Connie Shoemake, one of the winners of Women In Technology’s Excellence in Corporate IT Leadership Award, is the VP of the Public Sector Sales organization for the Central Region at IBM. The judges of the award overwhelmingly recommended her based not only on her career achievements, but also on her commitment to mentoring and education. In our discussion, these shine through.

Q: Connie, you manage over $1 billion in sales revenue, yet have been able to keep your passion – education and mentoring – front and center in what you do. Can you talk to us about your path to where you are today?

Ms. Shoemake: In my current position, I am very fortunate to use my skills and passion as a past Special Education, K-12, adult GED teacher, and elementary school administrator. This background provides me with insights and understanding for my current role as a leader of the Public Sector at IBM. At IBM, Public Sector includes three industries: local and state government, K-12 / higher education, healthcare for those that are providers, insurance companies and pharmaceutical companies. Working with our K-12 and higher education institutions in our 14 state Central Region continues to be a wonderful way to leverage my past education and skill set.

Q: How is IBM active in supporting education?

Ms. Shoemake: IBM as a corporate citizen is very involved in an academic initiative which offers free software and curriculum for K-12 and higher education. IBM alumnae are often found recruiting, teaching and participating in our IBM Community Alumnae Program in countries around the globe.

Of course, IBM as a business offers a number of solutions for the education industry: specific solutions for security, digital video surveillance, student information systems, student and curriculum services as well as business intelligence, and consulting services in all areas. High performance computing is an area of great interest with our key research schools. Linking our government teams with education is a key solution for economic development at the state level.