Women in Tech

Kim, Sales Effectiveness Manager

Mastering the Tech Terrain: Kim’s Tech Journey

May 2, 2024

Kim brings nearly two decades of invaluable experience in the tech industry to the table. With a rich background that includes a notable work experience at Xerox from 2002 to 2017, Kim has honed her skills and expertise across various facets of the ever-evolving tech landscape. After a brief hiatus, Kim rejoined the tech realm in December 2023, returning to Powerland, a Xerox Company. Her wealth of knowledge, cultivated over years of experience, positions her as a seasoned professional ready to tackle new challenges and drive innovation in the industry. Kim’s journey is a testament to her unwavering dedication and passion for technology, making her an invaluable asset to any team fortunate enough to have her expertise.

What drew Kim to join Powerland was not just the potential to make a tangible impact but also the chance to collaborate with individuals who share her passion and drive. Powerland operates in an industry brimming with innovation, offering solutions that not only enhance businesses but also empower customers in their day-to-day operations. For Kim, being part of this dynamic environment means more than just a job—it’s a commitment to shaping the future of work, one innovative solution at a time. In her role as Sales Effectiveness Manager, Kim embodies the essence of leadership and mentorship. She leads by example, leveraging her wealth of experience to drive results, inspire her team, and cultivate a culture of continuous learning and development.

Reflecting on her journey, Kim emphasizes the transformative impact of mentorship. “Aligning yourself with a mentor will provide valuable advice, support, and guidance,” she asserts. “Everyone has unique experiences that you can draw on, share, and learn from.” Kim underscores the belief that success is not a solo journey—it’s a collective effort fueled by collaboration, empathy, and a shared commitment to growth.

As Kim continues to navigate the dynamic landscape of the tech industry, her journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of mentorship. Through her leadership, dedication, and unwavering belief in the potential of others, Kim MacLeod exemplifies the true essence of success.

Monika Sommerhalder, Senior Technician

A Journey of Dedication and Growth at Powerland

April 26, 2024

With over 25 years of service at Powerland, Monika Sommerhalder has carved out a distinguished career as a Senior Technician, embodying the spirit of excellence and customer service every step of the way.

Monika’s passion for the field of technology started at Winnipeg Tech College. Through a practicum at Powerland, she found herself immersed in a dynamic environment where she could channel her enthusiasm for technology into tangible contributions. Starting from the assembly line, where computers were meticulously crafted from scratch, Monika quickly showcased her skills and versatility. From building computers to servicing and fixing them, Monika’s journey unfolded with a blend of hands-on experience and continuous learning. Her role evolved over time, encompassing diverse tasks such as installing MTS internet for over a thousand customers. Amidst the demands of her career, Monika also embraced the joys of motherhood, navigating the delicate balance between work and family.

Reflecting on her journey, Monika emphasizes the impact of mentorship and teamwork on her professional growth. Coming of age in an era when computers were still a novelty, she vividly recalls her first encounter with technology, her first cell phone, and the transformative journey that followed. For Monika, technology represents not just a career but endless possibilities. At Powerland, mentorship isn’t just a concept for Monika—it’s a lived experience. Monika values the opportunity to mentor students, sharing her knowledge and wisdom while also learning from their fresh perspectives. For her, teamwork isn’t just about achieving shared goals; it’s about fostering a sense of camaraderie and support that improves every aspect of your job. Monika is grateful for her coworkers support and collaboration which has helped her succeed, underscoring the invaluable role of teamwork in the tech industry.

With each challenge overcome and every milestone achieved, Monika Sommerhalder exemplifies the potential of passion and dedication in shaping a successful career in technology. Her journey showcases the importance of teamwork and mentorship in driving success, as she continually seeks to uplift and empower those around her. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and mutual support, Monika ensures that Powerland remains at the forefront of technological innovation, while also inspiring others to embrace the opportunities for growth.

Pauline Afrooz, Senior Account Executive

Breaking Barriers: Pauline Afrooz and How Mentorship Shapes the Success of Women in Tech Sales

April 18, 2024

Meet Pauline, a Senior Account Executive at Powerland, who’s not just selling products but making waves in the tech industry, especially for women like herself.

Pauline’s journey in tech sales began back in her university days, where she stumbled upon her passion for business and sales during an entrepreneurship and sales program. Back then, terms like “cloud” and “storage” were foreign to her. But, she was a quick learner, ranking in the top 2 percent of her class and a desire to continue learning.

Her mentor played a huge role in nudging her towards the tech industry, and she’s never looked back since joining SHI in 2011. What she loves about tech sales? It’s not just about pushing products; it’s about solving real problems for real people. Every day, she gets to connect with clients, understand their struggles, and come up with solutions that actually make a difference. Plus, there’s the thrill of working with cutting-edge tech and seeing how it can transform businesses for the better. “There’s an element of creativity and innovation involved, as I work with cutting-edge technologies to help organizations streamline processes, improve efficiency, and drive growth. What truly inspires me is the impact I can have – knowing that my efforts contribute to making businesses more successful and ultimately, making people’s work lives easier and more productive. Tech sales isn’t just a job for me; it’s a passion fueled by the opportunity to empower others and create positive change through technology“, Pauline Afrooz.

But let’s talk about mentorship. Pauline’s mentors have been instrumental in her success, guiding her through the ups and downs of the tech world with their wisdom and encouragement. They’ve been there for her during moments of uncertainty, cheering her on when she nails that big deal, and reminding her to keep pushing her limits. Her mentors have shown her that success in tech sales is as much about understanding people’s needs as it is about hitting targets. “Their insights and encouragement have empowered me to navigate challenges and make informed decisions, shaping my trajectory in the tech industry. Despite over a decade of experience, I remain committed to continuous learning, eagerly seeking out mentorship opportunities to further enhance my skills and knowledge“, Pauline Afrooz.

Pauline continues to touch on the importance of female tech mentors, “Beyond just sharing their knowledge, they’ve invested their time and energy in nurturing my growth, offering constructive feedback, encouragement, and unwavering support every step of the way. They’ve believed in me even when I doubted myself, pushing me to reach for higher goals and strive for excellence. But perhaps most importantly, my mentors have shown me the power of genuine human connection in a world often dominated by technology. They’ve taught me that success in tech sales isn’t just about closing deals or hitting targets; it’s about building meaningful relationships, understanding people’s needs, and genuinely caring about their success.”

As she continues her journey in tech, Pauline is committed to giving back. Recognizing the pivotal role mentorship plays for women in the industry, she’s determined to be a guiding force for others, igniting ambition and inspiring other women in tech.

So here’s to Pauline and all the women out there who are making waves in the tech world. With a little bit of mentorship and a whole lot of determination, there’s nothing they can’t achieve.

Daryna Beha, Accounting Associate Professional

Spotlight: Daryna Beha’s Journey at Powerland – A Testament to Growth and Dedication

April 11, 2024

Today, we shine a spotlight on Daryna, our diligent Accounting Associate Professional, whose journey exemplifies the spirit of growth, resilience, and dedication.

Daryna embarked on her career with Powerland in September 2022, marking the beginning of a transformative chapter in her professional life. Moving from Ukraine, Daryna arrived in Canada seeking opportunities to flourish in her chosen field of accounting. Joining Powerland proved to be the perfect launchpad for her ambitions, and she quickly became an integral part of our team.

In her role as an Accounting Associate Professional, Daryna has showcased exceptional skills and unwavering commitment to her responsibilities. Her meticulous attention to detail and proficiency in financial matters have significantly contributed to the efficiency and accuracy of our accounting operations. From managing accounts payable to reconciling financial statements, Daryna consistently delivers results of the highest caliber. However, what truly sets Daryna apart is her drive for growth and self-improvement. Despite her already impressive performance, she embarked on a journey to pursue her Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation, a testament to her relentless pursuit of excellence. It is a journey that demands dedication, hard work, and unwavering determination, qualities that Daryna possesses in abundance.

Moreover, Daryna’s role as an integral member of the Powerland team underscores the importance of diversity and inclusion within tech organizations. Women like Daryna bring unique perspectives and skills to the table, enriching the collaborative environment and driving innovation forward. We recognize the invaluable contributions of Daryna and other women in shaping the future of technology and inspiring others to pursue their passions.

Rhea Idema

Unlocking Potential: Rhea Idema’s Contributions to Women in Tech

April 4, 2024

Rhea’s journey began at Powerland in 2016, where she embarked on a path marked by versatility and growth. Prior to Powerland, Rhea held various roles in the tech sector, providing her with a wealth of experience and expertise along the way.

Passionate about fostering diversity and inclusion, Rhea is a mentor to women entering the tech field. Recognizing the scarcity of female role models when she began her own career, she now strives to fill that void by providing invaluable guidance and support to aspiring women in tech. Drawing from her own experiences, Rhea emphasizes the importance of humor, resilience, and determination in navigating the often-challenging landscape of the tech industry.

Having personally witnessed the transformative power of tech in her own career, Rhea is committed to empowering others to seize the countless opportunities it offers. As a mentor, she serves as a sounding board, offering practical advice and encouragement to those navigating their way through the tech world. Rhea encourages curiosity and continuous learning, and to embrace the spirit of inquiry, never hesitating to ask questions and seek understanding.

Rhea is an invaluable asset to the Powerland team. We are thrilled to have her expertise and passion to help drive our mission forward.

Maggie Smith, Purchasing Officer

Empowering Excellence: Maggie Smith

March 21, 2024

Introducing Maggie Smith, our remarkable Purchasing Officer here at Powerland! With 7 years of dedicated service, Maggie has been an invaluable asset to our team.

As a Purchasing Officer, Maggie plays a pivotal role in our operations. She collaborates closely with our sales team and suppliers, ensuring seamless transactions and timely delivery of goods and services to our customers. Her expertise in navigating distribution channels and utilizing portals for product delivery reconciliation has been instrumental in optimizing our procurement processes.

But Maggie’s contributions go beyond her job description. As a woman in tech, she exemplifies resilience and excellence in a field often dominated by men. Her journey inspires us all to break barriers and pursue our passions fearlessly. Mentorship is central to Maggie’s core value. She actively engages in empowering individuals’ talents within our organization, guiding other teammates to unlock their full potential. Her dedication to empowering others underscores her commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone thrives.

Join us in celebrating Maggie’s achievements.

Kathleen Chomynec, Director of Sales West

Leading with Passion: Kathleen Chomynec

March 14, 2024

Two years ago, Powerland welcomed a powerhouse addition to our team: Kathleen Chomynec, our Director of Sales West. With an unwavering commitment to excellence and a passion for continuous learning, Kathleen brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to our organization.

Kathleen doesn’t just excel in her role; she thrives in it. Her dedication to staying at the forefront of industry trends and her pursuit of personal and professional development are truly inspiring. She understands the invaluable support and guidance that can come from someone who has walked a similar path. Kathleen emphasizes the importance of having those candid conversations—be it funny anecdotes, embarrassing moments, daunting challenges, or triumphant wins—with someone who can relate on a deeper level. For Kathleen, mentorship is about having that sounding board to bounce ideas off, to ask the question, “Am I on the right track here, or out to lunch!?” It’s about fostering a network of individuals who not only support you but also challenge your thinking, pushing you to be the best version of yourself.

While Kathleen acknowledges the significance of female mentorship in her journey, she also recognizes the invaluable contributions of her broader network, comprising both men and women. It’s this diverse support system that provides her with comfort on challenging days and empowers her to keep pushing forward.

So, here’s to Kathleen: a leader, a learner, and a champion of mentorship. Thank you for being an inspiration to all women in the tech industry. Powerland is fortunate to have you steering our sales efforts with such skill and passion.

Kara Luff, Executive Administrator & Coordinator

Kara Luff: Navigating Tech

March 7, 2024

Armed with a diverse skill set, Kara Luff found herself drawn to the ever-evolving nature of the tech industry. She has a dynamic background spanning construction, project management, and financial education, that has seamlessly transitioned into the tech industry, where she currently serves as the Executive Administrator & Coordinator at Powerland. Since joining the company in July 2023, Kara has made remarkable strides in her eight months with the organization.

Reflecting on her journey, Kara emphasizes the importance of recognizing one’s own value. She encourages aspiring women in tech never to underestimate their capabilities or hesitate in pursuing opportunities. In a field where women may sometimes feel inadequate, Kara advocates for a strong self-belief and the confidence to claim the recognition they deserve.

Working closely with senior leadership teams, Kara is inspired by the strong presence of women in leadership positions within the Powerland. Influential figures like Christine Stanton, Maureen Mitchell, and Kathleen Chomynec have become not just mentors but sources of motivation, actively shaping the landscape for women in the tech industry. Their guidance and support highlight the importance of female mentorship in propelling the advancement of women in the tech industry, inspiring future generations like Kara to thrive.

As Kara Luff continues to make her mark in the tech industry, her journey serves as a testament to the limitless possibilities for women who dare to explore and excel in the field. Her story is inspiring for aspiring women in tech, reminding them to embrace their diverse backgrounds and seize every opportunity with confidence and determination.

Audrey Ritcher, Director Sales, East

Audrey Ritcher: Sales Success and Inspiring the Tech Industry

February 29, 2024

In the fast-paced and ever-evolving world of technology, Audrey Ritcher stands as an inspiration of leadership. With a career at Xerox, and now Powerland, a Xerox Business Solutions Company, spanning 15 years, Audrey has not only navigated the dynamic landscape of the tech sector but has also emerged as a driving force behind the success of her teams. Currently serving as the Director Sales, East at Powerland, Audrey oversees a team of 12 people, and territories including Ontario, Quebec, and the Maritimes. She emphasizes values such as persistence, kindness, and collaboration within her team. Audrey’s leadership style centers on fostering a positive and creative environment, enabling her team to overcome challenges collectively.

Audrey’s Advice for Aspiring Tech Professionals

For those embarking on a career in the tech industry, Audrey offers valuable advice. She emphasizes maintaining a positive outlook, focusing on solutions, and approaching challenges strategically. Developing a creative mindset, eliminating silos for a customer-centric focus, and demonstrating care for team members are crucial components of success. Audrey encourages aspiring professionals to be bold in the face of adversity and to stay true to themselves, and remember that they have the ability to overcome challenges.

“As someone who has often found herself as the sole woman in the room, I maintained focus and a clear career objective. Originating from my determination to achieve success, I participated in the early Xerox Sales Classes during my business school years. It was there that I learned the problem-solving approach of the sector, and it sparked a profound interest. Delivering modern solutions to age-old problems, efficiently achieving more, has since given me great pride. One of the most valuable pieces of advice I’ve received is to remain humble, treating professional growth like a team sport, consistently striving to improve and learn. Challenge the status quo, trust your instincts, and have confidence in pursuing your dreams.” – Audrey Ritcher

Audrey Ritcher’s journey is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and continuous learning in the technology sector. As she continues to lead her team at Powerland, Audrey’s story serves as an inspiration for aspiring professionals, emphasizing the importance of positivity, creativity, and mentorship in the pursuit of success in the dynamic world of technology.

Calli, Executive Events Coordinator

Mastering the Art of Tech Events: Spotlight on Calli, our Exceptional Executive Events Coordinator

February 9, 2024

The impact of women mentors like Calli in the tech industry resonates profoundly. Through mentorship, the industry becomes enriched by diverse talents and perspectives. Calli’s contribution is not just in executing flawless events, but showcasing the positive ripple effect of female mentorship.

In the 7 months that Calli has been a part of Powerland, she continues to seamlessly plan, organize, and execute events for Powerland with precision and expertise. Her driven nature propels her towards goals with passion and determination, turning challenges into opportunities for success. As a creative thinker, Calli consistently explores new ideas, curating unforgettable events and delivering unique and memorable experiences.

Prior to joining Powerland, Calli had experience in various aspects of event coordination, including managing travel arrangements, organization, networking, working with numbers, and a drive for delivering exceptional results. Upon joining Powerland, she found the perfect role as Executive Events Coordinator, where she can seamlessly integrate all her skills while having the opportunity to deepen her knowledge and acquire new skills.

Female mentorship in the tech industry has pushed beyond Calli’s comfort zones, facilitating rapid personal and professional growth. Learning from her female leader’s extensive marketing experience inspires her to exceed in the tech field. Having female mentors in tech is crucial as they bring diverse perspectives, experiences, and insights to the table, fostering an inclusive environment. Their guidance not only empowers aspiring women in the field but also helps break down gender barriers, paving the way for greater equality and innovation in the ever-evolving tech industry.

As Calli continues to advance in her tech career, we have confidence that she will extend mentorship to numerous women entering the industry after her, contributing to a supportive and empowering community for the next generation of female tech professionals.

Christine Stanton, Vice President, Sales Operations

Empowering the Future: Celebrating Women Role Models in Tech

January 30, 2024

The presence of women mentors and role models in the world of technology has been a transformative force, inspiring innovation and fostering diversity. By sharing their experiences, expertise, and insights, they provide invaluable guidance to the next generation of female technologists. Their success stories challenge stereotypes and contribute to a more inclusive and dynamic tech landscape. The positive influence of women mentors not only empowers women in their professional journeys but also enriches the industry by harnessing the diverse perspectives and talents that emerge when barriers are dismantled.

Exploring the Inspirational Path of Christine Stanton in the World of Tech

Christine Stanton is an accomplished and dynamic leader, currently serving as the Vice President, Sales Operations at Powerland’s Winnipeg division. With a passion for driving growth and building meaningful relationships, Christine plays a pivotal role in propelling Powerland’s success in the competitive technology market.

Christine’s journey in the sales industry began with a determination to make a difference. Armed with a degree in Business Administration, she embarked on a career path that would later become her true calling. Her early experiences in sales honed her skills in negotiation, strategic planning, and client relationship management. Drawn to Powerland’s vision of technological innovation and sustainability, Christine embraced the opportunity to contribute her talents to the organization. Joining as a Sales Manager, she quickly demonstrated her exceptional leadership skills and an innate ability to inspire her team to excel.

Recognizing Christine’s outstanding contributions, dedication, and results-driven approach, Powerland soon promoted her to the esteemed position of Vice President, Sales Operations. In this capacity, Christine is responsible for driving the sales strategy, identifying new business opportunities, and fostering partnerships to accelerate Powerland’s market presence in Winnipeg and beyond.

Christine’s leadership is distinguished by her strategic vision and keen understanding of market trends. By staying ahead of the curve and anticipating customer needs, she ensures that Powerland’s offerings align with the evolving demands of the tech-savvy clientele.

As a charismatic leader, Christine empowers her sales teams to achieve their fullest potential. Through mentorship, coaching, and fostering a culture of continuous learning, she cultivates high-performance teams that are driven to exceed sales targets while delivering exceptional customer experiences. A firm believer in the value of exceptional customer service, Christine instills a customer-centric approach throughout the sales organization. By putting customers’ needs first and ensuring that their expectations are not only met but surpassed, she fosters long-lasting relationships and loyalty. Under Christine’s guidance, Powerland’s has achieved remarkable growth and market penetration. Her strategic initiatives and emphasis on collaboration have contributed significantly to Powerland’s reputation as a leading technology provider in the region.

Christine Stanton’s exceptional leadership as the Vice President, Sales Operations at Powerland is a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence and her ability to drive positive change. Through her visionary approach, she continues to elevate Powerland’s sales performance and position the company as a key player in the technology industry.

Christine Stanton’s journey exemplifies the profound impact that women leaders can have in the realm of technology. Her ascendancy from Sales Manager to Vice President, Sales Operations at Powerland underscores not only her personal achievements but also the transformative power of mentorship and representation. By navigating challenges with resilience and strategic vision, Christine not only propels Powerland’s success, but also inspires aspiring female technologists, contributing to a more inclusive and dynamic future for the IT industry.