be just as valuable as upward titles, and sometimes even more strategic in the long run.

Translating Technical Expertise into Business Impact

While technical excellence is essential in IT and technology roles, the panel stressed that leadership requires more than expertise. It requires the ability to communicate value.

Learning to tell the story behind the work, to connect projects to outcomes like revenue, efficiency, or customer impact, is a critical skill for career progression. The ability to frame achievements in business terms often determines who is seen as a contributor versus who is seen as a leader.

Owning Recognition and Visibility

The conversation also addressed a topic many professionals find uncomfortable: taking credit. Panelists acknowledged that women are often socialized to downplay accomplishments. Yet fair recognition is essential—not just for individuals, but for the teams they lead.

“Nobody’s more responsible for your development than you. You’ve gotta build your brand. You’ve gotta build your visibility,” said WIT CEO, Heather Rocker.

A Collective Call to Action

While the panelists came from different backgrounds and industries, their message was unified: meaningful careers are built through courage, clarity, and connection.

The evening served as a reminder that advancement isn’t just about working harder, it’s about working strategically, cultivating advocates, communicating impact, and creating space for new opportunities.

Thank you to our panelists, OneDigital for hosting, and attendees for another powerful conversation.