UAT Celebrates Women: Tech's Bright Future

In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, diversity and inclusivity are paramount. As we celebrate International Women's Day, it's essential to recognize the invaluable contributions of women, not only in the history of technology, but in shaping the future of the tech industry. At the University of Advancing Technology (UAT), a commitment to fostering a culture of equality and empowerment for women in technology is not just a dream but a lived reality. 

Meet Christelle Deborah Cyprien, a shining example of the impact of UAT's inclusive environment. Originally from Haiti, Christelle's journey to UAT began with a passion for Virtual Reality (VR). Graduating with a degree in VR in 2022, she now serves as a Program Support Specialist, embodying the spirit of mentorship and support she experienced as a student. Christelle reflects, "What really stands out to me about my educational experience at UAT is that there's always someone here to help and make it very accessible for you to reach out when you need to." 

Christelle's story is just one among many at UAT. Kendra Kim, an educator and curriculum developer specializing in Robotics and Embedded Systems, exemplifies the seamless integration of academia and industry. Kendra's dedication to bridging the gap between theory and practice empowers students to explore the limitless possibilities of technology. She affirms, "My favorite aspect of working at UAT is witnessing the tangible application of classroom learning to real-world scenarios across multiple industries." 

Alessandra Caballero, an alumna carving her path in the tech industry, acknowledges the support she received at UAT. Despite facing personal and immigration challenges, Alessandra's resilience shines through. She advises aspiring women in tech, "Be confident that you’ll figure it out, even if it doesn’t seem like it, and remember that we were all nervous when graduating and getting a job." 

Karla Argaon, UAT's Chief Operating Officer, embodies the institution's evolution over the past 24 years. From IT support specialist to a vital part of UAT's leadership team, Karla's journey reflects the transformative power of education and mentorship. Reflecting on UAT's growth, she emphasizes, "My life would be completely different if I didn’t work here." 

As we honor International Women's Day, let us celebrate the resilience, innovation, and leadership of women in technology. Through initiatives focused on mentorship, education, and inclusivity, UAT continues to empower women to thrive in the ever-expanding tech landscape. Together, we cultivate a culture of equality, ensuring that every voice can shape the future of technology.