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?

My career in STEAM began with a childhood fascination for space, sparked by a school report on Jupiter. This passion led me to pursue dual Bachelor’s degrees in Physics and Astrophysics from the University of Minnesota, where I gained practical experience working on small satellites. After graduation, I took a leap and moved across the country to join the Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) as a Research Scientist. Over the past five years, I’ve balanced full-time work while earning my Master’s degree in Physics with a concentration in Astronomy from Georgia State University. At GTRI, I’ve had the privilege of leading and contributing to projects that drive advancements in technology such as space situational awareness. These experiences have strengthened my technical abilities and leadership while fueling my passion for pushing the boundaries of space science.

My love for space began in third grade and ignited a journey that shaped my future career. This passion was further fueled by my high school physics teacher, who shared the same enthusiasm for space exploration, guiding me toward a career in STEAM. Their support, encouragement, and shared excitement for the subject helped me realize that pursuing a career in science and technology was not only possible but something I was truly passionate about. Their influence gave me the confidence to follow my aspirations, ultimately solidifying my decision to study physics and astrophysics, pursuing a career in space science.

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

One of the most significant challenges I’ve faced as a woman in STEAM is encountering skepticism about my abilities and facing comments from people who suggested I should pursue a “simpler” or “easier” career. I overcame these hurdles through perseverance, proving my worth by consistently delivering innovative results, taking on complex projects, demonstrating my technical skills and pushing forward with confidence. This journey has reinforced my commitment to breaking barriers and inspiring other women to pursue their goals in STEAM.

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

I’m particularly proud of the two small satellites I helped design, build, and launch into space. These projects embody my love for space and highlight the technical contributions that have shaped my career.

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

I am excited about the shift from seeking a seat at the table to reshaping the table entirely. The future of technology will be driven by diverse perspectives, and I’m eager to see how innovation and inclusivity will challenge the status quo and lead to more groundbreaking solutions.

How have you contributed to innovation or change in your organization or community?

I contribute to innovation through my leadership in women-in-tech programs, mentoring young women in STEAM, and driving key projects at GTRI. I actively listen to feedback, identify areas for improvement, and implement changes to foster a culture of innovation.

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

I use my position to empower others by mentoring young professionals and students, especially women in STEAM. I lead by example, sharing my experiences, and offering guidance to ensure they have the support and confidence to succeed.

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

One example of my support for diversity, equity, and inclusion is my active involvement in public outreach events like the Atlanta Science Festival and monthly Georgia Tech public observatory sessions. These initiatives provide STEAM education to diverse audiences, breaking down barriers to access and creating opportunities for individuals who might not have otherwise had the chance to engage with these fields.

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

If I could go back, I would tell my younger self to have more confidence in my abilities and not to let doubt hinder my progress. Everything worth achieving comes with challenges, but resilience leads to success.

What are your goals for the future, and how do you hope to continue making an impact in STEAM?

My goals for the future include driving innovation in space science and advocating for greater inclusion of women in technology. I aim to lead projects that push the boundaries of space exploration while creating opportunities for women to take on leadership roles and drive innovation in the field.

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

I envision a future where women in technology are not just participants but leaders who shape the direction of the field. I’d like to see more representation of women in leadership roles and a stronger focus on mentorship to support the next generation.

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 creates a more diverse and inclusive technology environment by providing women with mentorship, leadership development, and networking opportunities. This support empowers women to break down barriers and succeed in STEAM fields, where their voices are heard, and their unique perspectives contribute to driving innovation and progress.

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

Being selected as a finalist for the WIT Awards is a tremendous honor. It not only validates my efforts but also serves as a reminder that perseverance and passion can lead to remarkable achievements, no matter the challenges faced along the way. I hope it inspires others, especially young women, to believe in their potential and pursue their dreams in STEAM. By seeing what is possible, I want them to know that they have a place in these fields, and their unique perspectives can lead to meaningful progress and advancements. This award reflects the impact of dedication and hard work, and I hope it encourages others to keep striving for excellence and reaching new heights in their careers.