In Technology

What led you to a career in technology?

I got here by accident. I started in Finance with E.F. Hutton in Texas, moved to New York City, and, through coincidence or sheer dumb luck, I wound up working for AT&T Information Systems at Two World Trade Center on the 72^nd Floor as a customer representative for the Wall Street Brokerage Firms. That was the start of an amazing journey to where I am today.

What motivates you to go above and beyond in your current position?

Loving what I do. I’m amazed at technological advancements and the possibilities of an improved, sustainable future.

What role does sustainability play in your life both personally and professionally?

It’s absolutely a huge part of my life — living a sustainable lifestyle; minimizing consumption; reducing waste; and reusing, repurposing, and recycling where ever possible.

What is the most fascinating lesson you have learned while working with technology?

No one knows everything, and there is always something new to learn.  

What is unique about you personally?

I danced flamenco for 10 years (semi-professional).

What is unique about you professionally?

I don’t know if this is personal or professional, but I was the one of the first women selected for New York University’s Construction Management Program.

What is your most admirable quality?

I'm an optimist.

Why is diversity, equality, and inclusion necessary for this industry?

It takes so many professionals to make any industry viable, successful, and relevant. Technology touches every life, so every life must be represented as technologies evolve.

What aspect of the industry has the most potential for growth, and how can we accelerate that?

Liquid cooling technologies — and appreciating that the IT equipment does not need the same environment we need. As higher densities result in higher heat output, the time is now to embrace the fact that conventional air-cooled architectures are no longer sustainable in the higher densities. Closed-coupling of cooling architectures and bringing it onboard is where we can get to sooner than later.

Where does the industry need the most improvement, and what can we learn from the current shortcomings?

Recruitment. Popularizing the industry to the future stewards of the critical data of tomorrow. The high pressure, mission critical environment, where human error can cost millions of dollars, not to mention reputational damage to the organization and your job, all for a mistake … good luck selling that job to the youth of tomorrow.

When you imagine the future technology, what does it look like?

Great question! Lets, see … the Dick Tracy watch phone exists, so check. The Jetson video phone exists, so another check there. Robots exist for various tasks (Boston Robotics), so check there too. Automation was forced forward with COVID and reduced manpower, so buildings go unmanned and building automation takes over minimal human intervention, so we’re good there, with artificial intelligence and machine learning. But … what I really hope to see is technology improving the quality of life above and below water. Our technology development effort should be focused on the ability to provide a sustainable life for future generations.

What advice do you have for women and other minorities who are currently working in the industry but don’t necessarily feel like they belong?

Everyone needs to be truthful with themselves about what their passions and weaknesses are as well as what they will tolerate and what they won’t. Set your boundaries, but know that experience, which is an asset, does not come easy often. Stick with it. Don’t give up.

What advice do you have for young girls who may be interested in a future career in technology?

Technology is an essential aspect of life and needs professional people from all areas of expertise to make the industry viable, relevant, and effective. Young women are embracing technology is so many ways, but, from a career perspective, this industry needs the perspective of women — the competitive edge will be how technologically savvy a candidate is. Thinking outside of the box to find new uses for software and services will know no bounds and provide endless opportunities.good there, with artificial intelligence and machine learning. But … what I really hope to see is technology improving the quality of life above and below water. Our technology development effort should be focused on the ability to provide a sustainable life for future generations.