This week, CRN published its annual Women of the Channel list, and I’m proud to say that six of the honorees are from the IBM Global Business Partners organization. Two of our leaders were also named to the Power 100 list, an elite subset of the prestigious annual Women of the Channel list.

Our IBM honorees are instrumental in driving success for PartnerWorld, which equips our partners with the Competencies and business support they need to excel in the Cognitive Era. They were recognized as CRN’s Women of the Channel for their outstanding leadership, vision and unique role in driving channel growth and innovation.

These IBMers are not only key leaders in today’s channel business; they are also role models for the next generation of IT leaders. Their experiences provide them with valuable perspectives. Here is some key advice that each of them shared when asked, “What advice would you give to young women who want to begin careers in technology?”

Michele Stern, Managing Director, Arrow – 2017 Women of the Channel & Power 100:

“If you have a passion for technology, GO FOR IT! Do your research, talk to mentors and learn about the many and varied technology-related career options that are available for you to pursue. The application of technology is rapidly changing our world and I think you will find that whatever your interests may be—sports, healthcare, fashion, finance, gaming, and the list goes on and on—women who are skilled in technology and understand how to use it to improve the way we work and live will have endless career opportunities.”—Michele Stern

Laurie Evans, Vice President of Worldwide Business Partner Digital and Commercial, Analytics, IBM Hybrid Cloud – 2017 Women of the Channel & Power 100:

“GO FOR IT! Do not hesitate. A career in technology does not mean you must be a programmer or a computer scientist. It can involve marketing, communication, business development or supply chain, for example. It is multifaceted, exciting and challenging. The industry is fast-paced and high-growth with many career opportunities. Based on the last two decades of my personal career, there has never been a better time for female talent in technology, from individual contributor to executive.”—Laurie Evans

Jayne Franchino, Vice President, Channel Management & Transformation – 2017 Women of the Channel:

“Take advantage of opportunities offered by organizations through schools and colleges to learn both the personal and technical skills needed to progress in a career in technology. Participate in internships or co-ops in technology companies for mentorship, establishing a network and future career opportunities. IBM has great partnerships with programs such as Girls Who Code (GWC), with their mission being to erase the gender gap in STEM. GWC offers workshops, field trips, summer camps and mentors to inspire and support young women.”—Jayne Franchino

Carola Cazenave, Vice President, Worldwide IBM Security, Routes to Market – 2017 Women of the Channel:
“If you are passionate about technology, follow your passion! I think now it is so common to see women in technology areas and the opportunities get bigger each year. We estimate that by 2020, the industry will have more than 1 million open positions in cyber security. If you are passionate about technology and want to help in important areas like government and security, join us!”—Carola Cazenave

Pamela McCray, IBM Client Director, North America, Tech Data – 2017 Women of the Channel:

“My advice is to find a mentor(s) who can help guide you with your current organizational landscape, as well as future business challenges and opportunities. Focus on networking and building connections within your own company as well as other technology providers. Invest in building community relationships (incubator programs, meet-ups, STEM groups). Schedule time to read/explore technology and industry information EVERY DAY—invest in your skills. Most importantly—the cornerstone of any long-term successful career—you MUST bring trust, integrity and transparency into your relationships.”—Pamela McCray

Denyse Cromwell-Mackey, Vice President, U.S. Technology Support Services, MVS & Alternative Channels – 2017 Women of the Channel:

“Go for it! Look at STEM skills as a means of YOU personally being able to revolutionize our future world shaped by technology.”—Denyse Cromwell-Mackey