A new decade powered by women in leadership

Two women in telecommunications discuss their successes in a male-dominated field

By H2M

MOORHEAD, Minn. • The gap in male to female employment in technology fields has narrowed over the years. For local telecommunications company 702 Communications, based in Moorhead, Minn., the new decade brings with it the rise of two female community members from within the organization.

H2M recently interviewed the two women, Rachel Weber and Christel Schmidt, about their journeys and perspectives on the current landscape of women in technology.

Rachel Weber

Q: How did you find yourself in the tech industry?

A: This was my first job when I moved to Fargo so this industry wasn’t necessarily a choice, but as soon as I was here I knew this was where I wanted to be. We are fast-paced and our business evolves with technology. There is a strong sense of belonging here and it’s exciting to be surrounded by people who strive to deliver their best.

Q: You were recently promoted to Customer Relations Manager. What would you attribute to your success in your career?

A: Endless curiosity, self-reliance, and calmness under pressure. I believe there is more to learn. It motivates me to research and ask questions so I can be better equipped at understanding the big picture.

Q: What did you find most challenging about your career path?

A: Maintaining patience and work-life balance. I had a desire to lead and be on the executive team here at 702, but I had to wait awhile for that opportunity. Over 18 years I held many roles: CSR, marketing specialist, and now customer relations manager. All the while, trying to make sure I was doing the right thing for everyone (family, cowork- ers and organization as a whole). I’m glad I stayed the course and that my superiors felt like I was the right person for the role.

Q: What do you most look forward to in your new role?

A: Helping to develop the long-term goals for 702 and working with the team members here.

Q: In the past the tech industry was predominantly populated with male employees. Over the years have you noticed a shift?

A: Early on, I would attend conferences and feel like women were all in customer service or administration jobs and more men were in the executive roles, but this has changed.

Telecom has many women role models in the industry holding top management positions. Here are a few of my favorites: Shirley Bloomfield, CEO of NTCA; Kristi Westbrock, CEO of CTC in Brainerd; and Staci Malikowski, CFO of Arvig in Perham.

Women in technology have always been behind because young women study science, technology, engineering and math in lower numbers. There is a movement now to change this and to encourage women to pursue these majors.