An Open Letter to Every Girl Changing the World through Code

Earlier this month, I had the privilege of speaking at the Girls Who Code 2019 Clubs Graduation in New York City. I was invited to share my own story of how I entered the tech world – to ultimately inspire these young students. As I listened to them present their projects on stage, I saw an undeniable light in their eyes. To every girl who completed this program and is currently enrolled in the program, you have inspired me with your confidence and passion to change the world through code. As Vice President and Chief Information Officer at United Technologies, I am able to – I am empowered to – create innovative solutions for a global technology company. I have no doubt that every girl enrolled in Girls Who Code will be leaders at companies like UTC someday, committed to making a difference.

Hearing your stories instantly brought me back to when I first realized my passion for technology, specifically aerospace. I was about 12 years old, watching the highly anticipated NASA launch of the space shuttle Challenger. Within seconds, I witnessed one of the worst accidents in the history of aerospace. I felt such deep sadness, which later turned into a burning curiosity. What happened? What caused Challenger to fail? I needed answers. I knew that those answers were somehow rooted in technology. That’s when I realized my purpose in life. I knew from that moment that I could contribute – help provide solutions for the world’s challenges – through technology. That’s how I landed in software.

When you think about your future and your dreams, you’ll often find they’re shaped by a problem you want to solve, a difference you want to make, or something that you care deeply about. By enrolling in programs like Girls Who Code, you are making a commitment to learn skills that meaningfully contribute to the solution. As you take that journey, I want to give you three key things I’ve learned in my experience.

First and foremost, girls are awesome. In the words of Beyoncé – who runs the world? Girls. It’s the truth. But sometimes we don’t realize just how awesome, strong and capable we are. One of the quickest ways to realize your strengths is by taking risks – go out and seek adventure. Do things that challenge your abilities and force you to grow. This will help you gain confidence early on in life that will propel you forward in school, your career, and your personal life.

Number two – be committed to lifelong learning. Everything about the world is changing. Those who can learn and adapt will be the change makers. I know every member of Girls Who Code is a change maker because you recognize the potential within yourselves to achieve greatness. I urge you to learn beyond an academic setting and go out and experience life. I never thought I would climb the Himalayas – but I did. I never thought I would go to Puerto Rico to volunteer after the devastation from the hurricanes, but I did. I’ve done so many things that have pushed me outside of my comfort zone, and while I didn’t get a graduation ceremony at the end, I got something that may be better – I got stronger and braver.

And you can’t do these things alone. That’s number three – find your tribe. Form your sisterhood. Find other girls like you who you can help, who can help you and commit to make each other better. Find mentors and sponsors who you admire – people who you look up to and can learn from. Be someone who others can look up to and learn from. I promise you; you will get so much further in life when you do things together because success doesn’t happen alone.

With those three things, and a commitment to finding the challenge where you can help make the biggest positive impact, I can’t wait to see what our future looks like with you girls at the helm, leading the way. Congratulations and Godspeed!