Step in the Shoes of CIOs

Inspired... Motivated... Driven... These were the three emotions I left with after attending my first WITI event, which was a CIO panel where 3 of 4 were women. The panel consisted of 4 strong individuals who all shared insightful stories that gave all attendees - about 100 women and a handful of brave men (I say brave because any guy wanting to be surrounded by that many strong willed women, takes guts) - a glimpse of what life is like through the lens of a CIO, while also sharing the challenges they faced and are still facing in their journey. In today's age of constantly changing technology, it was refreshing to get the perspective of leaders in the field.

The event was hosted by WITI (Women in Technology International), a global organization for women in technology. Their mission statement says it all:

... to empower women worldwide to achieve unimagined possibilities and transformations through technology, leadership and economic prosperity.

When I read this on their site, of course I had to go. It was perfectly aligned with my personal mission, it was as if I wrote it.

The event was held at the offices of Capital Group in Irvine, and their very own CIO, Julie St. John graced the panel with her insights in not only technology, but also a lesson on the positive impact of facing ones fears. No one would have ever guessed her fear used to be public speaking as she told her story so eloquently. Michelle Bergquist was the spark that lit the lights of each CIO, with her wittiness (pun intended) and amiable demeanor.

Sue-Jean Lin embodied what a CIO really is with her intellect and leadership presence. Her advice of "thinking global, but acting local" was brilliant, which is only one of the many insightful viewpoints she spoke about. It's no wonder she's CIO of Allergan. I have to give it up to Guy Thier, holding down the fort for the men. His passion as CIO for Arbonne, really shined and truly depicted his definition of his role, which was "always being on."

Carol Fawcett, CIO for Dell Software Group, said something that will now always follow me throughout my career, "Don't ever listen to one person's opinion." This quote alone should be the motto of many, especially women who are consistently undermined or overlooked in areas that are normally dominated by men. Though time has grown to a more even playing field in the battle of the sexes, many industries are still testosterone driven, including the two industries I love, video game and technology.

It is in the efforts of organizations like WITI that enable women to make their mark in this world, with high heels and all. Thank you WITI for being a guide as I take my steps in this challenging yet exciting road towards my vision... I'm just glad I have the option to do so in sneakers AND stilettos. :)

Opinions expressed by the author are not necessarily those of WITI.