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?

“A career in Tech/STEAM is a blend of Curiosity, Innovation, and Continuous Learning – all of which drive, motivate, and inspire me to wake up every day to make some meaningful change. I have been fortunate to be with mentors and role models – starting with my father, a mathematician and a self-made genius who taught me to dream big, remain resilient, and evolve constantly.”

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

“Balancing a demanding career with the responsibilities that come as a single mother while also fighting gender stereotypes has been a challenge – especially in the male-dominated world of technology. Leaning into my support network while persistently developing my skills and competencies has helped me break past this barrier. I’ve also made a point of advocating for myself and other women to ensure that our voices are heard, and I found enormous strength and satisfaction with our combined voices.”

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

“I’m incredibly excited about the future of technology because it’s becoming more inclusive, which means we’ll see more products designed to cater to the needs of all people rather than just traditionally represented groups. Diversity brings a wealth of perspectives, and as more women and underrepresented groups enter the field, the technology we create will be more powerful, thoughtful, and impactful.“

Can you give us an example of how you’ve supported diversity, equity, and inclusion in your work?

“At Innova Solutions, I’ve had the privilege of working on several internal programs to promote accessibility and inclusion, such as our Instagram Learning initiative. This platform allows us to facilitate flexible, bite-sized learning which has been critical for employees who may not be able to take advantage of traditional learning opportunities due to time constraints, particularly single parents and caretakers. By making education on-demand and remotely-accessible, we’re ensuring that more people—regardless of their circumstances—can access the right tools to build the skillsets they need to succeed.”

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

“Women bring unique insights that foster creativity, collaboration, and solutions grounded in diverse experiences. I envision a future where women are not only present but are key decision-makers, driving meaningful change at every level. What’s needed now is a shift from mere participation to empowerment—mentorship programs, leadership opportunities, and cultural changes that position women to lead with confidence. When women are fully integrated into the heart of technological progress, the industry becomes more thoughtful, ethical, and transformative.“

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

“Being recognized as a finalist for the WIT Awards is an incredible honor, but the impact goes beyond personal achievement. This acknowledgment reflects the journey of every woman who has faced challenges, pushed through doubt, and persevered in a field that hasn’t always welcomed her. I hope this moment serves as a reminder that success is not just about individual milestones—it’s about paving the way for others, proving that no challenge is too great, and ensuring that every step forward creates space for the next generation. If my journey inspires just one woman to trust in the value of her ideas, pursue her goals with confidence, and know she belongs in this space, then I consider that the greatest success of all.“