Summary of "Ivanti Momentum User Group: Women in IT | Lana Xaochay & Shelly Wright"

Summary of “Ivanti Momentum User Group: Women in IT | Lana Xaochay & Shelly Wright”

This video features a conversation between Lana Xaochay, Ivanti’s Data Protection Officer, and Shelly Wright, Senior Director of PMO and Corporate Strategy at Ivanti. They discuss their journeys, challenges, and strategies as women in the tech industry. The discussion is framed around International Women’s Day and its theme “Embrace Equity,” emphasizing understanding diverse circumstances to achieve equal outcomes.

Main Themes and Insights

1. Career Journeys and Roles

Lana Xaochay entered IT and privacy by accident after an inappropriate data disclosure led to a meeting with the CIO. She focuses on personal data protection, navigating complex privacy laws, and balancing employee and customer data privacy.
Shelly Wright started in data entry, transitioned into coding, then Project Management, and now leads Digital Transformation initiatives. She values innovation, problem-solving, and teamwork.

2. Challenges Faced as Women in Tech

Common experiences include questioning self-confidence and expertise; overcoming this involves continuous learning, curiosity, and embracing challenges.
Facing gender biases such as being overlooked in meetings or having ideas validated by male counterparts.
Managing societal expectations, especially around motherhood and professional roles, and combating stereotypes about women’s availability or commitment.
Navigating cultural nuances and being authentic rather than conforming to male norms.

3. Strategies for Success and Influence

Authenticity: Emphasizing being true to oneself rather than adopting stereotypical male behaviors to fit in.
Building Allies: Having strong male allies and mentors who support and advocate for women is crucial. Allies often provide behind-the-scenes support and give credit where it’s due.
Communication: Being bold and clear without being abrasive; asking questions openly to learn and demonstrate interest.
Planning: Setting career goals and devising plans to reach them, even if the path is non-linear.
Extending Grace: Accepting imperfection and human error, both personally and in others, to reduce self-doubt and stress.

4. Promoting Oneself and Others

Importance of acknowledging personal contributions alongside team efforts.
Overcoming discomfort in self-promotion by viewing it as a role model for younger generations.
Regularly recognizing and thanking colleagues and allies to build positive relationships and a supportive network.

5. Work-Life Balance

Both speakers acknowledge the pressure to overwork, especially women who fear being perceived as less dedicated.
Healthy boundaries are a sign of strength and improve overall performance.
Leadership responsibility includes setting an example by respecting boundaries and encouraging cross-training to reduce individual overload.
Practical tips include turning off work devices after hours, intentional disconnection, and maintaining open dialogue about workload and well-being.
Accepting “good enough” rather than perfection helps reduce burnout.

6. Self-Care Practices

Scheduling dedicated “one-on-one” time with oneself to recharge and pursue hobbies or relaxation.
Meditation and focused quiet time at the start and end of the day.
Maintaining personal connections with family and loved ones as a source of support.

7. Community Engagement

Lana focuses on educating youth about privacy to foster better habits early on.
Shelly volunteers her Project Management skills to nonprofits and teaches classes to share knowledge and learn from others.

Methodology: Navigating a Male-Dominated Tech Industry

Be Authentic: Embrace your unique background and style without apologizing for it.
Build Strong Allies: Identify and nurture relationships with mentors and advocates, regardless of gender.
Communicate Boldly: Speak up confidently in your own style; ask questions to learn and engage.
Plan Your Career Path: Set goals and seek opportunities to grow and pivot as needed.
Extend Grace to Yourself: Accept mistakes and imperfections as part of growth.
Promote Yourself and Others: Share your achievements and recognize contributions of your peers.
Maintain Work-Life Boundaries: Set and respect limits to avoid burnout; encourage team cross-training.
Practice Self-Care: Schedule time for yourself and activities that recharge your energy.
Give Back: Engage in community education or volunteer work to broaden impact and perspective.

Presenters / Sources

Lana Xaochay – Data Protection Officer, Ivanti
Shelly Wright – Senior Director, Program Management Office and Corporate Strategy, Ivanti
Moderator/Host – Jennifer (name inferred from context)

This video offers valuable insights into the personal and professional experiences of Women in IT, highlighting the importance of authenticity, support systems, Self-Care, and continuous learning to thrive in a male-dominated industry.