SOUTHFIELD, MICH., June 25, 2005 – Michigan Council of Women in Technology Foundation (MCWT) has named Lori Koza its executive director. She brings 20 years of MCWT volunteerism to the role along with 30 years of tech industry leadership.  

“Lori understands the tech industry inside and out – and one of the greatest opportunities is fueling the talent pipeline,” said MCWT President Judy Asher. “She’s long been a proponent of creating and supporting opportunities for women and girls to grow and thrive in tech careers. Her belief in MCWT’s mission – and her actions over the last two decades to bring that mission to life – makes her uniquely positioned to lead us into our next era of impact.” 

Koza, an active MCWT member since 2005, has volunteered on various MCWT programs, participated in mentoring and provided strategic counsel through the nonprofit’s advisory board. She brings knowledge of the tech industry at large with her background in enterprise software sales and business development across companies such as Amazon Web Services, VMware, CrowdStrike, ServiceNow, HP and Symantec. Her expertise spans cybersecurity, cloud computing, AI and digital transformation, having worked closely on such issues to deliver positive outcomes and business value. Over her career, she also has built and led businesses with an entrepreneurial spirit, driven by a passion to help organizations grow and engage with their communities.  

“MCWT is a key enabler for women’s careers, businesses’ success and Michigan’s economic resilience,” said Koza. “The organization is motivated by a big-picture vision of Michigan being the No. 1 state for women in tech and we have a comprehensive, pragmatic approach to convene diverse audiences who all play a role in getting there. I look forward to using this role to further deepen our relationships and power the programs proven to make a difference in inspiring and growing women in tech.” 

As executive director, Koza will help strengthen partnerships, expand programs, and lead MCWT’s continued growth while fostering community among members, volunteers, and corporate partners. She will lead alongside MCWT President Judy Asher, Vice President Anita Klopfenstein and the board of directors.  

With a vision to make Michigan the No. 1 state for girls and women in technology, the Michigan Council of Women in Technology Foundation delivers programming, scholarships, networking, learning, mentoring and robust technology experiences. Find more at mcwt.org and connect via LinkedIn and Facebook. 

# # #  

Editor’s note: Headshot of Koza can be found at mcwt.org. 

The post MCWT Names Lori Koza its Executive Director appeared first on MCWT.

SOUTHFIELD, MICH., Jan. 28, 2025 – Michigan Council of Women in Technology Foundation (MCWT) has named Judy Asher and Anita Klopfenstein as its new president and vice president, respectively. Their tech and leadership expertise will help advance MCWT as it continues to inspire and grow more girls and women in IT across the state. They are joined by MCWT’s diverse board of directors, who serve in two-year terms and help strategically guide the organization.  

Past president Grace Hansen, vice president of Global Change and Capability at Stellantis and longtime MCWT contributor and volunteer, will now serve on the advisory board.  

“MCWT is a convening force throughout Michigan – we are great at connecting people with an interest and stake in growing a thriving tech economy here,” said Asher. “Our community now includes 1,500 members – nearly 2/3 of which volunteer with us – and 192 partners who help us create transformative programs and positive outcomes for people and business.” 

Asher, senior director of enterprise architecture at Baxter International, has supported MCWT over the last 15 years in roles such as vice president and chief mission officer for university programs. Her work advocating for women in tech earned her the Woman of the Year in Technology award in 2018. She will also assume the role as MCWT’s interim executive director as of Jan. 17.  

Klopfenstein, global chief information and digital officer at Little Caesar’s and Ilitch Owned Companies, served on MCWT’s advisory board since 2023. She is responsible for strategic direction, development, deployment, and maintenance of technology across Ilitch Holdings companies, such as Little Caesars, Red Wings National Hockey Team, Tigers Major League Baseball Team and Little Caesars Arena.  

Klopfenstein was named Top Innovator at the Women in Foodservice Technology Awards in 2017; Michigan Global CIO of the Year by Inspire CIO in 2021; and CIO of the Year by Inspire CIO in the Enterprise Category in 2022.  

“I’m looking forward to helping MCWT create both a broader and deeper impact statewide,” said Klopfenstein. “There are always more people to reach, and we’re motivated to build from a strong 2024 where we hosted 40 experiences in service of empowering girls and women in tech.”  

With a vision to make Michigan the No. 1 state for girls and women in technology, the Michigan Council of Women in Technology Foundation delivers programming, scholarships, networking, learning, mentoring and robust technology experiences. Find more at mcwt.org and connect via LinkedIn and Facebook. 

# # #

Editor’s note: Headshots of Asher and Klopfenstein can be found at mcwt.org.

The post MCWT Names Judy Asher its New President appeared first on MCWT.

To qualify, the nominee must be a woman in Michigan who embodies MCWT’s mission of inspiring and growing women in technology. This individual will be honored for her leadership and drive in promoting and advancing opportunities for girls and women in technology careers or fields of study.  

“At MCWT, we love to recognize women who use their talent and time to positively impact Michigan’s tech community,” said Judy Asher, MCWT president. “This award program highlights the influential people working to help close the gender gap in IT, through innovative leadership, mentorship and a variety of other engaging ways. By sharing their stories, we elevate what’s working and what’s possible as we all continue to drive change.” 

People can submit in four categories: community impact, education, emerging leader and women empowerment. Last year, MCWT recognized the following tech leaders:   

• Gina King, chief vCISO, DiverseIT, encourages girls to explore possibilities in cybersecurity. She aims to close the gap between underrepresented communities and the tech sector.  

• Tamara Shoemaker, VP, CyberPatriot, co-founder Midwest CISSE Chapter, Buchanan School Districts, develops the capabilities of young women in cybersecurity as the Michigan director of the Airforce Association’s nationwide CyberPatriot program.  

• Shivani Raina, director – Automotive Data Products, Stellantis, founded the company’s Connect.Mentor program and pioneered Stellantis Connecting Women in Technology initiative to foster the development and empowerment of women in tech at Stellantis. 

• Christine Burkette, director – Digital Equity & Inclusion, City of Detroit, launched the “City of Detroit Certified Tech Hubs” that provide residents at or below poverty access to digital equity resources. She is CEO of PICF, Inc. and the Michigan Youth STEM, Tech & Aeronautic.  

Recipients do not need to be members of MCWT to win. Nomination forms are available on the nonprofit’s website. All submissions must be emailed to [email protected] by Feb. 14. There is no fee to submit. Nominations may be made by the nominee or by someone else on their behalf.   

MCWT will present the award at its International Women’s Day Celebration on March 28. The 2^nd annual event is centered on convening women tech entrepreneurs for professional development and networking.  

With a vision to make Michigan the No. 1 state for girls and women in technology, the Michigan Council of Women in Technology Foundation delivers programming, scholarships, networking, learning, mentoring and robust technology experiences. Find more at mcwt.org and connect via LinkedIn, Instagram  and Facebook. 

### 

The post Call for Nominations: Woman of the Year in Tech Awards appeared first on MCWT.

SOUTHFIELD, MICH., – Jan. 16, 2025 – The Michigan Council of Women in Technology (MCWT) Foundation is set to make a stop in Bay City as part of its Breakfast Roadshow – Fueling Futures in Tech Across Michigan, aiming to inspire and connect community members passionate about advancing women and girls in technology. 

The event will take place on Wednesday, February 5, from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the DoubleTree by Hilton Bay City – Riverfront. Attendees will enjoy a complimentary breakfast while hearing from local leaders, tech professionals, and women whose lives have been transformed through MCWT’s programs, which include scholarships, career development initiatives, and opportunities for students to explore the tech field. 

“Bay City’s strong community ties and potential for growth in the tech sector make it a key stop on our roadshow,” said Keith Crispen, Development Director of MCWT. “This event is an opportunity for us to foster connections, spark ideas, and empower residents to join us in shaping a diverse and thriving tech future for Michigan.” 

MCWT’s mission to advance women in technology is supported by initiatives ranging from K-12 programming to career reinvention, all designed to empower individuals and promote diversity in the tech industry. The roadshow provides an opportunity for Bay City residents to connect with these programs, as well as with industry leaders, educators, and advocates committed to driving change. 

Bay City’s stop on the tour is one of several across the state, including Lansing, Grand Rapids, and Detroit. Each event serves as a platform to share MCWT’s vision for 2025 and highlight how Michiganders can get involved as members, volunteers, sponsors, or advocates. 

Registration for the Bay City event is free and closes on January 24 at 11 p.m. Space is limited, so those interested in attending are encouraged to reserve their spot today at mcwt.org/events. 

For more information about the MCWT Breakfast Roadshow or how to support the organization’s mission, visit  mcwt.org and connect via LinkedIn, Instagram  and Facebook. 

About the Michigan Council of Women in Technology Foundation 
The Michigan Council of Women in Technology Foundation is dedicated to inspiring and advancing women and girls in technology. Through innovative programs, scholarships, and partnerships, MCWT is creating a more inclusive and dynamic tech community in Michigan. 

The post MCWT Brings Statewide Tech Tour to Bay City  appeared first on MCWT.

As we welcome 2025, we’re excited to begin another year of advancing women and girls in technology, building connections, and making a meaningful impact across Michigan’s tech landscape. 

Thank you to everyone who attended our first Quarterly Membership Meeting this past Wednesday! It was inspiring to see so many of you come together virtually to learn more about maximizing your membership benefits and connecting with fellow members. These meetings foster growth, collaboration, and meaningful connections within Michigan’s tech communities, and your participation makes it all possible.
Learn more about our memberships here. 

We also want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible strides we made together in 2024. Thanks to your support, we: 

• Hosted over 10 impactful fundraising and community events across Michigan, connecting tech educators, professionals, students, parents, and allies, while fostering meaningful collaborations. 
• Expanded our network to over 1,500 members and 192 partners, growing a vibrant and dedicated community of supporters. 
• Engaged over 550 volunteers at 40 experiences, empowering girls and women in technology through mentorship, hands-on activities, and leadership opportunities. 

These milestones were achieved thanks to your support. Let’s aim even higher in 2025 — spreading awareness and amplifying our impact across Michigan. 

Introducing the Breakfast Roadshow 

We’re especially proud to introduce our Breakfast Roadshow, a fresh evolution of our Executive Breakfast series. This Roadshow brings MCWT’s mission directly to communities across Michigan, ensuring that more people have access to our vision, values, and the opportunities we offer. It’s your chance to connect with like-minded individuals, learn about our goals for 2025, and discover how you can contribute to our shared success.  

This pivot reflects our commitment to inclusivity, accessibility, and creating a broader, deeper impact statewide. By meeting people where they are, we hope to inspire new connections, collaborations, and a stronger, united tech community.
Find your nearest city and register here. 

Your Support Makes the Difference 

This year, your donations will be key to fueling programs that inspire and grow the next generation of women in tech, from hands-on workshops to impactful mentorship opportunities. Every dollar counts toward building a stronger, more inclusive tech future. 

Donate today to help us make 2025 our most impactful year yet. 

Together, let’s empower innovation, leadership, and opportunity in Michigan’s tech landscape. We can’t wait to see you at the Roadshow and beyond! 

Warm regards, 

Michigan Council of Women in Technology Foundation 

Jan. 16, 2025 – Lansing Meet-Up (Virtual) 
Reimagine Business with Digital Transformation! 

Join our virtual Lansing Meet-Up to hear from Beka Skryniarz, Director of Finance at the MSU Foundation. During this session, she will share her expertise on driving innovation and navigating digital transformation in finance. 

We encourage you to invite a friend and connect with Lansing’s tech community—a group that inspires and empowers the state! 

Secure Your Virtual Seat Today

Jan. 18, 2025 – Girls Hack IT: Berrien County Kick-off 
Empowering Future Tech Leaders in Berrien County! 

MCWT’s Girls Hack IT invites high school girls in Berrien County to explore their creativity and build mobile app development skills in an exciting hackathon competition. With hands-on training, mentorship, and cash prizes — $1,000 (Gold), $600 (Silver), and $400 (Bronze) — this program empowers students to innovate and grow. 

Competition Timeline: 

• Jan. 7 – Feb. 22: Application Period 
• April 26: Finals Day at Lake Michigan College 

This free opportunity fosters confidence, tech skills, and brighter futures. Let’s inspire the next generation of tech leaders — spread the word and support this impactful program! 

Program & Application Details

Jan. 31, 2025 – Scholarship Application Deadline
Don’t Miss These Scholarship Drop-In Help Sessions! 

MCWT’s scholarships provide $2,000 to $5,000 in awards, plus mentorship and internship opportunities to help high school seniors and college women in Michigan launch their tech careers. 

To ensure applications are completed on time, we’re hosting virtual drop-in help sessions on Jan. 14 and Jan. 28 from 6:30 – 7:30 PM EST. These sessions are the perfect opportunity to get questions answered and receive guidance on the application process. 

Share this opportunity with future tech scholars and help shape the next generation of innovators! 

Program & Application Details

Feb. 23, 2025 – Detroit Red Wings Fundraiser
Hockey with Heart during Love Month 

Get ready for an unforgettable night of hockey, impact, and community! This is more than just a game — it’s an opportunity to unite Metro Detroit’s tech community in support of empowering women and girls in tech while inviting our male allies to join the movement and make a difference. 

Your ticket includes:

• Exclusive game seat to watch the Red Wings vs. the Ducks.
• A portion of the proceeds support MCWT’s mission to empower women and girls in tech.
• Access to MCWT’s table to learn more, get involved, and connect with others passionate about advancing women in tech. 

Don’t miss this chance to enjoy the game while making a difference!

Event & Ticket Details

Even though we’re in the thick of winter, now’s the perfect time to start thinking about summer!

This year, girls entering grades 5-12 (in the fall) can dive into the world of tech with hands-on experiences in coding, robotics, cybersecurity, and website design. With multiple camp locations across Michigan, each week-long session offers exciting opportunities to develop critical skills while meeting inspiring tech professionals. 

Mark your calendars — registration opens in February. 

Learn More & Find Your Camp Location

Volunteering with MCWT is an opportunity to directly impact the future of women in tech and strengthen Michigan’s tech community. We’re currently seeking volunteers for committee opportunities like: 

• Women TechPreneurs Committee Roles: Support and empower women entrepreneurs in Michigan’s tech sector through resources, community, and initiative-driven events. 
• Woman of the Year in Tech Committee Roles: Help recognize and honor outstanding women across various sectors of Michigan’s tech industry.  

Continue exploring our volunteer portal here and discover how you can get involved and make a lasting impact on women and girls in tech. 

The post Fueling Michigan’s Tech Future: A Fresh Start for 2025 appeared first on MCWT.

SOUTHFIELD, MICH., Jan.1, 2025 – The Michigan Council of Women in Technology Foundation (MCWT) is launching its Breakfast Roadshow: Fueling Futures in Tech Across Michigan, a dynamic initiative aimed at bringing the organization’s mission directly to communities statewide. For the first time, MCWT will expand its outreach to the Great Lakes Bay Region — including Bay City, Midland, and Saginaw — reflecting its commitment to inclusivity, accessibility, and empowering women and girls in technology. 

Building on the success of its Executive Breakfast series, this Roadshow will focus on advancing MCWT’s 2025 priorities—empowering more women and girls in technology, fostering diversity, and addressing Michigan’s growing need for tech talent—by creating opportunities for professionals, students, educators, and community leaders to connect, collaborate, and drive meaningful change within the state’s tech ecosystem. 

“We’re especially proud to introduce our Breakfast Roadshow, a fresh evolution of our Executive Breakfast series,” said Dr. Orletta Caldwell, Executive Director of MCWT. “By meeting people where they are, we’re ensuring more individuals have access to our vision, values, and opportunities to contribute to a stronger, more inclusive tech community in Michigan.” 

What to Expect at the Breakfast Roadshow 

• Engaging Presentations: Learn how MCWT drives tech innovation and empowers women in 2025. 

• Inspiring Stories: Hear personal accounts of lives transformed by MCWT’s K-12 education programs, scholarships, and career reinvention initiatives. 

• Networking Opportunities: Connect with local professionals, educators, and leaders dedicated to advancing diversity in technology. 

• Call to Action: Discover how to get involved as a member, volunteer, sponsor, or advocate. 

Tour Schedule 
Each event runs from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. in the following cities: 

• February 3: DoubleTree by Hilton Lansing – Lansing, MI 

• February 4: Canopy by Hilton Grand Rapids Downtown – Grand Rapids, MI 

• February 5: DoubleTree by Hilton Bay City – Riverfront – Bay City, MI (serving Bay City, Midland, and Saginaw) 

• February 6: Waterview Loft – Detroit, MI 

MCWT invites students, professionals, and community leaders to attend the Breakfast Roadshow to learn, network, and participate in shaping Michigan’s tech future. 

To register and find your nearest event, visit mcwt.org/events 

The post MCWT Launches Statewide Breakfast Roadshow appeared first on MCWT.

This season of giving has been a powerful reminder of the incredible community we have in you. Thanks to your generosity, GivingTuesday and Grand Rapids Day of Giving were truly impactful. Your support fuels our mission to inspire and empower women and girls in technology, and we are deeply grateful.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended last month’s annual Peacock Gala – your presence made it an unforgettable evening and helped us raise vital funds to further our mission.

We’re also celebrating the connections made at our statewide Meet-Ups. Thank you for showing up, engaging, and helping us strengthen our reach across Michigan. We’re excited to bring even more opportunities to connect in the new year — stay tuned!

As we continue through this special season, we’re energized by what we’ve accomplished together and look forward to the exciting possibilities ahead.

Warm regards, 

Michigan Council of Women in Technology Foundation

Programs to Support You at Every Stage of Your Journey 

Women in Cyber – Jan. 8, 2025, Deadline 

Take your cybersecurity skills to the next level with MCWT’s Women in Cyber program, a hands-on, gamified experience designed for professional women early in their cyber careers. This unique program helps participants master cybersecurity concepts, tools, and techniques through interactive simulations that build skills and confidence. 

You’ll earn badges, Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits, and gain proof of advanced cybersecurity experience for your resume. Plus, graduates will receive a 6-month mentorship with WomSA to further support their growth. 
Program & Registration Details 

Girls Hack IT – Jan. 11, 2025, New Deadline 
Encourage the 9th-12th grade girls in your life to join Girls Hack IT, MCWT’s statewide hackathon designed to inspire and empower future innovators. This dynamic competition blends creative expression with mobile app development, helping participants sharpen their coding, communication, and problem-solving skills. 

This year’s challenge is all about Improving Life at Home. Teams will develop innovative app solutions and compete for prizes, culminating in an exciting, in-person hackathon on March 15, 2025, at the University of Michigan Dearborn. 
Program & Application Details

Scholarship Applications – Jan. 31, 2025, Deadline 

This season, help us support future innovators in tech! High school seniors and college women in Michigan passionate about technology can apply for annual awards ranging from $2,000-$5,000, along with mentorship and internship opportunities to propel their careers forward. 

To make the process even easier, we’re hosting a drop-in help session on December 17 from 6:30 – 7:30 PM EST. Share this opportunity with a future tech scholar and help pave the way for their success! 
Program & Application Details

Jan. 8, 2025, 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. – Quarterly Membership Meeting 

Kick off 2025 by joining our Q1 Quarterly Membership Meeting! This is your chance to connect with fellow members, explore new opportunities, and maximize your membership benefits for the year ahead. 

Already a member? Sign up for the meeting here. 
Not a member yet? Learn more and join here to start your journey with MCWT. Let’s make 2025 a year of growth and success together! 

Feb. 3, 2025 – Feb. 6, 2025 – Breakfast Roadshow 

Fuel your morning with inspiration and opportunity at the MCWT Breakfast Roadshow, a statewide tour connecting community leaders, tech enthusiasts, and change-makers to explore how we can shape Michigan’s tech future in 2025.  

Join us for a complimentary breakfast and learn about MCWT’s programs, scholarships, and career development initiatives. Don’t miss out on the chance to connect with like-minded professionals, hear inspiring stories, and discover how you can get involved in driving change for women and girls in tech. 

Tour Dates: 

Feb. 3 – Lansing  |  Feb. 4 – Grand Rapids 

Feb. 5 – Bay City  |  Feb. 6 – Detroit  

Roadshow Event & Ticket Details

Feb. 23, 2025 – Detroit Red Wings Fundraiser 

We’re hitting the ice again for another unforgettable evening as the Red Wings take on the Ducks! 

Join us for a night of hockey and be sure to stop by our table on the concourse to connect, learn more about our work, and discover how you can get involved. A portion of the proceeds from this special event will support MCWT’s mission to empower women and girls in tech.

Fundraiser Event and Ticket Details

Looking to make a meaningful impact while gaining valuable experience? Volunteering with MCWT is your chance to contribute your time and talents to a cause that directly advances our mission to inspire and grow women in technology. From mentoring young minds to supporting events and driving initiatives, your efforts help shape the future of technology in Michigan. Join us in fostering a community dedicated to growth, innovation, and empowerment while experiencing the joy of giving back.

We’re currently seeking volunteers for exciting opportunities like: 

• Women in Cyber – Tech Savvy Tutors 
• Women TechPreneurs Committee Roles 
• Woman of the Year in Tech Committee Roles

Continue exploring our volunteer portal here and discover how you can get involved. 

Share Your Story with MCWT and Inspire Michigan!

If you have an inspiring MCWT experience to share, we’d love to highlight your journey and celebrate your success! Complete our Success Story interview form here and help us showcase the incredible impact of our community. 

The post Spark the Season with MCWT appeared first on MCWT.

SOUTHFIELD, Nov. 26, 2024 — The Michigan Council of Women in Technology Foundation (MCWT) is recognizing the second-year success of its Reignite! program helping women transition into Michigan’s tech workforce. This year, 20 women benefited from tailored professional development, mentorship and skills training designed to prepare them for careers in the evolving technology sector. 

Given the positive outcomes and new funding from the State of Michigan, MCWT will expand Reignite! from a single annual cohort to 10 cohorts of 40 women each across Michigan in 2025, increasing both accessibility and impact. 

The additional cohorts will offer personalized support, including career coaching, technology training, and networking opportunities designed to meet the unique needs of women reentering the tech field. The expansion supports MCWT’s mission to inspire and grow the number of women in technology and aligns with the State of Michigan’s efforts to strengthen the state’s tech industry. 

Maria Johnson, a Reignite! participant cultivating her entrepreneurial skills while transitioning back into the tech industry, says the 2024 program gave her confidence, tools and community. 

The Reignite program’s impact is exemplified by participants like Afolake Ayo-Vaughan, who is navigating the challenges of being a wife, mother, and budding entrepreneur while transitioning back into the tech industry. 

“Reignite gave me the confidence, tools, and community to navigate this transition,” said Ayo-Vaughan. “It’s empowering to know I’m not alone, and I now have a supportive network and clear direction for my career goals. The program has not only reignited my passion for technology but also equipped me with the skills to balance my personal and professional aspirations.” 

Kathy Morgan, the Program Officer at the Flagstar Foundation, a ReIgnite! corporate partner, expressed her organization’s commitment to the program’s mission. 

“Even though I’ve recently started with the Flagstar Foundation in Michigan, every time I interact with MCWT, I see how everyone’s passion shines through their programming, and it excites me to be part of this momentous change,” said Morgan. “At the Flagstar Foundation, we believe in empowering women to achieve their fullest potential and pivot into something new, especially in technology. We’re honored to support a program that not only strengthens the tech talent pipeline but also transforms lives by helping women reclaim their purpose and passions.” 

MCWT Executive Director Dr. Orletta Caldwell sees the program as a means to continue breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for women across Michigan in 2025. 

“As we look back on the success of Reignite’s second year, we’re reminded of the foundation on which MCWT was built – a commitment to empowering women in tech,” said Dr. Orletta Caldwell, MCWT executive director. “The growth we’ve experienced and the expansion we’re embarking on are testaments to the dedication of our participants, partners and the entire MCWT community.” 

About MCWT Foundation: The Michigan Council of Women in Technology Foundation is dedicated to inspiring and growing women in technology fields. Through programs, scholarships, and mentorship, MCWT aims to make Michigan the No. 1 state for women in technology. 

The post 20 Women Prepped for Tech Careers in MCWT’s Reignite! Program appeared first on MCWT.

Proceeds from the event will fund scholarships, mentoring programs, and educational initiatives designed to empower women and girls to thrive in the tech industry. “Empowering women in technology doesn’t just transform careers—it strengthens communities,” said Grace Hansen, MCWT president. “The generosity we’ve seen from our supporters will help us expand our programs and create even more opportunities for women at every stage of their tech journey, from students to established professionals.” 

Throughout 2024, MCWT demonstrated notable growth and impact, awarding $171,500 in scholarships to 31 students, reintroducing its biennial MICWIC conference for college women in tech, and growing its Women TechPreneurs initiative to strengthen women in tech and entrepreneurship across the state of Michigan.  

The gala highlighted the powerful impact of MCWT’s programs through testimonials from those directly benefiting from the foundation’s support. Rehab Jadallah, a scholarship recipient and student at the University of Michigan, shared how her journey into technology was shaped by her grandfather’s encouragement to defy societal norms.  

“My grandfather always believed I could make a difference in tech, even in a field dominated by men,” said Jadallah. “With the support of MCWT, and my mentor Victoria Jackson—a Senior Technology Leader at Comerica Bank—I’ve been able to push my limits, gain invaluable guidance, and find a community that truly believes in me. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities I’ve had, and I’m excited to give back by helping other young women break through the barriers in this industry.” 

The evening’s success was also made possible through the generous support of over 50 sponsors,  whose commitment to diversity and inclusion underscores the importance of women’s representation in the tech field. 

About MCWT Foundation: The Michigan Council of Women in Technology Foundation strives to inspire and grow girls and women in technology fields, with a vision to make Michigan the No. 1 state for women in technology. The organization supports Michigan’s female tech workforce, students, corporate partners, schools and the overall community with networking, learning, mentoring, and technology experiences for professionals and students. Find more information at www.mcwt.org and connect via Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube. 

# # # 

The post MCWT’s 16th Annual Signature Gala Raises $513,550 to Advance Women in Technology appeared first on MCWT.

As we enter this season of giving, I’m filled with immense gratitude for each of you and the passion you bring to advancing women and girls in technology. This time of year offers us a unique opportunity to reflect on all we’re thankful for—from our dedicated members and partners to the incredible young women shaping the future of tech in Michigan.

Today, we look forward to seeing many of you at our annual Gala, our biggest fundraising event of the year. Together, we can make a lasting impact and continue to grow the support, resources, and programs that empower the next generation.

In the spirit of giving, let’s celebrate our achievements and look toward a future where we all thrive. Thank you for being an essential part of this journey and the MCWT lifecycle.

With gratitude,

Dr. Orletta Caldwell
Executive Director, MCWT 

Celebrating Cybersecurity Month
Inspiring Future Tech Leaders with Girls Rock IT 
MCWT celebrated Cybersecurity Month through our Girls Rock IT program, empowering young women to explore the world of cybersecurity! We’re grateful for the support of our community in helping us educate and inspire the next generation of tech leaders. Together, we’re building a brighter, more secure future in tech! 

Dominate the School Year with MCWT’s Girls Hack IT Competition!

Do you know a high school girl with a passion for creativity and tech? Encourage her to join Girls Hack IT, our statewide hackathon. 

This exciting competition is designed to blend creative expression with mobile app development, building skills in coding, communication, and problem-solving. Participants will develop an app focused on Improving Life at Home and compete for prizes with a final, in-person hackathon on March 1, 2025. 
Learn more and apply here. 

Want to stay informed about our K-12 programs? Subscribe to our K-12 announcements here. If you’re already an MCWT member, please follow these instructions to subscribe. 

MICWIC 2024: A Resounding Success in Empowering Women in Tech 

In this season of gratitude, we reflect on the success of MICWIC 2024, where students and professionals came together to learn, connect, and empower each other. A heartfelt thank you to our keynote speakers, including Dr. Barbara Ericson, and all those who shared their insights.

Your contributions are making a lasting impact on women in tech. As we strive to make Michigan the No. 1 state for women in technology, we invite you to join us in shaping a brighter future. 

Read more about the 2024 conference here. 

Oct. 1, 2024 – Jan. 31, 2025 – Scholarship Applications 

This season of giving, we’re excited to support the next generation of tech leaders! High school seniors and college women in Michigan interested in tech can earn $2,000-$5,000 in annual awards, along with valuable mentorship and internship opportunities. To help with the application process, we’re offering drop-in help sessions. Share this opportunity with a future tech scholar and help pave the way for their success! 

Learn more about the qualifications here. 

Want to stay informed about our university programs? Subscribe to our university announcements here. If you’re already an MCWT member, please follow these instructions to subscribe. 

In this season of gratitude, we’re also reflecting on recent moments that brought us together to learn, connect, and grow in our careers. Thank you to everyone who attended our Leadership Clinic with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and HTC Global Services, our Southeast Michigan ConnectNet event with Ally, and the GenAI session with Endava.

Let’s take a moment to celebrate the incredible success of our Women TechPreneurs event in partnership with Femology during Michigan Tech Week. This collaboration brought together inspiring women entrepreneurs and leaders, fostering connections and shared insights that will resonate for years to come. We’re grateful for everyone who attended, participated, and supported this empowering event.

Catch a recap of the event with our video here. 

A special thanks to our dedicated volunteers and insightful guest speakers for enriching these experiences and advancing our tech knowledge. Your participation and support make a meaningful impact! 

As we look ahead, we encourage you to get involved with our upcoming events—let’s continue to build connections and empower each other in the tech community. 

Dec. 3, 5:00p.m. to 7:30 p.m. – West Michigan ConnectNet 

Join us for AI Essentials: From Beginner to Pro with expert Elizabeth Goede! This hands-on workshop will demystify AI, offering insights for all skill levels. Explore real-world applications, ethical use, and create your own AI process.  

Thanks to the generous support of our sponsor, this event is offered at no cost. Bring your laptop and get ready for an inspiring evening of learning and discovery. We can’t wait to see you there!  

Learn more and secure your seat here. 

Want to stay informed about our Career programs? Subscribe to our career announcements here. If you’re already an MCWT member, please follow these instructions to subscribe. 

Nov. 18, 5:00p.m. to 7:00 p.m. – Lansing Meet-Up: MCWT Nite Show  

Join us for the MCWT Nite Show, where we’ll discuss strategies for entering or re-entering the workforce, including visa concerns from both employee and HR hiring perspectives. If you’re in the Greater Lansing area, come out for an evening of networking with our community, enjoying light refreshments, and gaining valuable insights 
Learn more and sign-up here.

Volunteering with MCWT offers a chance to contribute to a meaningful cause while gaining valuable experience. Whether you’re mentoring young minds, supporting fundraising events, or driving initiatives, your time and talents directly advance our mission to inspire and grow women in tech.

We’re excited to share that MCWT now has a new volunteer application, along with a variety of open opportunities. Join us in shaping the future of technology in Michigan and experience the joy of giving back in a community dedicated to growth and innovation.

Explore the volunteer portal here. 

Want to stay informed about more volunteer opportunities? Subscribe to our volunteer announcements here. If you’re already an MCWT member, please follow these instructions to subscribe. 

The post A Season of Gratitude and Giving appeared first on MCWT.