Software Architect at One North
Tell us a bit about yourself and how you got started?
I grew up on a farm in downstate Illinois. I studied Computer Science in college, and I am currently a Software Architect at One North Interactive, a full-service digital agency. I began my career as a Java developer for 8 years before moving over to .NET developer since 2010.
What is the favorite part of working in the tech industry?
Solving problems, building relationships with clients and being able to lead others in navigating the challenges that technology offers.
Share some of your accomplishments within the Sitecore community?
Over the past 4 years, I have provided technical oversight, support, direction, and maintenance for over 40 of our client Sitecore implementations. I have worked directly with our clients and host numerous client training sessions on Sitecore backend capabilities. I have developed, executed and supported a high-quality Sitecore implementation of personalization for one of the largest certified public accounting and business advisory firms. Some of the highlights include: Rules-based personalization, implicit personalization, and experience analytics. This implementation has provided a foundation for our company and I am rolling out the same features for numerous other existing and prospective clients. I have created Sitecore modules and sample code, as well as posted best practices in the Sitecore community.
What challenges do you see for women in tech today?
The feeling of being outnumbered can be intimidating. It can inhibit confidence and possibly prevent women from feeling empowered to provide their perspectives and experiences. This results in lower visibility rate and can stunt career growth. When you’re brave, you empower others around you to be brave too.
Do you have any advice for women looking to start their careers in tech? What do you wish you had known?
I did not realize the true lack of women in technology in the workforce. In school, there were many females in my classes. I have worked for 4 different companies and not only have I been the minority, but I have also been 1 of 3 females in the technology department. With that being said, I actually have found it rewarding. I have always been respected in the workforce and have been provided with the same opportunities as others, if not more.