MCWT Names Judy Asher its ‘Woman of the Year in Technology’

The Michigan Council of Women in Technology Foundation named Judy Asher its “Woman of the Year in Technology.” Asher is manager, Cyber Security Governance, Risk & Compliance and Security & Controls Compliance at​ Ford Motor Company, as well as a passionate advocate for MCWT and its programs.

The third annual MCWT award recognizes women in Michigan leading or driving change for other women in information technology careers or fields of study. MCWT Foundation President Rebecca Bray presented Judy Asher with the honor at the nonprofit’s signature Gala on Nov. 3 in Rochester, Michigan. Hosted by General Motors, the twelfth annual event raised a record $460,000 in gross revenue for programs that help inspire and grow women in technology.

“Although the IT industry continues to address a significant gender gap in the field, we have individual women here in Michigan tackling the challenge head on,” said Rebecca Bray, president of the MCWT Foundation. “Their efforts to inspire and foster the next generation of technology professionals not only positively impacts people in our communities, but it initiates a ripple effect throughout our economy. We designed this award to highlight such leadership.

Asher is a leader in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) initiatives at Ford, and has inspired a multitude of young people to explore related career paths.

“It’s an honor to see Judy recognized as a leader driving inspiration and education for women in the field of technology,” said Jeff Lemmer, vice president and CIO, Ford Motor Company. “Her work with MCWT and Ford’s STEAM Experience programs are strengthening our community to inspire the hearts and developing minds for the next generation.”

Asher has been engaged with MCWT for the past 10 years and is the chief mission officer for university programs. Scholarships, technology camps and programs like Girls Solve IT have gained momentum as a result of the dedication and mentoring that Asher does.

“I am excited to continue to contribute to the state of Michigan becoming THE place where women in technology can thrive,” Asher said.

MCWT reviewed the award nominations to identify the woman who best personified its mission of inspiring and growing women in IT. The nonprofit works to broadly reach young girls to encourage them to consider technology and deeply connects with women who choose the IT path—with the continued support of its 103 partners and 750 members.

“General Motors is proud to align with MCWT’s core mission in supporting girls and women in reaching their full potential through STEM education and in achieving success in high-tech fields,” said Stacy Lynett, CIO, GM Global Corporate Functions. “We are pleased to present a gift of $50,000 to the MCWT Foundation to continue its efforts ensuring a bright, bold future for its GET-IT Program recipients.”

In 2018 alone, 17 new companies joined the cause. More than 44 companies sponsored the Gala, including ball sponsors Fujitsu and TD Ameritrade. Over 550 IT professionals attended the fundraising affair.

“MCWT’s partners and community stakeholders share our motivation to build a diverse technology talent pipeline, and this was apparent at our Gala fundraiser,” said Bray. “Together our programs and powerful collaborations will make Michigan the place to be for women in IT.”

The Michigan Council of Women in Technology Foundation strives to inspire and grow girls and women in technology fields, with an aspirational vision to make Michigan the No. 1 state for women in technology. The organization supports Michigan’s female IT workforce, students, corporate partners, schools and the overall community with networking, learning, mentoring, and technology experiences for professionals and students. Find more information at www.mcwt.org and connect via Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube.