Women's History Month - MythBuster #4

Hello all,

I'm writing from the Computers in Libraries conference in DC this week, where the main focus is on how AI is changing the field of information research.
I will be providing some details in a later post after I figure it all out!

SUNY Mythbusters for this week:

Myth #1: Women are not interested in or passionate about technology

"In my career as an administrative tech leader, I have known many women who have been as passionate about technology as anyone else on my team. Gender has never been the defining characteristic in measuring a staff member's interest in technology as a problem-solving solution. Curiosity, humanity, and a desire to help others have been much more critical."
- Holly Heller-Ross, SUNY Plattsburgh

Myth #2: Tech careers are only for individuals with strong mathematical or technical skills

"I have a Bachelor's in Speech Communication and a Master's in Sports Studies. I am in a tech career now because I can listen and learn about technology. I may not be able to code, configure a firewall, or install a server, but I know when those services are needed and I know who can perform them. I am able to gather requirements and help both technical users and end users understand what those requirements are. I also understand customer service and that everyone is a customer of IT, even other IT people. I especially understand that the students are IT customers and at the end of the day, they are our most important customer."
- Bill Grau, Executive Director, SICAS Center

Myth #3: Tech is a male-dominated field and not welcoming to women

"Unfortunately, tech does seem to be male-dominated, not sure why, however our entire team is supportive and welcoming to women!"
- Mike Notarius, CIO, ITEC

Myth #4: Women cannot balance family and personal life with a career in tech

"Speaking from my experience at a SUNY institution, the organizational culture promotes a healthy work/life balance."
- Dana Laird, Head of Technical Services, SUNY Brockport

"Balancing family, personal life, and a career in IT can be challenging, but it’s absolutely possible. Women continue to break barriers in tech, proving their resilience and leadership. While the industry is still male-dominated, a strong support system and a focus on priorities make a fulfilling work-life balance achievable. For me, that means channeling my passion into education, where I can inspire the next generation of IT professionals. Teaching allows me to make a lasting impact, ensuring that the future of technology is diverse, inclusive, and filled with opportunities for all."
- Maria C. Garrity, Buffalo State University

Thanks to everyone who contributed this year!

All the best,
Holly