Suzy Reyes, Author at #LatinaGeeks™

The Fundamentals of Data Analytics with WGU

Suzy Reyes — Mon, 04 Dec 2023 16:41:08 +0000

#LatinaGeeks partnered with WGU on November 30th for a discussion in Navigating the World of Data Analytics, in which Shealan Pream unveiled essential aspects of this dynamic field. The workshop underscored the indispensable role of data analytics in modern decision-making, emphasizing its influence on leadership and communication. Participants learned that Data Analytics is an ‘umbrella term’, offering diverse career paths, whether technical or business-oriented, also known as AI/ML, data science, and more. We learned the importance of acquiring adaptable skills aligned with the data analytics lifecycle, acknowledging the ever-changing nature of tools in the field. Shealan emphasized the importance of focusing on skills, rather than tethering participants to specific tools, and that success in data analytics demands a balance between programming, math and crucially, business influence. So much information was packed into this workshop, and we want to thank Shealan and the WGU team for providing such valuable insight and tips on data analytics to our community. For attendees who joined us, we hope you left the program filled with knowledge and inspired to apply these learnings in your career path. Look out for our future workshops for an opportunity to learn from and engage with our speakers and partners. Be sure to tap into the valuable resources being offered for opportunities to take your career to the next level! Interested in a Career in Data Analytics? Learn more about WGU’s online courses: · https://www.wgu.edu/online-it-degrees/data-analytics-bachelors-program · https://www.wgu.edu/online-it-degrees/data-analytics-masters-program.htmlhtml#_ Financial Assistance is available to our community! Learn more about WGU’s scholarships and be sure to use our unique qualifying code “7243” when applying: · https://www.wgu.edu/financial-aid-tuition/scholarships/partner/b4-women-tech-grant.html · https://www.wgu.edu/financial-aid-tuition/scholarships/partner/community-outreach-partners.html Volunteer with us: Contact denyse@latinageeks.org for details

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#LatinaGeeks Day Celebration & Networking – 2023 Recap

Suzy Reyes — Thu, 03 Aug 2023 21:35:24 +0000

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Demystifying AI & Machine Learning

Suzy Reyes — Fri, 24 Feb 2023 01:30:31 +0000

#LatinaGeeks partnered with Intuit on Thursday, January 26th, for a “Demystifying AI & Machine Learning” discussion. Technology representatives from Intuit presented industry insights, their experience with Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, how it drives innovation, and advice for women looking to start a career in this field. The session provided attendees with in-depth knowledge of AI and ML and why it’s needed in technology today. The panelists also shared their individual experiences in this profession and stories of how AI and ML have helped them forge ahead in their careers. Our Intuit speakers and facilitators come from diverse backgrounds with a broad range of expertise: Farzaneh Khoshnevisan Senior Data Scientist linkedin.com/in/fkhoshn Grace Wu – Mgr 2, Data and Analytics linkedin.com/in/gracewu3 Merrin Kurian Principal Engineer, ML Platform linkedin.com/in/merrinkurian Yan Qu – Director of Data Science, Fraud & Risk linkedin.com/in/yan-qu-0b7907 Damion Wright – Global DE&I Programs linkedin.com/in/damionjwright Vanessa Otter – Senior Recruiter – linkedin.com/in/votter Some key takeaways from the panel include: To prove the value of AI and Machine Learning in the workplace, use data and visuals to make a case for the technology. Then, put it into production by running A/B tests, so it’s influencing customer behavior. AI is a fast-moving field; it changes all the time and can be overwhelming. But keeping up with new technology like this is essential. Place yourself in the right environment to make a career shift in tech with potential growth potential, and build a network that can help you transition. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there or start something new. Get practice talking about what you know; the confidence will follow. No matter what stage you’re in your career, follow your passion. If you are passionate about working in AI or ML, nothing works better than getting your hands dirty and solving problems. Practice makes perfect. AI is a great tool to be more efficient, but the “human perspective” is always needed and appreciated. Some resources to help you get started in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: https://www.w3schools.com/python/default.asp https://www.freecodecamp.org/learn/machine-learning-with-python/ https://www.freecodecamp.org/learn/data-analysis-with-python/ Resources and Information about careers at Intuit: Tech Women @ Intuit highlights their initiative focused on attracting, engaging, and developing women and underrepresented groups in tech: https://www.intuit.com/careers/programs/tech-women-at-intuit/ They are also always looking for qualified candidates to join their team: https://www.intuit.com/careers/ Special thanks to our partners at Intuit for facilitating this educational program; full webinar recording can be found here: Demystifying AI & Machine Learning Hear what our community had to say about the event: It was very nice and I really like to see smart, humble women succeed. I was curious to learn more about AI ML I enjoyed learning and meeting new people and hearing their stories.

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Digital Marketing Essentials

Suzy Reyes — Wed, 19 Oct 2022 00:34:11 +0000

#LatinaGeeks partnered with UC San Diego Extended Studies on October 13th for a discussion on Digital Marketing Essentials. Jennifer Neely from UC San Diego Extended Studies joined us for a discussion to equip yourself with the basic fundamentals of digital marketing for #LatinaGeeks’ businesses, or companies that they work for. So many insights were shared by Jennifer to our #LatinaGeeks community, you can check out the replay above. Some inspiring key takeaways from the session: Reviewing Digital Marketing terms to understand online marketing efforts on a deeper level. When preparing a digital marketing plan, figure out to Call to Actions first. Make them clear and think about what you want people online to do. Jennifer laid out the 5 Steps for setting your Digital Marketing Strategy: #1 – Set a Measurable Goal #2 – Know Your Audience #3 – Know Your Brand #4 – Watch your Competition #5 – Get ready to Measure We want to thank the UC San Diego Extended Studies team for providing such valuable insight and tips on digital marketing for our #LatinaGeeks community. Special thank you for also generously providing a 15% discount to #LatinaGeeks attendees for a Winter/Spring UCSD Extended Studies course. For attendees who joined us live and filled out our survey, we chose 1 lucky winner for a free UC San Diego Extended Studies course! Look out for our future workshops for an opportunity to win incredible giveaways from sponsors when possible. Link to UC San Diego digital marketing courses: https://extendedstudies.ucsd.edu/digitalmarketing Volunteer with us: Contact denyse@latinageeks.org for details

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A Memorable Evening Celebrating #LatinaGeeks 10th Anniversary

Suzy Reyes — Thu, 01 Sep 2022 16:49:19 +0000

Nearly 150 guests gathered at the Museum of Latin American Art in Long Beach, California, on August 20th to celebrate nonprofit #LatinaGeeks 10th Anniversary and honor four individuals making a transformative impact in our world through technology. The memorable evening was a culmination of # LatinaGeeks’ 10 years of advocating for more diversity in the technology sector and educating and empowering Latinas working in or pursuing careers in technology. The glitzy gala began as attendees walked up the red-carpet photo for opportunities to capture the momentous occasion and were entertained by a professional mariachi upon entering the beautiful venue. As people found their seats, they joined friendly faces in the community they’ve connected with at previous events and met new individuals eager to make meaningful connections and support the mission of #LatinaGeeks. The event kicked off with a delightful array of appetizers and a hosted bar, followed by welcoming remarks from the #LatinaGeeks Board Chairwoman, Bracy Fuentes, who reflected on how far the organization has come, and the path to the future. Executive Director and Co-Founder LaLa Castro then took the stage and spoke passionately about her journey into tech and how taking non-traditional paths can still lead you to the career of your dreams. The Mistress of Ceremonies for the evening was Emmy-award-winning reporter Claudia Botero, who set the tone for the evening’s festivities and introduced the panel discussion, aptly titled “Latinas Shaping the Future of Technology.” Speakers included powerhouse women Valeria Martinez, Venture Capitalist at Vamos Ventures; Tanya Menendez, Co-Founder and CEO of Snowball Wealth; and Daniela Corrente, Co-Founder and CEO of Reel. These inspiring ladies were dropping some serious gems: “Knowing that if I’m suffering, ideally that makes it easier for the next Latina, because I am able to be a good representative for our community and that’ll make it easier for the next Latina coming.” – Tanya Menendez, Co-Founder and CEO of Snowball Wealth “You have to look in the mirror and know that you are the best that you can be, that nobody’s bringing this idea the way that you’re bringing that idea and you walk in and you own it because that’s the way that we can do it.” – Daniela Corrente, Co-Founder and CEO of Reel “Speak up, raise your hand for the projects that maybe seem hard, ask for that promotion. Really, truly advocate for your great work.” – Valeria Martinez, Venture Capitalist at Vamos Ventures After the dinner that boasted some cultural delights, guests had the opportunity for more networking and a stand-out Silent Auction (including a J-lo collectible, LA Dodgers signed memorabilia, a Prince collectible album, and a Mexico beach retreat for two) to help raise funds to support the work of #LatinaGeeks. It was then time for the gran final – the first ever Inspirada Awards ceremony, which honored fierce Latinas in the following categories: Rising Star in STEM: Liliana Rodriguez, Engineer I at LPL Financial Diana Segura, Intern at NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory Fernanda Sulantay Vargas, Graduate Student Researcher at Yale University Congratulations to the 2022 Inspirada Award Recipient, Diana Segura. Technology Entrepreneur: Cecilia Corral, Co-Founder & […]

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The Art of Landing Your Dream Job

Suzy Reyes — Mon, 01 Aug 2022 19:33:48 +0000

#LatinaGeeks partnered with Amazon Jobs on June 15th for a discussion on “The Art of Landing Your Dream Job”. Katie Thomas and Damien Jaress from Amazon Jobs joined us for a discussion around crafting your resume and LinkedIn to be application-ready for a job at Amazon.

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Key Strategies for Women to Succeed in STEM

Suzy Reyes — Mon, 01 Aug 2022 19:16:28 +0000

#LatinaGeeks partnered with Cox on Wednesday, March 4th for a discussion on “Key Strategies for Women to Succeed in STEM”. Penny Grandon from Cox joined us for a Q&A where we discussed her career journey in technology and tips to thrive in the tech industry. The session provided attendees with the knowledge to grow in the STEM field and inspired attendees to stand up for yourself. Some inspiring key takeaways from the panel: Her aunt was the 1st engineer at Mabel. Her aunt is what got her into engineering along with scoring high in math and science in the military exams. She was 1 of only two women on her team at CenturyLink When she first started as an engineer, she was told to take notes and get coffee. Until her manager recommended, she start to push back if told to take notes or get coffee and tell them you’ll take your own notes. Her proudest moment was when the pandemic hit. She realized that people needed data & their services more than ever. This was the way to keep people connected. On mentorship: Own your value & don’t play small. Be intentional and purposeful. Go in with a mindset of I want to change and make lasting relationship. Take ownership of your career & don’t depend on people you know to get your to where you want to go. Put in the work. Mentor up (a program at Cox) is a sisterhood. It’s a support system that pairs entry level positions to senior level positions. It also helps women navigate in a non-traditional role. It’s a reverse mentorship where you build meaningful relationships. The group is currently reading the book, “How Women Rise.” We want to thank the Cox team for providing such valuable insight and tips on thriving in the STEM field. Some resources to help you get started: Our sponsor company is also always looking for qualified candidates to join their team; we encourage you to explore their open roles: https://jobs.coxenterprises.com/businesses/cox-communications/

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3 Ways Networking Boosts Your Career

Suzy Reyes — Fri, 24 Jun 2022 18:39:11 +0000

Networking provides a host of benefits and here are 3 reasons why it’s important for your career and personal growth. #1. Networking provides social benefits. Many people have met life-long friends through networking. We’ve seen it time and time again at our in-person #LatinaGeeks events back in 2019 and continue to see how beneficial it is when connecting with your comunidad. Building relationships through networking can help you make strides in your career. When someone you connect with thinks of you for an upcoming job offer, they’ll reach out because you’ll be top of mind. Or if you’re on the job hunt and remember connecting with a mutual person from that company, you could reach out as well. The benefits are endless! #2. Networking opens your mind to new ideas and philosophies. Hearing about what other people might be doing in their jobs inspires you and can spark a desire to learn new techniques or a new skill. Bringing new ideas to the table at your role will help you stand out and be successful. Networking provides a unique opportunity to learn growth strategies and make a personal connection with someone you might be inspired by. #3. Networking will give you an opportunity to engage with professionals at various levels in their career. At a networking event, there can be attendees from various companies and geographic locations. But did you consider how the person standing next to you could be the next CEO of Google? Anything is possible! Networking introduces you to experienced professionals. If you’re just starting in your career, this is a valuable way to get yourself out there and learn from the “less accessible” higher ups on a personal level. A handshake, eye contact and exchanging information is all that’s needed to make that connection. While getting out there and expressing yourself is not easy for a lot of people, just being in the room with professionals from various walks of life working in industries you’re hoping to be a part of can slowly help your journey as you expose yourself to their knowledge. Networking also opens the door to potential mentorship or job opportunities. Having a mentor is so valuable in any phase of your career, and a networking event will bring you in front of new faces eager to help. Also, you never know when someone may have a job opening that you were meant for. And you wouldn’t have known if you hadn’t attended that event! If you’re interested in networking with other Latinas in tech, join us at the #LatinaGeeks Inspirada Awards Gala on Saturday, August 20, 2022 at the Museum of Latin American Art in Long Beach. It’ll be a night to remember as we plan to bring together a room of 250+ powerful Latinas and supporters to celebrate our diverse community. This year, we are honoring four Latina industry leaders who have pioneered innovation, fostered the spirit of entrepreneurship— and are using technology to create a transformative impact in our community, our companies, and our world. We are excited to also honor a ‘rising star’ whose vision and spirit of […]

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#LatinaTechHistory: Introducing Nina Vaca of Pinnacle Group

Suzy Reyes — Fri, 17 Jun 2022 00:04:16 +0000

As we continue to celebrate 10 years of #LatinaGeeks we’re highlighting Latinas in tech who have made history and continue to shape the technology field as part of our #LatinaTechHistory campaign. Today, we’re highlighting Nina Vaca, from Pinnacle Group. Nina Vaca personifies the American Dream as a trailblazing Latina entrepreneur, a world-changing philanthropist, and a dynamic global leader. Born in Ecuador, and as a child of immigrant parents her upbringing taught her the important skill to never give up. Since she was a child, she realized how technology changed her parent’s business when they arrived in the United States. She understands how technology truly supports progress in today’s world. For 24 years she worked on building an empire known as the Pinnacle Group, one of the largest Latino companies in the country. What started as a one-woman IT staffing firm has grown into a workforce solutions powerhouse providing multiple service lines to industry leaders in the telecommunications, financial services, transportation, and technology industries. Only two percent of directors serving on publicly traded company boards are Latinas, something Nina is dedicated to changing. As one of the few (and youngest) Latinas serving in this capacity, Nina is working to bring more women into the C-Suite and onto boards with organizations like 2020 Women on Boards. To give back, she has promoted STEM education through scholarships and programs which benefits those in Dallas, Texas and children back in Ecuador. If you know a Latina who deserves recognition for the impact they have made on the community, consider nominating them for an award at our upcoming #LatinaGeeks Inspirada Awards Gala where they can be recognized for their accomplishments. We will also bring together a room of 250+ powerful Latinas and supporters to celebrate our diverse community on Saturday, August 20, 2022 at the Museum of Latin American Art in Long Beach. Click here learn more and to register ›

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#LatinaTechHistory: Brenda Salinas Baker of ABC News

Suzy Reyes — Thu, 09 Jun 2022 13:32:00 +0000

In continuation of our 10th-anniversary celebration, this #LatinaTechHistory campaign is focused on educating #LatinaGeeks on Latinas in tech who have made history and continue to shape the technology field. Today, we’re highlighting Brenda Salinas Baker, a trilingual Mexican immigrant who works as a Senior Producer, Podcasts, ABC News, the home of Start Here, The Dropout, Life Out Loud, and other award-winning journalism and lifestyle podcasts. Brenda edits and produces audio bits that impact listeners in profound ways. She is passionate about helping newsrooms tell sound-rich stories that reach new and diverse audiences. “Brenda is committed to building a media landscape where every woman of color has the power to tell her story. She is an NPR Next Generation mentor, a former board president of the Association of Independents in Radio and a coach to young women breaking into the world of radio and podcasting.” (https://brendapsalinas.com/). We are so grateful for women like Brenda who ensure Latinas are being represented. Brenda can inspire all of us to consider areas of our lives where we can cheer each other on and make sure our voices are heard. If there’s someone in your life who inspires you, we are honoring four Latina industry leaders who have pioneered innovation, fostered the spirit of entrepreneurship— and are using technology to create a transformative impact in our community, our companies, and our world. at our upcoming #LatinaGeeks Inspirada Awards Gala. We will also bring together a room of 250+ powerful Latinas and supporters to celebrate our diverse community on Saturday, August 20, 2022 at the Museum of Latin American Art in Long Beach. Click here learn more and to register › Stay tuned for our next #LatinaTechHistory where we highlight a Latina who built one of the largest Latino companies in the country.

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