Natriece

Tell us about your journey into tech?
I have worked in government for the last 13 years. I was a leader in the industry when it comes to implementing projects and technology on tracking systems as well as enforcement for local, State and federal government. I worked for the City and County of Denver in the City Attorney’s Office helping with cybersecurity to prevent elder abuse. I also worked for the Department of Revenue – Marijuana Enforcement Division when Colorado legalized marijuana at the recreational level. We created technology that would allow for enforcement and tracking of products to ensure compliance at the State level. I also developed a cybersecurity training at the Department of Regulatory Agencies for banking and financial services to prevent elder fraud cases at all institutions. It was in partnership with AARP. I am now working for the Governor’s Office of Information Technology as the Deputy Chief Customer Officer. We implement all technology for the State and ensure security, compliance and capability for all State agencies.

How do you feel you have made a difference in what you do?
I have made a difference because we have been able to launch technology in Colorado that not only aligns with security needs but also protects all Coloradans. The need for cybersecurity, compliance and safety is important to Colorado and I have helped lead the way on this within the State.

What would you say is your biggest achievement?
My biggest achievement is writing my book in 2020 on prejudice and discrimination and the overlap within health equity, technology, education, housing and other barriers. The book focuses on the equity issues that we have seen for the last 50(+) years and looks at ways in which we can align the playing field for everyone.

How do you think people can go about making a difference, in regards to spreading awareness of Black Women in tech?
I believe that life is 10% of what happens and 90% of how we react. I think that people can continue to support Black women in tech by looking at the value that we bring to the industry as well as the platform. Equity is a primary reason that communities of colour are still behind in many facets of society. Access to technology is one of those reasons. As we continue to the conversation behind how we bridge the gap in communities of colour, we also need women of colour, Black women in roles of leadership and at the table for discussion as we continue to fill in the areas that are needed worldwide.