30 Jul 2024

Q&A w/ Wendy Stewart, Senior Vice President of Sales Operations @ DataBank

Thanks so much for taking the time to speak with us, Wendy! First, please introduce yourself!

My name is Wendy Stewart, and I am the Senior Vice President of Sales Operations at DataBank. I have over 20 years of experience in the tech industry, with a focus on the data center industry in sales operations, account management, sales, and service delivery. Early in my career, I gained high-level network design experience in the carrier work, but for the last 20 years, my focus has been solely on the data center. Throughout my career, I've had the opportunity to work on exciting projects, lead diverse teams, and mentor aspiring tech professionals. I am passionate about promoting diversity and inclusion within the tech community and am committed to empowering women to achieve their full potential in this field.

What are you looking forward to at Women in Tech Texas?

I am incredibly excited to be part of Women in Tech Texas. It's always inspiring to be surrounded by so many talented and driven women who share a common passion for technology and innovation. I'm particularly looking forward to the opportunity to connect with other professionals, learn from the various sessions and speakers, and share my own experiences and insights. It's a fantastic platform to celebrate our achievements, discuss challenges, and explore new ideas that can drive our industry forward.

What can attendees expect from your session?

In my session titled "Destination Greatness: Inspiring Women in Tech to Pursue Greatness in Their Tech Journey," attendees can expect an engaging and empowering discussion. We will explore the unique challenges women face in tech, share success stories that highlight resilience and innovation, and provide actionable strategies for personal and professional growth. Key topics will include overcoming imposter syndrome, building a supportive network, navigating career advancement, and embracing continuous learning. My goal is to ignite confidence and inspire attendees to pursue their tech careers with determination and enthusiasm.

What would be your advice to other women in tech who are coming up in the industry?

My advice to women who are entering the tech industry is to embrace your uniqueness and never underestimate your value. Seek out mentors and allies who can support and guide you on your journey. Don't be afraid to take risks and step out of your comfort zone; growth often happens when we challenge ourselves. Stay curious, keep learning, and continuously update your skills. Most importantly, believe in yourself and your abilities—confidence is a key driver of success. Remember, you are not alone, and there is a whole community of women in tech who are rooting for your success.

Women in Tech Texas is built on community; what advice would you give to our attendees on building your network and furthering your presence?

Building a strong network is essential for career growth and personal development. I recommend actively participating in industry events, both online and offline, to connect with like-minded professionals. Don't hesitate to reach out to people you admire and ask for advice or mentorship. Engage in meaningful conversations, share your own experiences, and be open to learning from others. Join professional organizations and online communities related to your field to stay informed about trends and opportunities. Lastly, be authentic and genuine in your interactions—building lasting relationships is about quality, not quantity. Remember, your network is a powerful resource that can support you throughout your career journey.

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