Women's History Month: Q&A with Tracy Holtz

Tell me a little bit about yourself.  I was born in Norristown, PA but moved to Florida at an early age, so I don’t recall much PA other than having a pony. I was blessed to have amazing parents growing up until my early 20’s when my mom passed away unexpectedly from a brain aneurism that forever changed my life. We spent our childhood spending time camping, watching my dad race stock cars, and being outside. In my late 20’s, I began working for a small components distributor who provided me an opportunity to learn various roles in the company such as finance, data entry, parts maintenance, and doing fax blast (shows my age). When one of my close friends started working at Tech Data, she encouraged me to shadow and learned more about the company and potential career opportunities, which 24 years later has provided me tremendous growth opportunities. I started my career in finance then moved to vendor management, managing software, cloud, and cybersecurity vendors. I’ve always been passionate about cybersecurity and enjoy spending time educating children and adults on safety tips as well as current trends. Lastly, on a personal note, I met my husband, Rick, through friends, and will celebrate our 25th anniversary this December. We have two cats and a dog (Murphy). I enjoy crafting, camping, Disney, and spending time at our NC Mountain house.  

What’s a typical day like for you?  My days are filled with new vendor recruitment calls and vendor meetings, project conference calls, customer zoom meetings followed by presentation slide decks, spreadsheets, business tracking dashboards, and time with my leadership team doing 1:1s. Every day is slightly different, but lately have been trying to manage my calendar better and hold “Tracy” time preciously.

How do you motivate yourself and stay motivated? I believe Maria recently mentioned life is precious, which also drives me motivationally. When you lose a family or friend at an early age, it gives you deep respect that life is fragile and enjoy each day to its fullest. Also, I keep myself motivated by recognizing that I am blessed for my life, what I get to do and cherish friends and family. I keep a daily checklist and begin my day reviewing previous items not crossed off to stay on track with deadlines given the volume of meetings we all do daily. Lastly, I love to read so often you will find leadership books on my kindle and/or motivation quotes on my desk. 

Have you ever wanted to try an activity that is considered “for girls” or “for boys” only? Did you try it anyway? How did you feel? Great question - Growing up, my dad was blessed with two girls, so we were raised doing several “boys” activities such as riding dirt bikes, four-wheelers, and racing go-karts. Ultimately, I was not very coordinated athletically, so I didn’t play many sports, although I’m an avid sports fan and love going to football, baseball, and hockey games. I learned at an early age of 8 being a ballerina wasn’t my trade either (LOL).  

What are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?  Given the past year living through this pandemic, more women have decided to leave the workplace or step down. Also, 1 in 4 are contemplating leaving their role today, which is concerning. The past year has been challenging for everyone while not only isolated to women; women are expected to play multiple functions such as virtual teacher, mother, wife, and professional, which has created heightened stress across the globe. We all own changing the outcome, which has to start with all of us as leaders representing flexibility, servant leadership, and leading with empathy.  

What’s an accomplishment that you are proudest of? When team members advance in the company and contributing to a small part of their professional growth. I was nominated a few years ago to CRN Woman of the Channel, a highlight and winning COE last year. Honestly, I was told once to own recognition because I wouldn’t own it historically and consistently referenced my team to contribute to my success. I firmly believe behind every good leader is a fantastic team! 

How did mentors influence your life? In many ways, but I have been blessed to have a strong network comprising of men and women who have mentored and influenced my life and career, for which I will always be thankful! 

What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders? Take full advantage of mentoring/coaching opportunities, never give up, and be told you can’t do something, but most of being original, be you! 

-Brian