The tech world is a complex place. As President and CEO of SnapIT Solutions, I have spent my career navigating this terrain, working to build bridges, and driving positive change. Joining United WE as Chairperson for We Work For Change was a natural extension of my lifelong dedication to advocating for women and underrepresented groups in technology. Through this position, I have the platform to influence important conversations around diversity and inclusion, championing initiatives that dismantle barriers and create more equitable pathways for women and underrepresented communities.
I've always been driven to solve problems. After years of building global teams as a software engineer and lead architect, I saw firsthand how few women and people of color were in STEM fields. And yet, many companies were struggling to fill tech positions, It was clear we needed to do something different. That's why I founded SnapIT Solutions, with the vision of filling this pressing gap.
Growing SnapIT wasn’t easy. Initially, I was the sole employee, taking on countless roles from finance to product development as I built the foundation of the company. Balancing my entrepreneurial dreams with personal responsibilities, particularly finding reliable childcare, was a significant challenge. The support of my husband, parents, and trusted friends were absolutely crucial in navigating these early hurdles.
In 2016, I transitioned to work on SnapIT full-time. Strategic networking led to a pivotal project and before I knew it, we were scaling fast. By 2017, we had surpassed $1 million in revenue. Our model, which focused on training and hiring students, proved effective. Then the pandemic hit, forcing a shift from in-person to online operations. We had to completely change how we worked, but it ended up opening new doors for us. SnapIT now operates in 11 states.
For working parents and entrepreneurs like me, the issue of inadequate childcare is glaring. United WE's recent research quantified what many of us already felt: over half of women entrepreneurs with young children say insufficient childcare negatively impacts their business. This data aligns with my personal experience and underscores the urgent need for childcare solutions.
Our ability to adapt during the pandemic and continue growing amidst economic uncertainty speaks to the resilience required of entrepreneurs, especially women who are often juggling multiple responsibilities. To thrive, women entrepreneurs need a comprehensive support system. Flexible, accessible, and affordable childcare is essential infrastructure for economic growth and gender equality. By investing in childcare solutions, we empower women to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to the economy.
For fellow women entrepreneurs navigating similar challenges, my advice is to cultivate a strong support system, choose your partners wisely, and prioritize self-care. Entrepreneurship is demanding, but with the right resources and support, success is within reach. Engage actively with your network, give back to your community, and remember we rise by lifting others. Together, we can forge a future where women and underrepresented communities thrive in technology and across every industry.
Thank you for your support of United WE. I am optimistic about the progress we can achieve together.