Christel Schmidt

everything around you changes in the blink of an eye and often the instructions come later.

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

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

A: I started as a software and technical trainer. That led to the start of consulting for companies and assisting with their networks. I really enjoyed being hands-on with customer networks and moved on to a local telecom provider as their local network administrator.

Q: What would you consider to be the greatest hurdle you overcame to get where you are today?

A: A big challenge is balancing family, friends, and career. Days fill fast and it can be overwhelming to get it all done. I still find myself drawn to the “killer to-do list,” which includes not only my own tasks, but what needs to be done for others in my life. I have allowed myself to focus more on “what is the priority” rather than “how I can get all of it done.”

Q: What would you attribute to your success in your career?

A: The ability to adapt quickly and not be afraid to take on challenges even when I was given little to no instruction. In technology,

A: When I started, it was just a concept to provide additional network support for our customers. Our recent acquisition of Computer Wrench is allowing us to expand our offerings and strengthen customer relationships. I look forward to leading this team to deliver exceptional IT services to the area.

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

A: In a room of IT professionals, I am typically the only female. I see more gender bias out in the field when it is a first meeting. Customers often address network and security questions to male sales counterparts. It never takes long before they realize I’m the technical consultant.

Personally, I have not known many network engineers in the area; however, someone I consider to be a successful female in the tech industry is Lisa Bortnem-Wiser. As an engineer for the railroad and owner of Mid States Wireless Inc., she has shown me that as a female in male dominated industries you CAN be successful and lead others with grace, intelligence and maybe a little sassiness on the side.