Women in Tech Trailblazers: Authenticity Unleashed

Being an InfluenceHER


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Hey there, trailblazers! This week, Tiffany Benitez and Jordan Franklin are joined by Nicole McMackin, CEO of Irvine Technology Company, on the "Women in Tech Trailblazers" podcast. 


Nicole shares her remarkable journey from law to tech, aiming to bridge the gender gap. She's not just about leadership; she's changing the game for women in tech by focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion.


Right from the start, Nicole gets real about the authenticity challenges women face in tech, noting, “Staying true to yourself is crucial, yet challenging in a space where you're in the minority.”  This highlights the reality that the tech industry isn't always inviting. So, we need to buckle up, face our fears, and power through if we want to claim our space at the table.


With women bowing out of tech before hitting 35, Nicole is on a mission. She’s not just talking the talk; she's walking the walk with mentorship programs and leadership initiatives aimed at giving women the boost they need. And get this – she's turned her vision into action, uplifting over 550 women along her journey. 


We're all too familiar with the term "glass ceiling" and the difficulty of climbing the career ladder as women in tech. However, this is where the conversation gets really interesting. Nicole passionately argues against the notion of the glass ceiling, encouraging women to focus on their career goals and embrace challenges. That's a perspective we all need to embrace!


Here are the key takeaways:

(3:18) The challenge of authenticity for women in tech

(7:39) What's it like being a woman in a man's world?

(9:54) How can women support each other in tech?

(11:58) Why do 66% of women leave technology?

(17:31) Can empathy improve your communication?

(20:27) Is the glass ceiling just in our minds?

(22:25) How powerful are the stories we tell ourselves?

(24:23) How critical is mentorship for overcoming doubt?

(28:20) How can creating a women's group spark change?

(29:50) Your brand, your identity: define who you are


Tune into the episode now to know why our guest recommends us to push beyond our comfort zones. Her conversation is not just informative; it's a powerful call for women in tech to empower themselves and one another.


About Nicole McMackin

Nicole McMackin is the CEO of Irvine Technology Corporation, where her leadership emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion. She brings a unique blend of enthusiasm and positivity to her work and personal life, always aiming to empower others. Under her guidance, ITC has made significant strides in promoting women and people of color to leadership roles, earning recognition for its diversity efforts. Additionally, Nicole founded the ITC Women in Leadership program, dedicated to advancing women's careers into executive positions.


Contact Nicole McMackin at: 

LinkedIn 

Irvine Technology Corporation


About Tiffany Benitez & Jordan Franklin

Tiffany Benitez leads IT Applications at Tyson Foods, focusing on Product & Agile methodologies and promoting the advancement of women in tech and STEM areas.


Jordan Franklin, CEO of Gumption and Stratice, is revolutionizing the job market with behavioral AI, making talent acquisition efficient. She's celebrated as a top staffing influencer for three years.


Connect with Hosts: 

Tiffany’s LinkedIn

Jordan’s LinkedIn 


Disclaimer

This podcast is for informational purposes only. The content should not be taken as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with professionals regarding specific situations or concerns.

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Women in Tech Trailblazers: Authenticity UnleashedBy Tiffany Benitez and Jordan Franklin