What was your first job and what did you learn from it?

My first job was as an associate engineer at N.B.I. in Boulder, Colorado. I worked there for nine years in the development organization and had my first management job there. The company went through many changes, both in product direction, downsizing, and financial stability (going through Chapter 11 at the end of my time there). It was an incredible opportunity for me in that I learned a lot about software development; managing the development process, what worked and what didn't, the importance of the business plan to product development, and how important it is to stay focused on your core competencies.

What inspired you to choose your current field or the position you currently hold?

Software development represents the ultimate combination of logic and creativity. This pairing also promotes solving difficult problems in an elegant, efficient manner, which in turn is very satisfying. My desire to direct the process of providing customer solutions, from inception to release, was what led me into management.

Why would you encourage other women or young women and girls to choose careers in your field? What advice would you give someone who wanted to choose your career?

Software development is an outlet that allows for creativity in many ways. It is perfect for those who like to work and have control over what they produce. It is also becoming much easier to have flexible hours and telecommuting options so you can balance your personal life with your professional one. With more and more women having to work, I believe it is important to work in an industry where you can make your own mark. This is also an industry which has flourished because people have challenged the status quo, which has been great for women.

What motivates or inspires you on a daily basis in your field or job?

On a daily basis, hearing how our customers are receiving significant benefits from the solutions we provide keeps me motivated. I am also inspired by the many wonderful people I get to work with. Their enthusiasm, intelligence, and ability to execute is exciting to be around.

What do you see as the single most interesting element of your work?

For me, the combination of working with technology and people is the most interesting element. Challenging my team to solve problems, to be efficient, to work smart, to be creative, to have fun, and deliver a solution that our customers can really use keeps me engaged.

Why is your field or industry important to society?

Technology is important to society because it has enabled a more rapid exchange of ideas, from ideological to technical. As a society, the access to more global information is causing people throughout the world to challenge old ideas and ways of doing things. The amount of information available today is almost overwhelming, and we as a society will have to change the way we perceive and interact with each other as a result. Society is grappling with this now, and the continuing explosion of technical advances continues to force us to grow. Over time, we will learn how to deal with this new reality, hopefully for the best.

What is your vision for your industry's or field's future? What are some of the exciting things to watch for in your field or industry?

Ten years ago, people laughed at the concept of a computer in every home. With the eruption of the Internet and advances such as Web TV and network computers, access to communication and knowledge around the world will continue to increase. In my particular field, manufacturing software, this is translating into the ability for discrete manufacturers to deliver better products more efficiently by enabling better communication with suppliers, vendors, customers, and partners on a global scale. Technology is still widely underused to achieve even basic improvements in process and information access.

What values are the most important to you and what do you value in others? How do you prioritize these values in your daily life?

The values that are most important to me are honesty, integrity, sincerity, compassion, a positive attitude, and humility. These are values that I try to practice at home, at work, and in all my relationships. I respect those who have similar values.

What do you think are the most important character traits to develop in order to succeed professionally?

Success is defined in many ways. For me, success is the ability to balance a fulfilling career and quality time with my family and friends. The traits that I think are most important are self-confidence, credibility, leadership, staying focused on what's at hand, good time management, and a good work ethic. These translate into the ability to work with teams, to execute, to be believed, and to be respected. With these traits, you will be successful.

Who is your hero, mentor or person you most admire and why?

I always admire those people who are able to turn chaos into opportunity, either professionally or personally. My mother is probably the most influential person in my life. She is the one who has always encouraged me to reach to the stars and never accept anything less than the best. She is also the one that assessed my innate skills and guided me to use those in technology. Thanks Mom!

What is your favorite book and why?

My favorite book has nothing to do with my field, as it has been a favorite since I was very young. "The Lord of the Rings," by J.R.R. Tolkien. This book, though a fantasy novel, touches on many fundamental issues, including dealing with cultural differences, team work, creativity, perseverance, keeping focused on your goals, power, individual contribution, and loyalty. Plus it's wonderfully entertaining!

What book would you recommend to someone who knows nothing about your field or industry but would like to know more about it?

Information on technology is so bountiful that it is hard to distill it down to one book. Bill Gates' book, "The Road Ahead," gives some interesting insights into where technology may lead. Depending on the specific area of interest, there are many publications and books that are available at most stores to learn about all aspects of computing. However, in this industry, the best way to learn is to do - either taking a class or buying a computer and becoming familiar with the basic concepts.

What technology has changed your life professionally or personally for the better?

Technology in general has been very good to my professional career. I find that the key element for success is usually good communication. The popular usage of computers, the Internet, and email has helped to streamline the communication process. I am even able to communicate with my family all around the country on a real-time basis.

What are your future goals?

My current goal is to make my current company a huge success by implementing many of the theories I've learned about software development over the years, namely building an organization that is functional, productive, and fun. After our company goes public and proves it is successful, I would like to work with other start-ups as a member of executive staff, a board member, or venture capital partner, and/or combine my interests in the arts/movies and software in some fashion.

What do you do to relax?

I enjoy spending time with my two children, traveling, the cultural arts (symphony, theater, art, dance), and ballroom dancing. I always enjoy new experiences and meeting new people.