From Operations to Innovation: Dr. Xochitl Gonzalez's Tech Transformation

Wisconsin Tech Month Podcast Series

Dr. Xochitl's journey through the tech landscape offers a rich narrative filled with insights and inspiration for women navigating similar paths. She began her career in a corporate setting, where her role primarily entailed tech operations and administrative functions. It was here that she developed an innate curiosity about technology and its processes, leading her to ask pivotal questions about the systems she encountered. This curiosity served as the catalyst for her transition into a more technology-focused role at Northwestern Mutual, where she initially struggled with her self-identification as a woman in tech due to her non-engineering background. However, her peers encouraged her to embrace her tech-savvy nature, marking the beginning of a significant shift in her professional identity.

Takeaways:

1. Dr. Xochitl emphasizes the importance of curiosity and asking questions in tech careers.
2. Her unique journey illustrates that one doesn't need a technical background to succeed in tech.
3. She highlights the challenges of understanding technical language and the power of learning.
4. The tech industry offers opportunities for women, and more women are entering the field.
5. Embracing new technologies can lead to improved efficiency and team success in operations.
6. Dr. Xochitl encourages newcomers to be comfortable with discomfort as a path to innovation.