5th Anniversary of MCWT’s GET-IT Connection Summit Marks Milestone in Empowering Women in Tech

Southfield, MI – Oct. 26, 2023 – The Michigan Council of Women in Technology celebrated the 5th anniversary of the annual joint GET-IT Connection Summit at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. This one-day event inspires young women in Michigan to pursue careers in technology by providing them with the tools, knowledge, community and inspiration needed to succeed. 

This year’s event drew 300 girls who explored hands-on opportunities, interacted with U-M Robotics equipped with Lidar, met with the Michigan AI team and completed cryptology cyber security challenges. 

“Our GET-IT Connection Summit is an example of what can be accomplished when academic institutions, technical professionals and our nonprofit work together,” said MCWT Programming Director, Tammy Doroshewitz. “We are privileged to partner with the University of Michigan ITS Department on this program that empowers the next generation of women in technology – and through our collaboration, we’re increasing our impact with each year.” 

The summit brought together accomplished female tech professionals, who shared their personal journeys, insights into tech trends, and invaluable advice on excelling in both academia and future careers. Amelia “Mimi” Brown, a motivational speaker, coach, author, and entrepreneur, delivered a keynote address and led participants through exercises designed to understand each person’s unique skills and value they bring to the world. 

Diane Jones, AVP Administration and Operations UM-ITS and MCWT Board Treasurer, and Darlene Taylor, CIO Superior Industries and Chief Mission Officer MCWT High School Programs, jointly reflected on the program’s inception and growth, sharing inspiration from witnessing the impact on students over the past five years.  

“From the start, we envisioned an event focused on the students, designed to provide the opportunity to help them see themselves in a tech role,” said Taylor. “We continue to inspire them with our guidance and tools, like scholarships and internships, to move them forward on their tech journey.”

Jones added, “We were delighted that Dr. Ravi Pendse, VP and CIO of the University of Michigan, joined us. Ravi’s message of ‘bowing down and sharing your gifts’ resonated with the students on a personal level. The girls were excited to hear him offer his role to one of them in the future.” 

The following generous sponsors helped make this event possible: University of Michigan – Information and Technology Services, Ford Motor Company, Stryker, BorgWarner and Little Caesars.

“The GET-IT Connection Summit encapsulates the spirit of MCWT’s mission—it’s about connection, empowerment and transformation,” said Dr. Orletta Caldwell, MCWT executive director. “It’s a reflection of our unwavering commitment to promoting gender diversity in the tech industry. We see young women come here with dreams and leave with a newfound sense of purpose and direction.”  

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About MCWT: The Michigan Council of Women in Technology (MCWT) is a non-profit organization that supports Michigan’s technology workforce, students, entrepreneurs, corporate partners, schools and the overall community with networking, learning, mentoring, and technology experiences for professionals and students. Find more at mcwt.org and connect via LinkedIn and Facebook.