Women of the UA Tech Park

Inspiring
Women in Tech ​

At the UA Tech Park, we celebrate the women whose curiosity, leadership, and creativity fuel a thriving ecosystem of innovation. Every day, women across our campus push the boundaries of what’s possible—advancing research, building companies, leading teams, and strengthening the collaborative spirit that defines our community. Across teams ranging from fast‑growing startups to established tech powerhouses, the women at the UA Tech Park are helping shape the future of Southern Arizona and beyond. Their work drives discovery, accelerates new ideas, and inspires the next generation to confidently step into fields where representation and opportunity continue to expand.

But beyond their professional accomplishments, the women of the UA Tech Park enrich our community in ways that are just as meaningful. They mentor colleagues, champion inclusivity, build partnerships and model what it looks like to lead with purpose. Their presence strengthens the culture of the UA Tech Park—one built on collaboration, bold thinking and genuine support for one another. In 2026, we honor not only their achievements, but also the community we create together. A community where women at every stage of their careers are valued, visible and celebrated. A community where innovation grows because people feel empowered to contribute. Join us in recognizing the extraordinary women who shape the UA Tech Park.

Women of the
UA tech park 2026

Amber Parker

Software Engineering Co-Op – IBM

I am a woman of resolute spirit and insurmountable will.  

I am a first-generation college graduate and a non-traditional engineer who chose to change direction and pursue a STEM degree and career path after successfully establishing an entrepreneurial business endeavor as a hairdresser. I began at community college, worked throughout my education, and returned to school driven by the belief that persistence can rewrite any story. I am a co-op engineer at IBM completing an accelerated master’s degree program, proving that impact is not defined by title or timing. My journey is deeply rooted in community and shaped by SHPE, Reina Hood, and Reinas Who Hike spaces that taught me the power of mentorship and collective success. I believe in opening doors, lifting others as I rise, and leading with purpose. Like Reinas, I believe we should hold each other’s crowns because when one of us rises, we all rise. 

Andrea Wallace

CMMS System Administrator – Tech Parks Arizona

I am a woman of momentum. 

My career has never been static; it has shifted, expanded, and refined itself over time, much like the software and technology that inspire me. Every chapter of my life has felt like a new version release—shaped by experience, fueled by curiosity, tested by challenge, and refined through growth. 

Living on three continents and traveling to more than 30 countries with my active-duty military husband has been the greatest catalyst for that evolution. Each new environment required me to adapt quickly, understand unfamiliar systems, and balance multiple priorities with clarity and intention. From remote bases to crowded cities, I learned to navigate fast changing conditions and build stability wherever I landed. Those experiences strengthened the way I approach both life and leadership. 

Collaboration defines me. I bring people together, build trust, and spark ideas through open communication—creating some of the strongest solutions I’ve been part of. 

Emotional intelligence guides my decisions. I lead with awareness, empathy, and a long-view mindset, looking beyond immediate outcomes to understand people and purpose. Blending logic with humanity helps me build solutions that are thoughtful, sustainable, and grounded in integrity. 

Resilience has been the constant thread woven through every transition. Starting over again and again — new countries, new cultures, new expectations — taught me how to stay centered while everything around me changes. Each move strengthened my strategic thinking and deepened my confidence in my ability to adapt and succeed. 

Trishelle Sheldon

Executive Assistant – Raytheon

I am a woman of authenticity.

My story is one of growth shaped by my lived experience. As a wife, a mother, and an executive administrative professional, I’ve learned how much leadership shows up in the everyday moments. How you listen, how you coach, support and respond when things don’t go as planned is what sets you apart. Balancing these roles has taught me to think holistically and to understand how decisions impact people, not just outcomes. Along the way, I discovered my strength in empathy and emotional awareness through the relationships I’ve built.  

I am a woman who leads by creating trust, bringing calm to complexity, and lifts others as I grow. I believe true leadership is rooted in inclusion, intention and care. My journey continues to shape the woman I am; one who shows up with resilience, compassion and a commitment to making spaces better for the people within them. 

Vanessa M Johnson

Associate Fraud Ops Analyst – Citi

I am a woman with a voice — one that I’ve learned to honor, strengthen, and use not only for myself but for others. My journey in business began long before I recognized my own potential. I didn’t always see the “gold inside,” as I like to say. I simply worked hard, kept my head down, and focused on getting things done. But over time, I discovered that my path had purpose far bigger than the day-to-day tasks. 

Joining the Women’s Network at Citi was a turning point for me. What I thought would be just another professional development opportunity quickly became a source of personal growth, community, and empowerment. It helped me step into my identity as a woman in business — someone who can lead, uplift, and challenge the norms around me. 

My greatest supporter is my husband. His support has helped shape the professional I’ve become. As a leader, I am a mentor at heart. I relate to people naturally, and I know how to turn personal connection into professional development.  

I bring a naturally bubbly, energetic spirit to my work and prioritize connection, grounded in the belief that we’re linked by our shared humanity. That’s why people choose me as a mentor — I know how to connect differences and help people find their path forward. 

My hope is to leave a legacy that encourages others to be comfortable in their own skin. I want people — especially women — to know that negativity should never steal their light. Your voice is powerful. Keep pushing. Keep speaking. Keep rising. Be bold. Be confident. Be yourself. 

Diem Thu Curtis

Quality Assurance Team Lead – IBM

I am a woman of resilience. 

From an early age, I was drawn to math and science, dreaming of becoming a doctor who could help people and improve lives through innovation. Growing up in a developing country, however, I had no access to a computer—I had never even touched a mouse. My introduction to technology began not in a classroom, but with curiosity and a screwdriver, when my family saved enough to purchase our first PC after arriving in the United States. This moment shifted my dream from medicine to computer science, proving that early limitations can become powerful motivators. 

Guided by my mother’s belief that education opens doors, but determination keeps them open, I navigated the challenges of a male-dominated tech industry and rose to become a Quality Assurance (QA) team lead. 

I carry her lessons into my leadership style by elevating others, making space for different voices, and reminding young women that perseverance can expand the story they believe is possible.  My leadership is defined by empathy and strategic collaboration; I believe that diverse perspectives are not just inclusive but are technical requirements for better outcomes.  

By being open about my own journey, I hope to show young women that you don’t need a perfect path or early access to technology to thrive in this field. What matters is your curiosity, courage, and persistence.  Today, my purpose is to prove that our backgrounds are sources of strength. I am committed to ensuring that women belong, lead, and thrive in every room where the future is being built. 

If I can go from never touching a computer to leading a technical team, then there are no limits to what they can achieve. 

Samantha Megerle

Accountant – Tech Parks Arizona

I am a woman of purpose. 

My path has never been linear, but every twist has strengthened my determination to grow, adapt, and redefine what’s possible for myself. I began in a field where I often had to work twice as hard to be taken seriously, and those experiences sharpened my confidence, my voice, and my commitment to showing up with integrity. Choosing to return to school and pivot careers after more than a decade was one of my hardest and most defining decisions, proof that courage isn’t a moment, but a practice. 

I strive to lead with clarity, empathy, and intention, creating spaces where others feel heard and supported. My family is my driving force, inspiring me to grow, stretch, and embody the strength, purpose, and self-belief I want to pass on. I hope my journey shows that growth at any stage is possible and that women belong everywhere decisions are made. 

Amanda J. Manos

President/CEO – Darling Geomatics

I am a woman of bold reliance.  

I strive to do my best in a world where that isn’t always seen or celebrated. My journey—from Alaska’s untamed stretches to leadership in a field where women remain few—has taught me that resilience is not quiet; it is bold. It is the act of writing new chapters when the old ones don’t fit.  

Bias, stereotypes, setbacks—yes, I’ve faced them all. But I’ve learned not to measure a room by how many women are in it. I use my difference as an advantage. If someone overlooks my contributions, I no longer spend energy convincing them. I move forward. When an opportunity didn’t open, there was a better one ahead. Resilience taught me to keep walking, believing and pushing.  

And through it all—community has carried me. Mentorship, friendships, and collaboration built the foundation of the career I have today.  

I pride myself on pursuing excellence—both personally and for my team. I want every environment I’m part of to be a place where people can learn, grow, laugh, and discover what they’re capable of. Women bring detail, diligence, empathy, and a careful, conscientious approach to STEM fields, and I’ve learned to use those strengths rather than hide them. After decades in a male dominated industry, I serve as a sounding board for women navigating struggles I once faced alone.  

I am proud of many things, but becoming the fourth woman to serve as President of the National Society of Professional Surveyors stands near the top. My work with the Future Surveyors Foundation has broadened my world, given me purpose and allowed me to shape the next generation entering this profession.  

I measure success by the health and happiness of the people around me. If my team is thriving, learning, and enjoying the work we’re privileged to perform, then I know I’ve done my job well. My hope is to leave a legacy that opens doors—one that gives others the chance to improve their lives, build wealth, and create a personal and professional story they can be proud of. My advice to young women entering STEM is simple: don’t set aside your superpowers. Your empathy, your focus, your drive—these are strengths. Use them.  
 

Kelly Lensink 

Director of Product Strategy & Delivery – Citi

I am a woman of purpose—grounded, decisive, and committed to leading with integrity, fairness, and respect.  

I strive to create environments where people feel supported, valued, and empowered to grow by creating the space for dialogue and modeling the respect and inclusivity I want to see. 

I bring a unique perspective that drives me to support and encourage women in the workplace. Whether through sharing my expertise, connecting women to resources, or simply offering encouragement, I aim to create pathways that help more women thrive. 

My background in musical theater and economics adds another dimension to how I approach my work. Those disciplines trained me to listen closely, adapt quickly, see the big picture, and communicate with clarity and empathy. When people know your character and your capabilities, the dynamics in the room shift in meaningful ways.  Working in development allows me to lead with clarity and intention. My commitment to community engagement keeps me connected to the broader impact of my work and fuels my passion for service. 

I believe in balancing meaningful work with a rich personal life. Strong family ties keep me centered, while investing in my own well-being and development allows me to lead with intention and empathy. My commitment to community engagement keeps me connected to the broader impact of my work and fuels my passion for service. 

Above all, I am a woman who leads with purpose and heart—anchored by family, driven by community, and focused on creating space for others to rise. 

Mary Darling

Retired, Former CEO/Principal Owner – Darling Geomatics

I am a woman grounded in serenity. 

I know hard work, tough times, discipline, and compassion.  I have been blessed with a healthy work-life balance, an adventurous spirit and faith in God. 

Serenity and purpose have guided my career, which has been both intentional and serendipitous. I could not achieve anything meaningful without the wonderful support of those around me, especially my husband.  God has given me the ability to learn from each experience and move forward with new perspective.  The growth that came through trial and error, persistence and perseverance has been immense and rewarding.  I now understand that my mistakes were a blessing in disguise – lessons I did not want to repeat.  I had two choices: learn and go forward or quit.  I chose to learn, and I am grateful for the hard lessons that made my career possible.  I did not always know what career I wanted, but I discovered an aptitude for science and technology that aligned with my love of the outdoors, and I found purpose in my work. 

My advice to others is to follow your passion.  We spend so much of our lives working that it is important to choose a path we genuinely enjoy. Rather than chasing money, focus on doing meaningful work, and success will follow. 

I am a dynamic collaborator and mentor, dedicated to lifting the next generation of STEM and business professionals. 

Through my work with JTED, SheTech, and hands-on internships, I actively share my experience and help others to discover their own strength and passion. I have also taken on influential leadership roles in major professional associations including the Society of American Military Engineers—stepping forward, setting high standards and championing women in traditionally male-dominated fields. My commitment to teaching, supporting others, and leading with integrity has allowed me to serve as both a trusted voice and a catalyst for growth and opportunity in my community. 

People measure success in many ways, but for me, true success is found in peace of mind, healthy relationships, and the well-being of both body and spirit. When my life is grounded in serenity, I know I am living with purpose and fulfillment. 

Michelle Ramos Hernandez

Software Engineer – IBM

I am a woman of perseverance. 

Raised in Tucson, I graduated from Amphitheater High School and earned a Computer Science degree from the University of Arizona. Drawn to math and science early on, I sought out and embraced every STEM opportunity I could find – Girls Who Code, VEX Robotics, MESA – not just to learn, but to find a sense of belonging. 

As a Hispanic, first-generation student and the youngest of three, I didn’t grow up with many examples of careers in higher education or technology. Seeing people who shared my background succeed helped me understand what was possible. My parents’ sacrifices shaped my deep work ethic, and the support of mentors, professors, and peers taught me to lead with empathy and confidence. I strive to create inclusive spaces where every voice matters. I aim to be a bridge for others, helping inspire and support them as they work toward their goals. I am deeply grateful for every blessing on my journey. The path wasn’t always easy, but perseverance carried me forward. Keep going—even when it’s hard. Progress often comes from persistence. Measure success by your growth—who you are today compared to yesterday—because progress matters, no matter the pace or what gets thrown your way. 

Kimberly Rider

Executive Administrator – Raytheon

I am a woman of intentional optimism.

That spirit has been with me for as long as I can remember. As a child, I would “play office,” never realizing that one day I would grow into a professional dedicated to fostering a positive, collaborative work environment. 

As an Executive Administrator, my role extends far beyond daily tasks. I strive to support my team by approaching every responsibility with care, intention, and positivity. Communication, collaboration, and community have shaped me, helping me build meaningful relationships that continue to guide who I am today. 

My positivity informs my work and encourages others, grounded in the belief that good can emerge even from difficult moments. I aim to create an environment where people feel motivated, productive, and uplifted. Building meaningful relationships is central to my approach—I listen deeply, seek to understand my colleagues, and work alongside them toward shared goals. I’m passionate about learning from others, sharing knowledge, and embracing diverse perspectives to find the best path forward. 

As I’ve grown up in my career, my passion for supporting others has deepened. My work allows me to bring stability, encouragement, and optimism to the people around me. My colleagues feel valued, supported, and connected. 

One of the greatest breakthroughs in my career came from leaders who empowered me to make decisions—leaders who trusted me, encouraged my judgment, and refused to micromanage. Their confidence in me built my confidence. That freedom to think, choose, act, and lead helped me grow in ways I never imagined. It allowed me to take off, make intentional decisions, and create powerful impacts that shaped both my work and my development. 

My career experiences have taught me the importance of compassion, resilience, and bringing my best self to work every day. 

Diana Terrazas-Lugo

Program Manager – MAF Consulting

I am a woman of delightfulness.  

While that quality may not always be highlighted in professional STEM spaces, it shapes how I approach my work and the people around me. I bring a fresh, positive perspective rooted in growing up in Tucson, where I saw how limited access to technology created real challenges. Growing up, learning to navigate the digital world became a natural and necessary part of my journey. That early exposure to navigating a digital world not only shaped my future but strengthened my commitment to creating opportunities for others to do the same. Today, I am proud of who I am and grateful for the opportunity to give back to the community that helped shape my purpose. 

Samantha Lloyd

Fraud Operations Sr. Supervisor Officer – Citi

I am a woman of bold confidence and purposeful growth. 

My professional journey has been dynamic, fueled by a deep commitment to personal and professional excellence. I’ve been shaped by colleagues who championed diversity, culture, and Citi’s mission—an environment that inspired both my growth and purpose. 

A pivotal influence in my career has been Lia Zobrist, whose example taught me to never underestimate myself and to lead with confidence and self-belief. As a woman in a minority group, I’ve navigated challenges in asserting my worth and finding my voice, building confidence through strength and resilience. 

As a leader, I am strong, bold, and fair, focused on developing skills and nurturing talent. I believe women bring a unique relatability and compassion to the business world—qualities that strengthen teams and drive meaningful impact. My perspective is further enriched by my commitment to my children and family, which I balance with the demands of an ever-evolving work environment. 

Throughout my career, I’ve led pilot programs that sharpened my strategic thinking and expanded my perspective. I’ve also successfully managed high-volume onboarding and training during periods of rapid transition and growth, while advocating for volunteerism and strengthening partnerships within our training division. For me, success—both personally and professionally—is measured by growth in confidence. 

I hope to leave a legacy of bold leadership that inspires women to take chances, navigate bias, and turn setbacks into success. Community involvement and collaboration are central to that vision, as they foster exposure, connection, and opportunity. 

My advice to young women is simple: see the bigger picture, advocate boldly, and know your worth. I’m passionate about mentoring others with compassion and care. 

Looking ahead, my focus is on building a more inclusive industry by strengthening my skills, navigating challenges, and uplifting women leaders. My work is guided by a commitment to diversity, lifelong learning, and empowering others. 

Yohana Yohannes  

Fraud Operations Sr Supervisor (Officer), Citi  

I am a woman of unyielding determination, fueled by creative approaches, bold moves, and an unwavering passion for making a difference. 

I am the type of woman who not only welcomes but actively seeks out challenges, finding profound fulfillment in feeling stimulated and pouring my very best effort into every endeavor. Even when a task seems overwhelming, this continuous drive propels me forward, ensuring I’m always growing. My advice to young women growing into their careers is to always think big picture. Life inevitably presents moments that cause us to doubt ourselves. However, it’s crucial to recognize that every experience, even perceived failures, can be a steppingstone to success. To nurture this spirit, I proactively immerse myself in learning, devouring articles on emerging initiatives, and eagerly pursuing training opportunities that enrich me both professionally and personally.  

Through education and encouraging women to take advantage of passing opportunities, I envision a deliberate commitment to increasing the representation of women from underrepresented backgrounds in leadership, on executive boards, with a transparent effort to broaden access to leadership pathways. Meaningful change requires not only opening doors, but ensuring women are prepared, confident, and invited to walk through them. 

As a proud first-generation American, I learned early on the immense value of adaptability, innovative thinking, and making confident, impactful decisions. By leveraging my unique perspective and confidently owning my skills, I have become a leader who prioritizes collaboration and empathy. These qualities have not only shaped my journey but have enabled me to build meaningful connections across diverse communities and emerge as a formidable force in my career—one who moves forward with resilience, intention, and a relentless commitment to excellence. 

Lucia Breault-Evans 

Chief of Staff, MAF Consulting  

I am a woman of roots. 

I grew up watching my mother change learners’ lives at the University of Arizona Eller College of Management and lead community transformation through LeadLocal. I saw my grandfather, Bob Breault, leave a legacy written into the landscape of Tucson itself — through optics research, institutions, and the many people he impacted. And today, I get to witness my brother creating real environmental change along the Santa Cruz River. 

I am who I am because of a community that consistently showed me the right way to be — a community that prioritized intention and the people right in front of them. 

That inheritance shapes everything I do: the systems I design, the programs I build, and the young people who experience them. None of it begins from scratch. It’s all in conversation with what came before. I’m continuing a story that was already beautiful — and I get to give back to it. 

Miriam Fleisher 

CFO and Operations Manager, Micro-Hybrid Electronics  

I’m a woman of resilience, patience and flexibility.

Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to work for—and alongside—strong women leaders. When I reflect on my professional journey, nearly 90% of my supervisors, owners, or CEOs have been women. Each has taught me invaluable lessons, from the importance of listening to truly understand, to communicating clearly, staying curious, committing to lifelong learning, and embracing new challenges as they arise.

I’ve worked across a wide range of industries, including real estate, banking, nonprofit organizations, and small family-owned businesses, and I’ve also owned businesses of my own. Every experience has contributed to the skills and insights that I carry with me today.

My “superpowers” are a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and the belief that every challenge is simply something to work through.

To me, success means knowing that my work makes a difference—that I’ve helped strengthen my organization as a business, as an employer, and as a positive contributor to the broader community. transformation through LeadLocal. I saw my grandfather, Bob Breault, leave a legacy written into the landscape of Tucson itself — through optics research, institutions, and the many people he impacted. And today, I get to witness my brother creating real environmental change along the Santa Cruz River. 

I am who I am because of a community that consistently showed me the right way to be — a community that prioritized intention and the people right in front of them. 

That inheritance shapes everything I do: the systems I design, the programs I build, and the young people who experience them. None of it begins from scratch. It’s all in conversation with what came before. I’m continuing a story that was already beautiful — and I get to give back to it. 

Teena Werley 

z/OS DFSMS Senior Software Engineer, IBM

I am a woman of curiosity.

My journey into STEM was anything but linear. As a college student, I struggled to find a path that fit. I started in Engineering, shifted to Biology, and then moved on to Computer Science. I took so many classes that by the end of my college career, I had earned Bachelor’s degrees in both Molecular and Cellular Biology and Computer Science, along with minors in four other subjects. It wasn’t that I disliked any of these fields; I loved each one. Rather, each led to another fascinating turn of the page, another tantalizing detail, another rabbit hole of curiosities to discover and learn.

I never planned to become a Tester for IBM, but a chance interview with a manager who appreciated my fascination with breaking things apart to discover how they worked set my path. The unknown is not always comfortable. I used to keep a sign in my office that said, “90% of being smart is knowing what you are dumb at.” I still live by that mantra—embrace the things you don’t know and use that curiosity as the driving force to learn and grow.

That curiosity has not waned. To this day, I continue to encourage others to nurture their own insatiable curiosity, understanding that every challenge is an opportunity to uncover something new. 

Diane Vargo 

Principal, Vail Academy and High School

I am a woman of impact.

I became a principal to make a meaningful difference in students’ lives and to foster a school culture where everyone, students and teachers alike, can thrive. Leading a school gives me the opportunity to create a place where students feel supported, challenged, and inspired, and where teachers can do their best work every day. I lead authentically, balancing empathy and accountability, and strive to be a leader of hope, instilling confidence and possibility in everyone around me. We hold high expectations for both students and staff, guided by a “work hard, play hard” philosophy that celebrates effort, growth, and achievement.

One of my proudest moments in my career was guiding a school to earn the National Blue Ribbon Award from the U.S. Department of Education in 2021 – a testament to what’s possible when a community works together toward a shared vision.

Being a woman in leadership hasn’t always been easy, but trusting my instincts and leading with authenticity has shaped my journey. I measure success by growth-in students, in teachers, and in the systems we build – and I hope to leave a legacy where students are empowered, educators thrive, and a culture of excellence endures.  

Isabel Rivera 

CEO/Founder, Pentakt

I am a woman of conviction.

Who am I? I am a proud, determined Latina who has carved out a place in the world of cybersecurity and compliance. Conviction is not just a word for me—it is the driving belief that with heart, grit, and dedication, I can meet any challenge and excel in the career path paved by those who came before me.

From a college student to a backend programmer advocating for equal pay… from being hired as “the diversity candidate” to finally landing my dream role… from seeking the elusive balance between work and life to ultimately launching my own business helping organizations navigate government compliance—my conviction has never wavered. I held tightly to the belief that every sacrifice would one day matter. And it did. Today, I stand confident in the career and the woman I’ve built. And I’m just getting started.

Women of the
UA TECH PARK archives

Women of the UA Tech Park 2025

2025

At the UA Tech Park, the achievements of women are woven into the fabric of our success.
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Women of the UA Tech Park 2024

2024

The women of the UA Tech Park embody leadership, creativity and perseverance.
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Women of the UA Tech Park 2023

2023

Innovation thrives when women lead and at the UA Tech Park, they are at the forefront.
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Women of the UA Tech Park 2021

2021

From pioneering research and leading startups, women at the UA Tech Park continue to raise the bar.
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Women of the UA Tech Park 2020

2020

Women at the UA Tech Park are redefining what's possible and continue to pave the way for the next generation.
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Women of the UA Tech Park 2019

2019

At the UA Tech park, we take pride in honoring and recognizing the remarkable achievements of women who work at the park.
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