From Human Services to Cybersecurity: A Tech Journey

Wisconsin Tech Month Podcast Series

Wisconsin Tech Month Podcast Series

23:28

My guest today has been keeping us up to date with the current state of hiring for marketers on a quarterly basis, which has taken us on quite a roller coaster ride. Today we’re going to look at how marketing and communication execs are responding to the latest developments in the world while still needing to get their work done. To take a look at the latest here, I’d like to welcome back to the show Sue Keith, Corporate Vice President at Landrum Talent Solutions. About Sue Keith Sue Keith is Corporate Vice President at Landrum Talent Solutions. With deep expertise in navigating complex labor markets, Sue has a front-row seat to the evolving dynamics of marketing roles, hiring trends, and the broader implications of AI and economic uncertainty. RESOURCES Landrum Talent Solutions: https://www.landrumtalentsolutions.com https://www.landrumtalentsolutions.com This episode is brought to you by Landrum Talent Solutions, a national recruiting firm specializing in marketing and HR positions. https://www.landrumtalentsolutions.com Catch the future of e-commerce at eTail Boston, August 11-14, 2025. Register now: https://bit.ly/etailboston and use code PARTNER20 for 20% off for retailers and brands Online Scrum Master Summit is happening June 17-19. This 3-day virtual event is open for registration. Visit www.osms25.com and get a 25% discount off Premium All-Access Passes with the code osms25agilebrand Don't Miss MAICON 2025, October 14-16 in Cleveland - the event bringing together the brights minds and leading voices in AI. Use Code AGILE150 for $150 off registration. Go here to register: https://bit.ly/agile150 Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstrom Don't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://www.theagilebrand.show Check out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.com The Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company…

about a year ago 6:31

MP3•Episode home

Melisa reflects on her diverse experiences in various roles, from social work to her current cybersecurity internship, showcasing the versatility of a tech degree. She shares insights on how Wisconsin Tech Month has facilitated greater visibility and resources for women in tech, fostering a more inclusive environment. The discussion encourages listeners to embrace their unique paths, highlighting that success in tech isn't limited to traditional programming skills. Instead, it celebrates the diverse opportunities available, from digital marketing to project management, and emphasizes the value of interpersonal skills in the tech landscape.

Takeaways:

Importance of representation for women in the technology field.
Connecting humanities with technology can create meaningful impacts in our communities and industries.
Surrounding yourself with supportive women in tech can help overcome feelings of imposter syndrome.
The tech industry offers versatile opportunities across various fields like marketing and cybersecurity.
Believing in oneself and taking risks are crucial for success in the tech space.
Wisconsin Tech Month has increased visibility for women in technology and provided valuable resources.

23 episodes

From Human Services to Cybersecurity: A Tech Journey

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Takeaways:

Importance of representation for women in the technology field.
Connecting humanities with technology can create meaningful impacts in our communities and industries.
Surrounding yourself with supportive women in tech can help overcome feelings of imposter syndrome.
The tech industry offers versatile opportunities across various fields like marketing and cybersecurity.
Believing in oneself and taking risks are crucial for success in the tech space.
Wisconsin Tech Month has increased visibility for women in technology and provided valuable resources.

23 episodes

Tüm bölümler

1
From Manufacturing to IT: Lillian Zhou's Career Evolution 9:32

33 weeks ago9:32

9:32

This episode highlights the inspiring journey of Lillian Zhou, an IT program manager at Uline, as she shares her experiences and insights as a woman in the tech industry. Lillian discusses how her career began in engineering within a manufacturing facility and evolved into the tech space, driven by a desire to broaden her experience and embrace new challenges. She emphasizes the importance of passion in one’s work and encourages listeners to pursue what they love. Lillian also shares valuable advice for those entering the tech field, including the significance of taking on new assignments, giving grace to others, and helping each other grow through mentorship. Her journey illustrates the profound impact of diversity and collaboration in driving innovation within the tech landscape. Takeaways: Lillian emphasizes the importance of following your passions and loving what you do. Taking on new assignments can provide valuable experiences and help you grow professionally. Diversity and respect in the workplace are crucial for fostering a positive environment. Mentorship and coaching others can significantly impact the growth of individuals in tech. Understanding personal journeys and giving grace to colleagues enhances teamwork and collaboration. Working with talented individuals in tech inspires innovation and problem-solving every day.…

1
From Problem Solver to Project Manager: Shravi Gopu's Tech Evolution 8:30

33 weeks ago8:30

8:30

Shravi Gopu discusses the importance of problem-solving and the diverse opportunities available in tech beyond just programming, highlighting roles such as user experience design and project management. Shravi reflects on her experiences as one of the few women in her engineering classes and emphasizes the supportive environment at Uline, where initiatives like women in IT foster mentorship and collaboration. She also shares her recent successes as she transitions into an IT project manager role, demonstrating the positive impact of hard work and passion in career growth. Listeners will gain valuable insights into entering the tech field, the significance of curiosity, and the importance of finding a fulfilling career path that brings joy and satisfaction. Takeaways: Shravi emphasizes the importance of problem-solving skills in pursuing a tech career. Working in tech offers diverse roles beyond programming, which appeals to various skillsets. Uline's women in tech program provides mentorship and support for women in the industry. Being curious and finding a passion are vital for success in the tech field. Shravi encourages women to connect and seek support through platforms like LinkedIn.…

1
From Courtrooms to Code: Inspiring Women in Tech with Karen Renee 9:22

33 weeks ago9:22

9:22

Karen Renee shares her personal experiences of overcoming initial doubts about her role in the tech space and how she has grown to thrive in it. She notes that women are becoming vital contributors to technology, inspiring future generations of girls to pursue careers in this area. The support from local communities, particularly in Milwaukee, plays a crucial role in fostering this growth, creating an environment where women can share their challenges and successes. Karen’s insights reflect a broader societal shift, where technology is no longer seen as an exclusive domain for men, but as a collaborative field where women can excel and lead. Takeaways: Karen emphasizes the need to be patient in the tech development process. Creating a solution to a real problem in the legal industry can drive innovation. Women in tech are increasingly supported by communities, which fosters growth and collaboration. Karen reflects on her unexpected journey into the tech industry with enthusiasm. Success in tech often comes from recognizing a market need and addressing it effectively.…

1
From STEM to Success: How Sam Billetdeaux Innovates in Engineering 7:33

33 weeks ago7:33

7:33

Sam Billetdeaux shares her inspiring journey in the tech industry, highlighting the unique challenges and successes she has faced as a woman in electrical engineering. With only 13% to 15% of undergraduate electrical engineers being women, she discusses the importance of finding a supportive company culture, which she found at Milwaukee Tool. Sam reflects on her experiences balancing work and motherhood, emphasizing that her ability to adapt and redefine her normal has been a key to her success. She also underscores the excitement of tackling new challenges in tech and the satisfaction that comes from solving complex problems. Takeaways: Sam highlights the importance of supportive company culture for women in tech. Reflecting on personal growth is essential for recognizing accomplishments in one's career journey. Women in electrical engineering face unique challenges but can drive innovation through their perspectives. Balancing work and motherhood can be challenging, yet it's a significant success for women professionals. Leadership roles in tech allow individuals to coach and support their teams through challenges. Constant challenges in tech keep the work engaging and foster continuous learning and development.…

1
From Dreams to Reality: A Metallurgist's Tech Journey with Jinxia Li 7:03

33 weeks ago7:03

7:03

Jinxia Li shares her journey in the tech industry, starting from her early education in material science and engineering in China. She highlights the challenges of being one of the few women in her field, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and setting clear career goals. Her experience as a metallurgist at Milwaukee Tool showcases her accomplishments in managing a lab that supports over a thousand engineers and her commitment to improving processes and safety. Takeaways: The journey of women in tech often starts with education and overcoming fierce competition. Empathy and attention to detail are unique strengths that women bring to the tech industry. Finding one's core values and setting clear career goals is crucial for success. Technical skills are important, but soft skills like emotional intelligence are equally vital. The tech industry is constantly evolving, encouraging a mindset of continuous learning and humility. Completing significant goals in a technical role builds confidence and capability for future challenges.…

1
From Operations to Innovation: Dr. Xochitl Gonzalez's Tech Transformation 9:10

33 weeks ago9:10

9:10

Dr. Xochitl's journey through the tech landscape offers a rich narrative filled with insights and inspiration for women navigating similar paths. She began her career in a corporate setting, where her role primarily entailed tech operations and administrative functions. It was here that she developed an innate curiosity about technology and its processes, leading her to ask pivotal questions about the systems she encountered. This curiosity served as the catalyst for her transition into a more technology-focused role at Northwestern Mutual, where she initially struggled with her self-identification as a woman in tech due to her non-engineering background. However, her peers encouraged her to embrace her tech-savvy nature, marking the beginning of a significant shift in her professional identity. Takeaways: Dr. Xochitl emphasizes the importance of curiosity and asking questions in tech careers. Her unique journey illustrates that one doesn't need a technical background to succeed in tech. She highlights the challenges of understanding technical language and the power of learning. The tech industry offers opportunities for women, and more women are entering the field. Embracing new technologies can lead to improved efficiency and team success in operations. Dr. Xochitl encourages newcomers to be comfortable with discomfort as a path to innovation.…

1
From Curiosity to Career: Catina Zautner's Tech Odyssey 7:03

33 weeks ago7:03

7:03

Catina Zautner's narrative is a testament to the evolving role of women in the tech industry. She shares her personal journey, which began at a law firm and has continued through various roles in IT, showcasing how her early interest in technology laid the groundwork for her career. Catina’s story is particularly poignant as she reflects on her childhood experiences with computers at school, where her curiosity often went unrecognized by her peers and teachers. This early drive to engage with technology set her on a path filled with challenges, particularly as a woman in a field that has historically been male-dominated. Takeaways: Catina Zautner's journey in tech began in childhood, driven by curiosity about computers. Despite challenges as a woman in a male-dominated field, Katina persevered and succeeded. Exploring the vast opportunities in tech beyond just programming is essential for newcomers. Soft skills are as critical as technical skills in navigating a successful tech career. Catina emphasizes the importance of proving one's capabilities, especially as a woman leader. Connecting with others in the tech community can provide invaluable support and learning opportunities.…

1
From Piano to Programming: Bella Zamborini's Tech Story 9:15

33 weeks ago9:15

9:15

This podcast episode highlights the inspiring journey of Bella Zamborini, who navigated the tech industry, starting from her unexpected entry into the field due to her father's encouragement. As a first-generation immigrant, she transitioned from aspiring piano performer to a tech professional, sharing her experiences as one of the few women in her computer science classes. Throughout the conversation, she reflects on the challenges and surprises she faced, particularly regarding stereotypes and assumptions about women in technology. Despite these hurdles, she expresses excitement about the rapid growth of technology, particularly in AI, and encourages newcomers to embrace risk and innovation in their careers. The episode concludes with her advice for aspiring tech professionals to become experts in emerging technologies to stay relevant in a constantly evolving industry. Takeaways: Bella Zamborini shares her journey into tech, which was influenced by her father's encouragement and the rising importance of computers. Despite being the only female in many of her classes, she felt comfortable pursuing her passion for technology. Surprises rather than challenges defined her experiences as a woman in tech, encountering dated stereotypes and assumptions along the way. Bella expresses excitement about the rapid advancements in technology, particularly in AI and automation, and its implications for the future. For newcomers to tech, Bella's advice is to embrace riskier technologies that have potential for growth and innovation.…

1
From India to the US: Sowmya Tiramdasu on Navigating the Tech Landscape 12:51

33 weeks ago12:51

12:51

Sowmya Tiramdasu’s narrative in the Women in Tech podcast encapsulates the essence of perseverance and empowerment in the tech industry. From her early days as an undergraduate student fascinated by programming to her role as a software developer at Infosys, Sowmya’s journey is marked by determination and adaptability. She shares the pivotal moment when her interest in programming blossomed through a final year project in Java, which ultimately set her on a path toward a successful career in IT. Takeaways: The podcast highlights women in tech, celebrating their journeys and the impact they create. Sowmya's journey began with an interest in programming during her undergraduate studies. Navigating cultural differences was a significant challenge for Soumya when moving to the US. Confidence and seeking help are crucial for those entering the tech field today. The tech industry is ever-evolving, providing constant learning and opportunities for growth. Sowmya emphasizes the importance of standing tall in male-dominated environments during meetings.…

1
From Social Studies to Tech Leadership: A Unique Career Path 13:25

33 weeks ago13:25

13:25

This episode highlights the inspiring journey of Kaitlyn Wright, who transitioned from being a social studies teacher to the Technology Director at Seeds of Health, an organization dedicated to education. She shares her experiences and challenges as a woman in a male-dominated field, where she often faced assumptions about her capabilities based on her age and gender. Despite these obstacles, she emphasizes the strong support she receives from her organization, which was founded and is led by women. The conversation also delves into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on education, showcasing how her proactive professional development initiatives prepared her staff to adapt quickly to virtual learning. Ultimately, she advocates for continuous learning and encourages women to confidently share their ideas and take up space in the tech industry. Takeaways: The journey into technology can be unconventional, starting from a non-tech background like education. Supporting staff through professional development is crucial for adapting to technological changes. Women in technology often face challenges of being underestimated or mistaken for support roles. Embracing change and continuous learning are essential skills for success in tech careers. Real-world experiences, such as the COVID-19 shutdown, can accelerate tech adaptation for educators. Creating engaging professional development initiatives can empower educators to effectively use technology.…

1
From COBOL to Digital Commerce: Adrienne Hartman’s Tech Journey 7:37

33 weeks ago7:37

7:37

Adrienne Hartman’s journey into the tech industry is a testament to the evolving landscape of technology and the increasing presence of women within it. Beginning her career as a COBOL developer over three decades ago, Hartman navigated a male-dominated field where she often faced the challenge of being the only woman in the room. Her experiences illustrate the significant changes that have occurred in the industry, noting that while the early days were marked by obstacles, recent years have fostered a more supportive and inclusive environment. Hartman’s work with Women in Technology Wisconsin exemplifies her commitment to mentoring and uplifting other women, establishing a network that spans from school-age girls to seasoned professionals. Takeaways: Adrienne Hartman emphasizes the importance of being your authentic self in the tech industry. Women in technology face challenges such as being overlooked in decision-making roles in meetings. Building a network of women supporting women has significantly improved the tech landscape. Hartman highlights the continual change in tech as a key factor that keeps her engaged. Finding a supportive affinity group is crucial for personal and professional growth in tech. Adrienne encourages exploring lateral moves within companies to gain broader experience and skills.…

1
From Non-Traditional to Tech Leader: Rashi's Inspiring Story 9:43

33 weeks ago9:43

9:43

This episode features Rashi Arora Khosla, a non-traditional entrant in the tech world who shares her inspiring journey from self-taught coder to entrepreneur. Rashi emphasizes the importance of balancing work and life, particularly as a woman in technology, and discusses the challenges she faced, including imposter syndrome and the struggle for representation. She reflects on her decision to start her own company, Marsolutions, after realizing many women were forced to take breaks from their careers. Through her work, Rashi has launched initiatives to help women return to the tech workforce, demonstrating her commitment to empowering others. Her passion for technology and its impact on society shines through as she encourages aspiring technologists to blend technical skills with business acumen. Takeaways: Rashi Arora Khosla highlights how her non-traditional entry into tech fueled her passion for the field. Challenges as a woman in tech included work-life balance and overcoming imposter syndrome. She emphasizes the importance of soft skills alongside technical skills for success in technology. Khosla founded a program called returnship to help women re-enter the tech workforce after breaks. The fast-paced evolution of technology offers constant learning opportunities and significant societal impacts. She advises aspiring technologists to focus on applying technology to solve real business problems.…

1
From Dot Com to Digital Inclusion: Jessica Scadron's Tech Story 8:23

33 weeks ago8:23

8:23

This podcast episode features Jessica Scadron, vice president of strategic partnerships and communications at Everyone On, who shares her inspiring journey in the tech industry. Jessica discusses the challenges and successes she has faced as a woman in a historically male-dominated field, highlighting the ongoing disparities in funding for women-led initiatives. She reflects on her beginnings in the late nineties during the dot-com boom and her evolution into roles that focus on digital inclusion and community empowerment, particularly for underrepresented groups. The conversation emphasizes the importance of innovation and problem-solving in tech, as well as the transformative impact of digital skills training on individuals and communities. Jessica also offers valuable advice for those entering the tech field, encouraging them to balance passion with stability and to remain open-minded about various career paths within the industry. Takeaways: Jessica Scadron's journey in tech began in the late nineties during the dot-com boom. The tech industry has become more inclusive, yet challenges still persist for women leaders. Significant successes include launching initiatives that support women's education and digital skills training. Innovation in tech is vital, with opportunities to create impactful change for underserved communities. Jessica emphasizes the importance of balancing passion for tech with stability in one's career. Networking and continuous learning are crucial as tech evolves rapidly and job markets fluctuate.…

1
From Accidental Beginnings to IT Leadership: Phyllis Mothiba's Story 6:26

33 weeks ago6:26

6:26

This podcast episode celebrates the journey of Phyllis Mothiba, a woman who has transitioned into the tech industry from an engineering background. She shares her experiences as a woman in a predominantly male field, highlighting both the challenges and successes that have shaped her career over nearly 20 years. Phyllis emphasizes the importance of finding one's voice and becoming comfortable in leadership roles, while also encouraging other women to pursue opportunities in tech. She expresses her love for the fast-paced nature of the industry, where every day brings new challenges and learning experiences. Takeaways: Phyllis Mothiba's journey into tech began unexpectedly despite her background in industrial engineering. She emphasizes the importance of women bringing their unique voices to the tech industry. Comfort in expressing one’s thoughts and leadership is a significant challenge for women in tech. The fast-paced nature of the tech industry is both a challenge and an opportunity for growth. Phyllis encourages newcomers to embrace challenges and be open to continuous learning. Networking and connecting with others can greatly enhance your professional growth in tech.…

1
From Administrator to Innovator: Busissi Wengana's Tech Journey 6:23

33 weeks ago6:23