Heading To GHC 2019: Get To Know Tia White, Executive Director - Center for Machine Learning, Capital One

Get ready Grace Hopper Celebration 2019 attendees, I have another woman in tech you need to know! GHC is an incredible opportunity to connect with other women in tech - it is after all the world’s largest gathering of women technologists! But with 25,000 attendees descending on the Orange County convention center in Orlando, Florida for this year’s event, making vital career connections can be a challenge for some people. So I’m stepping in to help out by highlighting a few of the women in tech speaking at this year’s event – along with their tips on how to get the most out of GHC 2019

In this second women in tech profile, let me introduce you to: Tia White, Executive Director - Center for Machine Learning, Capital One. Tia is an engineering leader with technical skills grounded in coding and network engineering experience, who has spearheaded innovation initiatives from blueprint-to-execution. Her GHC 2019 session “Women in Tech Need Sponsors Too” is on Thursday October 3 (details below).

JKH: What did you study before starting your tech career?

Tia: I have a double major in computer programming and marketing (University of North Carolina at Greensboro). Technically, I’ve been in tech since college!

JKH: What is the one piece of technology you wish you had invented?

Tia: The internet. It changed everything about communication and information access/dissemination. Can you imagine a world without the internet?

JKH: Yes, I can. I’m that old.

JKH: What is the innovation you wish someone would create?

Tia: A computerized personal assistant that can do more intuitive things. While some exist for niche needs, I wish one existed to plan my day, run errands, etc. all proactively.

JKH: What are your top suggestion for making the most out of GHC 2019?

Tia: My top 5 are:

1.           Plan ahead of schedule so you can optimize time and be intentional

2.           Network, connect - don’t stick with the same people and go to the mixers, after hour events

3.           Stay connected beyond the conference. Use the LinkedIn feature that allows you to see people in physical close proximity with you, etc.

4.           Have fun!

5.           Share what you learned

JKH: Best way to connect with you at GHC 2019?

Tia: www.dhirubhai.net/in/tia-white-tech-transformation and @tiawhite2019 (twitter)

JKH: What’s one insight that you would want audiences to take away from your session?

Tia: Women tend to have many mentors, but we have far fewer (if any) sponsors when compared to men. The power and impact that maximize your relationships for action and output comes from sponsors.

JKH: What are some ways to find mentors in tech? 

Tia: I’m a firm believer we as women need to pull each other up and more importantly support each other non-stop. I believe sponsors are more impactful than mentors. There is this thing called PIE - Performance Image and Exposure. That is the best way to attract mentors, sponsors, advocates, etc. and keep them. During my session - Women in Tech Need Sponsors Too, I’ll cover a three-step approach to attract and secure sponsors.

JKH: Networking at work is often over-looked. Why is a strong network in the workplace good for your career? What are the ways to develop strong relationships with peers and co-workers?

Tia: Networks are literally how you get things done. I’ve been so successful because I know who to go to for what and people recognize me as a valuable information resource. I’ve developed my network mainly via volunteer efforts I’m passionate about such as Women in Tech organizations, ERNs, etc. This allows your reach to well beyond your day job. I also remember to always deposit into others. If someone helps me I’m always trying to ensure I’m ready to help them as needed and even proactively. Networking is also how I’ve gotten most of my jobs. I’ve literally only applied (blindly) for two jobs in the last 10 years. My networks help me proactively find opportunities that are great fits for me.: I know your GHC session focuses on sponsors, however, share some of the ways to find mentors in tech?

Starting your career in tech? Then be sure to get Tia’s #GHC2019 session “Women in Tech Need Sponsors Too” on your schedule.

Often find yourself heads down, fingers on the keyboard or supporting everyone else? Women in tech, more than ever, need someone to be their sponsor. We will discuss what mentorship and sponsorship are and how they differ. Recent research shows, we need voices in the rooms, women and male allies, to pound the table when we aren't there. Sponsors are the missing puzzle piece to career advancement.

Date: Thursday, October 3, 2019 | Start Time: 3:45 PM | End Time: 4:15 PM | Location: Hyatt Regency Ballroom O | 

My career thrives on collaboration, so I’m thrilled to partner once again with Capital One at GHC.

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