Jen Curry Hendrickson, SVP at DataBank, shares how a career pivot - and a mentor who saw her potential - set her on a new path.

She reflects on being underestimated in technical spaces, learning to speak up, and the power of finding your champions.

Her advice? Be relentless. Say yes. And lift others as you rise.

Read more from Jen here…

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What has been your career defining moment as a woman in business?

My defining moment came early on in my career. I started out firmly believing accounting was my home and would be what I did for the entirety of my career. A few years in I realized maybe accounting wasn’t for me. This was also when one of my first mentors came to me and said “I think you have a natural talent for software and systems. I’m forming a new team and would like you on it.” That was the first step in my journey to where I am today. I truly alterted the trajectory of my career.

Were there any obstacles you had to overcome as a woman in business?

I believe it was more that I was a woman in a technical field and not necessarily just a female in business. It was very difficult to be heard and to step confidently into the conversation as the expert when it seemed that people in the room thought I was part of the admin staff.

What advice would you give to a younger woman looking to join your industry?

Be relentless. Be tough. Be authentic.

You will need to find your Champions and ensure you always nurture those relationships. It is difficult to do anything on your own in business but even more so as a woman trying to break stereotypes and forge your own path to success.

If you could do one thing to accelerate the pace of change for gender equality, what would it be?

More focus on addressing the unique challenges faced by women of different races, sexual orientations, socioeconomic backgrounds, and abilities through intersectional policies and programs. Highlight the success of well rounded teams as they provide creative solutions based on the differing experiences they are able to bring to driving business strategy.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Just say yes.

This is a common theme these days; yet, I still see hestiancy in females to say yes and accept the challenge for fear of a new opportunity that could be beneficial to their future success.

What’s your go-to advice for preventing burnout?

You have to realize you cannot do it all. At any point in time, something will be out of balance and that is ok.  

Why do you think it’s important for women to help other women win?

A rising tide lifts all boats. Another woman’s success will not take away from your own.  

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