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.

Can you share your career journey and what led you to your current role in the tech/STEAM field?

“Most of the roles I had were first-of-a-kind roles, with the exception of early entry level type roles.  And, although I didn’t always get the roles I wanted, I trusted leaders and mentors that strongly advised or put me into roles as they were able to see potential that I didn’t always see.  Taking a variety of roles across different teams and companies with growing responsibility gave me the foundation to become a CIO, and I can now see how all the puzzle pieces came together!”

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

“While today, the Internet of Things is quite common, 8-10 years ago it was not.  As part of leading the IT Innovation team at Kimberly-Clark, we were able to define, develop, and commercialize an IoT solution for their B2B business creating a new product, service, and revenue stream.  This project truly demonstrated the power of technology in business transformations.”

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

“I am really excited about just how integrated business operations and technology are and will continue to be.  The value of technology, new innovation, and impact it can make on a business is unprecedented, and we have a tremendous future ahead of us as.”

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

“I am incredibly passionate about mentoring women, especially within the WIT single mothers’ program.  The relationships and impact that is made through mentoring is profound and am so grateful to play a role in helping women in their journey.”

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

“Very simply I hope to see the number of girls and women in STEAM continue to grow, with more women executives, and the pay gap disappear.  We must continue to stay focused and be vocal, paving the way for the future, and as women, advocate and support other women (and thank you to all of our male allies!).”

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

“With so many incredibly talented women, I am incredibly honored and humbled to be a finalist. As I share more about my journey and obstacles I’ve had to overcome in my career and life, I hope someone is able to connect with my story and find inspiration to keep going after their goals.”