How can your association foster inclusive, empowering spaces that go beyond professional development to create real human connections?

In this episode of Associations Thrive, host Joanna Pineda sat down with three Association Women Technology Champions (AWTC) leaders:

• Rebecca Achurch, CEO of Achurch Consulting and Secretary-Treasurer, Founder and Incoming Chair of AWTC
• Gretchen Steenstra, Director of Client Strategy at DelCor Technology Solutions and Past Chair and Founder of AWTC
• Jill Treby, Director of Membership at the American Association of Immunologists (AAI) and Chair of AWTC

They discuss:

• The founding and 5-year growth of AWTC as a community for women passionate about technology and leadership in associations.
• Why “champions” is a verb in AWTC’s name and what it means to be one.
• The evolution of AWTC’s signature event, Advance, and how it blends networking, learning, and personal development.
• How the Situation Room format during Advance fosters fast, impactful problem-solving through diverse perspectives.
• AWTC’s unique, inclusive membership model: free to join, with optional donations, and no barriers to entry.
• A growing recognition and awards program that celebrates women doing excellent work at all levels, not just lifetime achievers.
• AWTC’s commitment to access and belonging, including scholarship rates and no-cost virtual programs.
• The critical role of male allies and volunteers in supporting AWTC’s mission.
• How local groups (like in Chicago and Denver) are forming organically, expanding AWTC’s reach.
• Their excitement for 2026: expanded programming, deeper engagement, and a sustainable model that empowers volunteers to lead.

References:

• AWTC Website
• AWTC on LinkedIn
• AWTC Advance 2025