What was your first job and what did you learn from it?
In 1979, I joined IBM as a systems engineer, which is a sales support position. Here I learned much about technology and much more about customer service. The clients that I serviced then are the clients that I service today, primarily, Wall Street clients. Working for a large technology vendor directly out of college is a wonderful way to learn professional as well as technical skills. Most importantly, you learn that the customer always comes first!

Who is your hero, mentor or person you most admire? Why?
My mother is my hero and the person I most admire for her dedication to her children and her ability to inspire people. She brought me up to believe that I could accomplish anything I want. She taught me how to believe in myself.

What is your favorite book?
I have many favorite books, but my most recent find is "Write It Down, Make It Happen: Knowing What You Want - and Getting it" by Henriette Anne Klauser.

What advances in your field do you envision over the next 10 years?
In technology, one can hardly look out 10 years, but my crystal ball sees small devices (like a hand watch) that you carry everywhere that allow for any communication you can imagine, most likely within the ten year range.

What do you see as the single most interesting element of your work?
Negotiating win-win contracts. Every deal I cut has to be a perfect match for all parties involved and therefore is packaged for success.

What do you consider to be your greatest accomplishment?
Keeping balance in my life is my greatest accomplishment. Founding, owning and operating a multi-million dollar technology business in the heart of New York City with Wall Street clients takes a lot of energy and dedication. And I love it! Through it all, I have a wonderful husband and son, which I am able to cherish and with them I grow. I am also able to give back to the community as the Chair of Corporate Development for a nonprofit organization in New York City, Help a Mother, Save a Child, which is focused on saving young families from separation. I am thankful to have all of this in my life.

What was your greatest challenge and what did you learn from it?
My greatest challenge was returning to work after the birth of my son, Dustin. My husband and I, after much consideration, decided that with his support I would be able to be a good mother, wife and professional. My husband was right and there are no regrets today. My son loves to come to work with me whenever he gets the chance!

What strategies do you use to maintain balance in your life?
I have a few small, simple and effective rules. I take my vacations with my family. I limit the amount of business travel and I try not to be out on business at night more than once per week.

What advice would you give to young women who want to enter your field?
Work hard; never suffer your ethics. Believe in yourself and those that surround you and all good things will follow. Take you lumps with grace, because there are lessons in each one of them.