September 25, 2024

VINCENNES, Ind. - The Vincennes University Information Technology Department hosted a Women IN Tech Symposium and Showcase on Sept. 18, as part of the state of Indiana’s Women IN Tech Week, celebrated from September 15-22, 2024. This dedicated week highlighted the extensive contributions of women in the technology industry and inspires future generations of women to pursue careers in technology fields.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports overall employment in computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations from 2022 to 2032, according to the Women IN Tech Week website. About 377,500 openings are projected each year, on average, in these occupations due to employment growth and the need to replace workers who leave the occupations permanently

VU Executive Director of Information Technology and Chief Information Officer Jaci Lederman said, "The Vincennes University Information Technology Department is honored to have hosted such an impactful event, and we hope this symposium will inspire more women to pursue and thrive in careers in technology. Women IN Tech Week is a powerful reminder of the achievements and contributions of women in technology, and this event celebrates their influence while fostering new opportunities for future leaders."

VU's keynote speaker, Leah Curry, retired Toyota executive and trailblazer in manufacturing and technology, delivered an empowering address to VU students, faculty, staff, and community members at the Red Skelton Performing Arts Center on the Vincennes Campus.

Curry emphasized women's critical role in driving innovation and reshaping the technology landscape. She urged the audience to step out of their comfort zone.

She said, "Push yourself to be uncomfortable and raise your hand for things you don't know anything about. See what it is about, and if you like it and if it is something you can do."

In addition to Curry's keynote, Mayor Joe Yochum announced a proclamation from the City of Vincennes.

Participants also engaged in an empowering industry panel featuring some of the leading women in technology, including Lederman, pictured above on the left.

"If you are aspiring to do something, do it," Lederman said. "Don't follow the crowd. Don't fear being alone or thinking you're going to lose your friends. It's your journey to take."

The panel discussed women's challenges in the tech industry, shared insights on their success, and highlighted opportunities for the next generation of leaders. The panelists provided inspiration and valuable advice on excelling in the tech industry.

The symposium culminated with a Tech Showcase throughout campus, allowing participants to explore the latest technological innovations and engage in hands-on activities. The showcase featured virtual reality demonstrations, gaming programming, collaborative robot demonstrations in the Center for Applied Robotics and Automation (CARA) at VU, and more. These activities showcased emerging technologies and highlighted the many opportunities for women in these areas.

The Women IN Tech Symposium and Showcase at VU served as an important platform for education, networking, and empowerment. It celebrated women in technology and encouraged ongoing progress in diversity, inclusion, and innovation across the industry.

VU Women IN Tech Symposium and Showcase Photo Gallery

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