Last week, Minnesota Women in Tech (MNWiT) celebrated three Pioneer Women in Tech during an event at Code42. These pioneers are all working diligently in their day-to-day to ensure that women from all backgrounds and abilities are able to find their way in the Minnesota tech landscape. Here’s a brief look at what makes them exceptional members of our community.
Sue Ann Rodriguez — WeCo
Sue Ann manages a team of testers for WeCo to ensure that websites, applications, and documents can be used by people of all abilities. As a manager, Sue Ann expects a lot from her team, but also provides the support and assistance needed to be successful in the industry. She is an incredible asset to the team, and it’s clear hat her coworkers and the company management truly love working with her.
Heide Antholz — Total Expert
Heide spent a good number of years as the only woman in the companies she worked for. That experience has given her the strength to deal with all sorts of adversity and ample insight to pass on to the women she is now working with at Total Expert. Heide mentors women throughout the organization to help them find work balance, stand up for themselves in meetings and negotiations, and to make sure they know they have somewhere to turn when they’re dealing with professional and personal issues.
Devan Sayles — General Mills and Aspirations in Computing
Devan is a Data Engineering Manager for General Mills, and also serves as the event and community coordinator for Aspirations in Computing (AIC). Through her work with AIC, Devan encourages young girls to get into technology and pursue education and careers in technical fields. She is a prime example of what can be achieved with hard work and determination.
This year broke the record for the number of women nominated. This is great momentum we’d like to keep going for 2020! The regular nomination period typically runs October through November, but MNWiT also hosts regular events throughout the rest of the year. You can email the organizers for more information.
