What inspired you to pursue a career in IT?

The challenge! There aren’t many women, let alone minority women in tech and I want to forge a path for the next generation of women seeking a career in tech!

What is the most challenging part about being a woman in IT?

Being the only one at the table. Sometimes it’s intimating. But we learn to speak even if our voices shake!

What is the most rewarding part about being a woman in a leadership role?

Finding my voice and newfound confidence.

What inspired you to pursue a career in IT?

Like many people in our industry, I backed into my career in technology via Higher Education. As the Deputy Director of Enrollment Management at Fordham University, I was the liaison between our Enrollment division and the Information Technology group that supported our efforts. Cambridge Technology Partners, a business consulting organization, came looking for leaders in the higher education space, to join their team of consultants focusing on ERP implementations in the higher education market space. That was my entrance into the world of technology, cloud and cyber solutions. The rest is history…

What is the most challenging part about being a woman in IT?

The fact that there are so few female leaders in our industry is alarming. The industry, unfortunately, doesn’t foster an environment where women can flourish. The lack of representation for women in tech can hinder a woman’s ability to succeed in the industry. We have very few mentors and sponsors available for women to grow and thrive within their roles. It can be even more isolating as a female leader/executive in the world of Big Tech because unfortunately the “Bro Culture” is pervasive. The biggest challenge is finding the right network and identifying opportunities to promote each other.

Why is diversity in business important to you

There is power in numbers. As diversity increases, so does a sense of urgency for issues otherwise overlooked.

What advice would you give an aspiring female IT leader?

1. Don’t settle. 2. Find your people. 3. Those who support you behind closed doors, encourage you to be a better person and celebrate your successes. 4. Find a mentor/sponsor. 5. Rome wasn’t built in a day and neither is your network, expertise, or confidence. 6. Celebrate your successes! Even if nobody else is.

Help Us Keep IT Diverse

BlackHawk Data is proud to be a woman-owned small business. We’re committed to sharing the stories of women in our industry and opening doors for young professionals. We believe everyone should be able to make changes in the tech world.
Learn more about our commitment to diversity today!