How Katy Is Thriving as A Vice President in Technology

With her background in English, Katy never thought she would find herself with two decades of experience in the technology space. She began her technology career because “with my strong communication and collaboration skills, I found a niche in translating needs between the business units and technology.  This job of ‘translating’ became an asset in every company I’ve worked for.” 

Katy shares how Fisher has supported her in advancing her career, her recent promotion, and her advice for other women in technology.  

What led to your recent promotion from Team Leader to Vice President? 

In the years leading up to my recent promotion, I focused on where I could add value and contribute to the team and firm. I celebrated every small win as progress rather than being frustrated if things weren’t going the way I planned.  I built strong relationships with peers and leadership, making it easier to get new projects completed.  

How would you describe your leadership style?  

Collaborative! I like to be involved in projects with my team so we can all work together towards the best possible solution.  I have high expectations of my team, but I balance those expectations with opportunities to stretch their skills, do new things, and support them if they fail.    

Why are you passionate about this type of work?

I get to work with teams from every business unit in the firm, providing a unique, broad perspective of how the firm runs. The technology space comes with a lot of complexity, new terms, and requirements. My team helps business units navigate the complexity, unfamiliar language, and common hurdles that slow down technology implementations.  It’s very rewarding to see my team highlighting these challenges, outlining the impacts, and contributing to improvements, helping the firm achieve more, faster.   

How do you stay up to date on trends in the technology space and continue to develop professionally?

Fisher provides great training resources!  Besides company-based training, there are in-depth and short courses I can take on many different topics.  I’ve taken project portfolio management refresher courses and attended an overview course on Azure platforms to understand the technology better.  

I’ve also been able to attend professional conferences, which have provided amazing opportunities to connect with other professionals in the field.  I love to read, so I can occasionally be found listening to an audiobook to help me level up my knowledge.  

How has Fisher supported you as an employee?

Through the benefits they offer! They pay 100% of your monthly medical premiums for individuals and their families. They also provide flexible work options to help me balance work and family.  I often depend on the work-from-home and flexible paid-time-off options to manage my family commitments throughout the year.   

As I moved into my Vice President role, I found the transition much easier because there are so many women in upper management at Fisher. I’ve connected with a few peers from around the firm to share challenges and solutions, creating a safe, comfortable space to share and mentor. 

Do you have any advice for women looking to break into tech? 

All skills have value! You don’t need to be overly technical to thrive in Technology.  Find your niche, capitalize on it, and then expand those skills!  Also, don’t be afraid to speak up if you have an idea. This reputation got me volunteered to manage many critical projects and facilitate important discussions throughout my career! 

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