Connecting today’s tech leaders wtih tomorrow’s innovators through Dottie Rose Foundation speed networking
Apparo recently brought together nine Technology Executives from eight Charlotte companies for a day of Dottie Rose Foundation speed networking to inspire young women interested in careers in STEM. Executives spent the morning engaging with 21 middle school students in topics around building trust in yourself and your career, understanding the power of integrity, finding comfort in curiosity and the associated risks, and strategic approaches to problem-solving. Executives shared their knowledge of trending IT tools, words of advice for achieving career success, and insight into how the fundamentals of STEM are critical to all careers.
Students offered their perspectives on emerging tech trends, situations prompting pauses for reflection, and the complexities of dealing with unideal situations. They also provided words of advice to the tech leaders for how they could adapt their first impressions. Apparo CEO Kim Lanphear shares, “It was a great time of connecting, learning, and empowering. Apparo is so pleased to be the connector bringing together these tech leaders with the powerful mission of Dottie Rose to bring intelligent, STEM-motivated young women into our community’s professional ranks!”
Dottie Rose Foundation‘s concept of speed networking meets students where they are in the learning process. It accelerates their understanding of various career paths, fosters interpersonal skills, and opens doors to opportunities they might not have previously considered. Through brief yet impactful interactions, these speed networking events ignite the spark of curiosity and self-discovery, paving the way for informed decisions and futures with rich possibilities. Additionally, tech and business professionals have the opportunity to hear from today’s youth to understand students’ interests, struggles, and aspirations, creating a transformative impact for everyone involved.
Participating Tech Executives Included: Jennifer Blackman – Duke Energy, Katie Cipkala – LPL Financial, Riddhi Gupta – USAA, Jennifer James – Duke Energy, Sailaja Kandala – Jeld-Wen, Kim Lanphear – Apparo, Sherri Leach – Ingersoll Rand, Mary Beth Ledet – Bank of America, Stephanie McKee – Apparo, Minal Parker – American Tire Distributors
Reflecting on this inspiring volunteer experience, ATD’s Minal Parker shares, “I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity to volunteer with Apparo and Dottie Rose, contributing to such meaningful nonprofit missions. It was an honor and privilege, and deeply rewarding experience. It was truly inspiring to witness the leadership and dedication to the missions of Apparo and Dottie Rose. It is evident that these visions and commitments are making a positive difference in the lives of many. I look forward to continuing to support the important initiatives of Apparo and Dottie Rose and furthering our shared goals together.” Additionally, Tech Exec Riddhi Gupta describes the personal impact felt following the day at Sedgefield, “I felt inspired after speed networking with the STEM students! I Thank you to the amazing team at Apparo and Dottie Rose for including me. I am happy to serve! It was a great way to start my day and I can unequivocally say that I am hopeful and excited about this next generation!”
Founder and CEO of Dottie Rose Foundation, Dr. Sharon Jones, provides context around the goals of the program, “Dottie Rose Foundation transforms futures through the art of connection. Our speed networking events provide a platform for aspiring minds to engage with industry professionals, fostering mentorship, inspiration, and a direct pathway to success. We believe that by facilitating these dynamic connections, we are not just building networks, but sculpting the future leaders of innovation, one meaningful conversation at a time“.
Participating tech leader Mary Beth Ledet shares, “What an amazing morning we had with the Sedgefield Middle School girls! I had such a great time meeting these smart and committed young ladies. Thank you, Apparo and Karen, for coordinating this event with Dr. Jones! I am a HUGE fan of her mission with the Dottie Rose Foundation. I look forward to another opportunity to work with this organization and with these amazing women in tech!”
