Featured Women of Tech(nologent) for August 2024: Kristen Bramante & Eliza Cuenca

What does the phrase “Women of Tech(nologent)” mean to you?
It makes me think of the Wonder Woman character. It’s impowering. Being a woman in tech is not for the faint of heart. Look at the women we work alongside with. What do they all have in common? They have heart, grit, focus, and a work ethic like no other. We are constantly having to break barriers and prove we belong in tech. Every challenge we meet is the opportunity to use our voice and skills to prove that women in the tech industry are of the highest standard, bar none.

Name a fun fact about yourself that you’d like more people to know?
I was born and raised in Shiner, TX (Population 2069). Home of the Spoetzl Brewery. So if you have ever drank a Shiner Bock or two, you have helped support my tiny hometown. 😊

What would you say is the biggest challenge working in the IT field as a woman?
Being underestimated and overlooked – and not taking that to heart, along with the feeling of constantly having to prove yourself.

We feel the need to work 2x harder than everyone in the room and often do!

List 3 or more adjectives that you think are most important for exemplifying your best work self:
Long ago, I took the CliftonStrengths talent themes assessment, and I often reference it because it is a great reminder/summary of who I am as a person. Highly recommend it. Here are mine:

• • *Belief: People strong in the belief theme have certain core values that are unchanging. Out of these values emerges a defined purpose for their life.
  • *Communication: People strong in the communication theme generally find it easy to put their thoughts into words. They are good conversationalists and presenters.
  • *Positivity: People strong in the positivity theme have an enthusiasm that is contagious. They are upbeat and can get others excited about what they are going to do.
  • *Restorative: People strong in the restorative theme are adept at dealing with problems. They are good at figuring out what is wrong and resolving it.
  • *WOO: People strong in the woo theme love the challenge of meeting new people and winning them over. They derive satisfaction from breaking the ice and making a connection with another person

Are there any specific quotes, sayings or lessons that are important to you?

“If you are thinking positive during negative times, you’ve already won.”

I am constantly reminding myself of this. Mindset is everything. Staying and being positive is so important to not only your mental health but physical as well.