Michigan Council of Women in Technology Foundation
Michigan Council of Women in Technology Foundation
SOUTHFIELD, Nov. 26, 2024 — The Michigan Council of Women in Technology Foundation (MCWT) is recognizing the second-year success of its Reignite! program helping women transition into Michigan’s tech workforce. This year, 20 women benefited from tailored professional development, mentorship and skills training designed to prepare them for careers in the evolving technology sector.
Given the positive outcomes and new funding from the State of Michigan, MCWT will expand Reignite! from a single annual cohort to 10 cohorts of 40 women each across Michigan in 2025, increasing both accessibility and impact.
The additional cohorts will offer personalized support, including career coaching, technology training, and networking opportunities designed to meet the unique needs of women reentering the tech field. The expansion supports MCWT’s mission to inspire and grow the number of women in technology and aligns with the State of Michigan’s efforts to strengthen the state’s tech industry.
Maria Johnson, a Reignite! participant cultivating her entrepreneurial skills while transitioning back into the tech industry, says the 2024 program gave her confidence, tools and community.
The Reignite program’s impact is exemplified by participants like Afolake Ayo-Vaughan, who is navigating the challenges of being a wife, mother, and budding entrepreneur while transitioning back into the tech industry.
“Reignite gave me the confidence, tools, and community to navigate this transition,” said Ayo-Vaughan. “It’s empowering to know I’m not alone, and I now have a supportive network and clear direction for my career goals. The program has not only reignited my passion for technology but also equipped me with the skills to balance my personal and professional aspirations.”
Kathy Morgan, the Program Officer at the Flagstar Foundation, a ReIgnite! corporate partner, expressed her organization’s commitment to the program’s mission.
“Even though I’ve recently started with the Flagstar Foundation in Michigan, every time I interact with MCWT, I see how everyone’s passion shines through their programming, and it excites me to be part of this momentous change,” said Morgan. “At the Flagstar Foundation, we believe in empowering women to achieve their fullest potential and pivot into something new, especially in technology. We’re honored to support a program that not only strengthens the tech talent pipeline but also transforms lives by helping women reclaim their purpose and passions.”
MCWT Executive Director Dr. Orletta Caldwell sees the program as a means to continue breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for women across Michigan in 2025.
“As we look back on the success of Reignite’s second year, we’re reminded of the foundation on which MCWT was built – a commitment to empowering women in tech,” said Dr. Orletta Caldwell, MCWT executive director. “The growth we’ve experienced and the expansion we’re embarking on are testaments to the dedication of our participants, partners and the entire MCWT community.”
About MCWT Foundation: The Michigan Council of Women in Technology Foundation is dedicated to inspiring and growing women in technology fields. Through programs, scholarships, and mentorship, MCWT aims to make Michigan the No. 1 state for women in technology.
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