My story: Weaving together tech, creativity, and business

My journey in technology has always been inspired by a deep curiosity about how things work and a love for storytelling and design.

My first computer, 1994

The early years

I came of age during the transformative years of the early internet, a time when technology was becoming increasingly accessible to everyone. I was captivated by the endless possibilities it unlocked.

While I majored in English at the University of Texas at Austin, I complemented my studies with computer science courses in Java programming—a blend that reflects my lifelong interest in the intersection of technology and the arts.

To gain experience and confidence in my abilities, I designed and developed websites for local charities while also teaching computing and internet skills to individuals facing the challenges of the digital divide.

Career 1.0

Early in my career, I honed my skills as a communicator and problem solver. As the sole technical writer at a software startup, I turned complex systems into accessible guides, laying the foundation for a career focused on connecting people with technology.

At IBM, I grew into roles that combined creativity, leadership, and technical expertise—writing and designing software manuals and online help, developing global training programs, modernizing eLearning platforms, and leading software development teams to deliver client success applications used by tens of thousands worldwide.

Each role built on the previous one, expanding my skills and responsibilities and culminating in leading a 45-person organization as a manager of managers.

And then it happened.

As my career at IBM unfolded, I found myself constantly evolving—changing roles, collaborating with new teams, and learning from seasoned executives. It was during one of these transitions that I was presented with an unexpected opportunity: a chance to pivot into product marketing.

What intrigued me most was that product marketing didn’t require abandoning my technical roots. In fact, it celebrated them, encouraging deep expertise in specific portfolio areas. After thoughtful discussions with mentors and colleagues, I decided to take the leap.

It turned out to be the best decision of my career. Product marketing has proven to be the perfect intersection of business strategy, creativity, and technology. It allows me to draw on all the experiences that shaped my technical foundation—from Linux and middleware like DB2, Tivoli, and WebSphere to mobile, cloud native, and analytics. It’s a role where I get to connect the dots, tell compelling stories, work with visionary business leaders and technologists, and drive real impact—all while staying connected to the tech that first inspired me.

Everything else

Outside of work, I have channelled my creativity and passion into blogging, photography, design and volunteering. Traveling is one of my greatest joys, seeking out the world’s great museums—like the Prado, Rijksmuseum, Tate Modern, and MoMA—finding endless inspiration in the blend of history, culture, and artistry.

I share my home with my husband, two wonderfully needy dogs who keep me on my toes, and, occasionally, my college-aged daughter, whose complete lack of interest in technology never fails to amuse me.

Whether leading a team, crafting a marketing narrative, or building a website for a cause I care about, I bring a blend of technical and creative skills, a passion for problem-solving, and a commitment to meaningful impact.