4. Who has been the most influential person in your life? Why?
My father. He has always been an entrepreneur and involved in his own business initiatives. He instilled in me the ability to have faith in myself, be true to my vision, and remain flexible while persevering in the context of a changing environment.

5. What lessons have you learned that would be valuable to women beginning their careers in technology?
I think the biggest lesson is to be true to yourself and don't try to play by the rules that are determined by men. Develop your own rules and your own playing field. If you work hard, surround yourself with good, capable people and remain open to input, you will prevail.

6. What strategies do you use to maintain balance in your life?
I try to balance my work and family priorities. My 13 month-old son visits me in the office. I also schedule time in the day to spend time with him. Although I am very busy at work, I cherish the time with my family, so when I am at home, I try to devote myself 100% to them.

7. What new technology do you believe will have the most positive impact on the world in the next 20 years? The most negative impact?
I think the Internet is completely revolutionary and will permeate every aspect of our lives. Ultimately, it will enable us to do things quickly, to shop from the comfort of our home, and to hopefully spend more time with those that matter. The downside is that, as in all technology, there is a danger to sacrificing the face-to-face interaction that makes society tick.

Laurie McCartney answers these questions:
1. What was your first job in technology?
2. Who has been your most significant mentor? Why?
3. What has been your greatest challenge and what strategies did you use to overcome obstacles?
4. Who has been the most influential person in your life? Why?
5. What lessons have you learned that would be valuable to women beginning their careers in technology?
6. What strategies do you use to maintain balance in your life?
7. What new technology do you believe will have the most positive impact on the world in the next 20 years? The most negative impact?

On the lighter side:
1. If you could have dinner with any 2 people (living or not), who would they be?
2. Define success in 10 words or less.
3. If you could only subscribe to 3 magazines, what would they be?
4. What was the last book you read?