Who Are We?
Tiffany Benitez - Founder & President
Tiffany grew up in the beautiful islands of Hawaii. She currently lives in Bentonville, AR with her husband and children. She has spent her career in technology, across several industries. She started her career in the finance industry, with 12 years at Bank of America. Tiffany then made a move to the retail industry and took a role in technology at Walmart’s Home Office. She led several transformation and continuous improvement efforts, to progress the Global Data organization to Agile & Product ways of working. She then made a career move to Lowe’s Companies, Inc. and led the strategy, portfolio, Governance, Awareness, and communications areas for cyber-security in technology. With her time at Lowe’s, she led the Women in Technology group and served with the Women Empowered Business Resource Group leadership team. These roles allowed her to use her passion to drive change and advocacy for women across the organization. She is currently serving as a Senior Director in IT Applications for Tyson Foods, Inc. Tiffany is an Author, Speaker and Advocate for women, who uses her strong connection with people to drive change and empowerment.
Charlee Brewer - Secretary
Born and raised in central Arkansas, Charlee’s appreciation for country life runs deep. Hard work and gratitude are family values that have continued to define her throughout her teaching career working with K-12, university and adult learners.
Charlee’s international studies and experience working for the Ministry of Education in Spain inspired her transition from education into the world of language interpretation in medical, government and business settings.
Charlee’s most recent role is leading enterprise language services for Tyson Foods to ensure a safe, inclusive environment for 140K employees speaking 70 languages globally. Additionally, she leads HR tech change management and communications strategy.
Charlee is passionate about employee experience, DEI and talent development, especially for the historically marginalized.
Crystal Wagner - Treasurer
Crystal Wagner is wonderful member of our community, who has been a lifelong resident of Northwest Arkansas. She is a loving and committed wife, mother of three amazing children, and enjoys playing with her two loyal dogs In her career, she has been contributing to the Walmart Aviation Department as an Aviation Specialist, where she displays remarkable skills by providing flight support, managing budgets, and handling technical support across the department. Her expertise and passion have helped to propel the department to new heights.
WIT NWA's Advisory Board
Sapna Ramachandran
Sapna Ramachandran
Sapna Ramachandran
Sapna is the Vice President of Talent Experience and Culture at Kitestring Technical Services. She is a transformational leader who comes with 14 years of multinational professional experience in talent acquisition and turning technical recruiting teams into success stories. During her career, Sapna has built a reputation for operational
Sapna is the Vice President of Talent Experience and Culture at Kitestring Technical Services. She is a transformational leader who comes with 14 years of multinational professional experience in talent acquisition and turning technical recruiting teams into success stories. During her career, Sapna has built a reputation for operational excellence, working with the highest level of integrity and a deep, passionate commitment towards company goals which includes creating a diverse and inclusive culture.
Sapna has lived in Northwest Arkansas for around 10 years and enjoys the diversity and culture of NWA. Having worked in retail, logistics and technology industries while living in the area, she has a keen interest in engaging and attracting potential talent to move to NWA.
Sapna is passionate about volunteering and making a difference in the community. Sapna serves on the board at the Greater Bentonville Chamber of Commerce, NWA Tech Fest, and Ra-Ve Cultural Foundation. Sapna also serves as an executive committee member of the NWA Tech Summit and Plan Bentonville Steering committee. Sapna is also honored with the Best Employee of the Year Award in NWA for Small Business in 2022.
Sapna believes that community growth is about building grassroots support, which is the basis for strong economic and cultural development. She is all about passion for cause and is excited about all the possible progress our community is going to see in the near future!
K.C. Dupps Tucker
Sapna Ramachandran
Sapna Ramachandran
K.C. Dupps Tucker is a founder and managing partner with the Law Group of Northwest Arkansas PLLC representing individuals and corporations in all phases of complex civil litigation—with a focus on business and employment matters.
Although she grew up in Northwest Arkansas, K.C. graduated from Colorado College in 1995 with B.A. in Politic
K.C. Dupps Tucker is a founder and managing partner with the Law Group of Northwest Arkansas PLLC representing individuals and corporations in all phases of complex civil litigation—with a focus on business and employment matters.
Although she grew up in Northwest Arkansas, K.C. graduated from Colorado College in 1995 with B.A. in Political Science and Theatre. Upon graduation, she worked for the Seattle Academy of Arts and Sciences as Alumni Director and Assistant Director of Development. I. In 2007, K.C. earned her Juris Doctorate from the University of Arkansas School of Law where she also holds her Master of Law degree in Agricultural Law from the University of Arkansas School of Law Graduate Program. While completing her LL.M., K.C. worked for the National Agricultural Law Center, and prior to joining her first firm, was chosen by the University of Arkansas Law faculty and Wal-Mart to serve as the first-ever Corporate Extern in the Wal-Mart Legal Department.
K.C. is admitted to practice in Tennessee state court, before the state and federal courts in Arkansas, and is admitted to practice law before the United States Courts of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit. K.C.’s practice involves representing entities that range from single-member LLCs to large corporations with more than 5,000 team members in all aspects of business matters. She has a Martindale-Hubbell rating of AV Preeminent, and she is a Platinum Client Champion, and is Lead Counsel Verified® in employment law by Thomson Reuters. Additionally, K.C. is a volunteer with Peace at Home Family Shelter and is Vice-Chair of the Board of Arkansas Children’s Hospital Northwest.
Andrea Shoppach
Sapna Ramachandran
Margarita Rivera
Andrea is the Vice President of RiskTech at Walmart, safeguarding the future with human-led, tech-powered, global solutions. A graduate from the University of Arkansas, she joined Walmart in 2002 as an entry-level Programmer in the replenishment area. During her career in technology, she reinvented herself several times by supporting doma
Andrea is the Vice President of RiskTech at Walmart, safeguarding the future with human-led, tech-powered, global solutions. A graduate from the University of Arkansas, she joined Walmart in 2002 as an entry-level Programmer in the replenishment area. During her career in technology, she reinvented herself several times by supporting domains in such as IT Security, International and US Compliance, Corporate Governance functions, and Customer Insights & Strategy. Andrea also serves on the Arkansas Research Alliance Board of Trustees and leads in the women’s small group ministry at Cross Church. Andrea’s focus in life is faith, family, fitness, and the Razorbacks.
Margarita Rivera
Margarita Rivera
Margarita Rivera
Margarita Rivera is a distinguished Executive and thought leader in the realm of Information, with over two decades of dedicated experience. Currently serving as the Senior Director of Information Security for Lowe's Corporation, a Fortune 50 company, Margarita's journey is a testament to her relentless pursuit of knowledge, excellence,
Margarita Rivera is a distinguished Executive and thought leader in the realm of Information, with over two decades of dedicated experience. Currently serving as the Senior Director of Information Security for Lowe's Corporation, a Fortune 50 company, Margarita's journey is a testament to her relentless pursuit of knowledge, excellence, and an unyielding commitment to fortifying digital landscapes against evolving threats.
Margarita's academic foundation is solid, boasting a Master's Degree in Information Systems from Harvard University and a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from Florida
International University. This educational duality equips her with a comprehensive understanding of both the technological intricacies and financial dimensions of business. Her expertise is further substantiated by a prestigious portfolio of certifications, including: Certified Chief Informa-on Security Officer (C-CISO), Certified Informa-on Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Certified in Risk and Informa-on Systems Control (CRISC), Certified Informa-on Systems Auditor (CISA), and Certified Informa-on Privacy Technologist (CIPT).
Margarita's leadership journey is distinguished by exceptional qualities. As a proven leader, she has built and led Information Security programs throughout her career, orchestrating high-performing teams and cultivating a culture of collaboration, transparency, and innovation within the organization. Embodying the principles of servant leadership, Margarita empowers her team members to excel, propelling security excellence throughout the corporate landscape. Beyond her professional pursuits, Margarita finds solace and joy in various activities. Her love for the outdoors is evident in her enjoyment of hiking and kayaking. Exploring new culinary and cultural experiences is another facet of her diverse interests, complemented by the simple pleasure of immersing herself in a captivating book.
Paige Francis
Margarita Rivera
Paige Francis
Paige Francis is an award-winning industry and higher education information technology (IT) expert who leads through listening and boasts over 15 years' experience of impactful leadership, strategic planning, and developing operational excellence, resulting in stellar user and customer service. Paige currently serves as the Chief Inform
Paige Francis is an award-winning industry and higher education information technology (IT) expert who leads through listening and boasts over 15 years' experience of impactful leadership, strategic planning, and developing operational excellence, resulting in stellar user and customer service. Paige currently serves as the Chief Information Officer for Art + Wellness Enterprises in Bentonville, AR.
WIT NWA Marketing
Sydney Johnson
Sydney, originally from Austin, Texas, moved to Fayetteville in 2020 to study at the University of Arkansas. She graduated from the U of A Honors program in 2023, driven by a strong passion for the community and its local businesses. Currently, she works as an Account Manager with TEKsystems in their Digital and Creative division, helpin
Sydney, originally from Austin, Texas, moved to Fayetteville in 2020 to study at the University of Arkansas. She graduated from the U of A Honors program in 2023, driven by a strong passion for the community and its local businesses. Currently, she works as an Account Manager with TEKsystems in their Digital and Creative division, helping clients tackle challenges and meet their business-technology objectives. Sydney aims to empower girls who feel intimidated by the tech industry, encouraging them to confidently claim their space and recognize their value. Outside of work, she is a self-proclaimed food and coffee lover, the author of The College Girl's Guide to Fayetteville, AR, an aspiring world traveler, and an avid reader.
WIT NWA's Expansion
Tara Kendrick
Tara Kendrick was born and raised in a small town in Southern Virginia. She recently relocated to the Northwest Arkansas area, where she currently resides in Bentonville, AR. Tara graduated with a Business Management degree from Virginia Tech, specializing in Consulting and Analysis. She has spent her entire career in technology, holding
Tara Kendrick was born and raised in a small town in Southern Virginia. She recently relocated to the Northwest Arkansas area, where she currently resides in Bentonville, AR. Tara graduated with a Business Management degree from Virginia Tech, specializing in Consulting and Analysis. She has spent her entire career in technology, holding various roles across multiple industries. Tara is currently serving as AVP, Agile Delivery for Live Oak Bank, a digital, cloud-based bank focusing on serving small business owners. She plans to use her extensive experience in program and project management to develop strategies that will expand the WIT organization into new areas, continuing to drive change and empower women and girls across America. Outside of work, you will find Tara trying new recipes in the kitchen, going on long walks (or playing fetch) with her dog, June, reading all the Kindle Unlimited books, spending time with friends and family, and empowering women through fitness as a Pure Barre instructor.
WIT NWA's Events & Logistics Committee
Alaina Pattillo - Events & Logistics Lead
Alaina Pattillo - Events & Logistics Lead
Alaina Pattillo - Events & Logistics Lead
Alaina moved to NWA in the fall of 2020 from NJ. She is a graduate of Towson University in Maryland, with a BS in Mass Communication. Alaina works for Plug and Play where she is the Program Manager; putting on expos and innovation days for corporate partners. Her passion for event logistics started young, planning parties for her stuffed
Alaina moved to NWA in the fall of 2020 from NJ. She is a graduate of Towson University in Maryland, with a BS in Mass Communication. Alaina works for Plug and Play where she is the Program Manager; putting on expos and innovation days for corporate partners. Her passion for event logistics started young, planning parties for her stuffed animals, and has only grown over the last 15+ years of her career.
When she isn’t planning events, she can be found with her husband, 2 girls and 2 dogs, out and about!
Heather Freeland - Events & Logistics
Alaina Pattillo - Events & Logistics Lead
Alaina Pattillo - Events & Logistics Lead
Heather comes to us from the medical field, having experience in coordinating and supporting leaders at Washington Regional Medical Center in Fayetteville and Medical Associates of Northwest Arkansas. Heather’s strong administrative background, detail orientation and people-first approach will make her a valuable addition Tyson.
Outside
Heather comes to us from the medical field, having experience in coordinating and supporting leaders at Washington Regional Medical Center in Fayetteville and Medical Associates of Northwest Arkansas. Heather’s strong administrative background, detail orientation and people-first approach will make her a valuable addition Tyson.
Outside of work, Heather is busy raising her three sons, Marcus, Jayden and Bryce. They spend time enjoying the outdoors as the boys are involved in a number of sports (baseball, football, wrestling, basketball and track and field). When they are not at games or practices, they like to hit the trails, go fishing or watching a Razorback game.
Erica Rivas - Events & Logistics
Erica Rivas - Events & Logistics
Erica Rivas - Events & Logistics
Erica Rivas is a dedicated professional who finds true joy in bringing ideas to life and creating experiences that connect people. With a background in project coordination, event management, and digital marketing, she has been grateful for the chance to watch events evolve from early planning to meaningful moments that bring people tog
Erica Rivas is a dedicated professional who finds true joy in bringing ideas to life and creating experiences that connect people. With a background in project coordination, event management, and digital marketing, she has been grateful for the chance to watch events evolve from early planning to meaningful moments that bring people together. No matter the event size, seeing everything come together and witnessing stakeholders’ reactions humbles and inspires her.
Throughout her career, she's had the privilege to work with diverse teams, always focusing on enhancing processes, fostering collaboration, and ensuring every detail aligns with the event’s purpose. She believes that each project is an opportunity to create lasting memories and make a positive impact, and she's honored to contribute to causes that strengthen communities.
Outside of work, she enjoys supporting local events, exploring creative projects, and spending quality time with my family and dogs. Erica values being part of initiatives that bring people closer together, which is something she carries with her in both her personal and professional life.
Johanna Diaz - Photographer
Erica Rivas - Events & Logistics
Erica Rivas - Events & Logistics
Johanna moved to NWA more than 27 years ago, and has lived in Springdale and calls it her hometown. Graduated from Springdale High School and attended NWACC. As an executive assistant at an IT company, she has learned an extravagant amount of IT; from simple technical troubleshooting to cybersecurity. All very useful information not onl
Johanna moved to NWA more than 27 years ago, and has lived in Springdale and calls it her hometown. Graduated from Springdale High School and attended NWACC. As an executive assistant at an IT company, she has learned an extravagant amount of IT; from simple technical troubleshooting to cybersecurity. All very useful information not only in the professional industry, but outside of work as well. Johanna likes to be involved in her community and enjoys volunteering and helping others. She loves spending time with her husband and son, family and friends.
WIT NWA's Grants & Sponsorships
Teresa Mills
Teresa has been with Tyson for 1.5 years in the Technology Learning Management Organization. Previous to Tyson, she was in healthcare, focused on fundraising (including grant writing) in public health and working with families in need of senior living. She has more than 20 years of experience in fundraising and coalition building and wi
Teresa has been with Tyson for 1.5 years in the Technology Learning Management Organization. Previous to Tyson, she was in healthcare, focused on fundraising (including grant writing) in public health and working with families in need of senior living. She has more than 20 years of experience in fundraising and coalition building and will leverage those skills to help grow NWA WIT and the footprint.
WIT NWA's Certification & Training
Kati Moore
Kati has been in the technology industry for 12 years. Her career has moved her all over the country, however, she is happy to raise her family in Fayetteville and call Northwest Arkansas home. She is married and raising 3 children in which she has become a master at multitasking. She has a huge passion for this area and want to see the
Kati has been in the technology industry for 12 years. Her career has moved her all over the country, however, she is happy to raise her family in Fayetteville and call Northwest Arkansas home. She is married and raising 3 children in which she has become a master at multitasking. She has a huge passion for this area and want to see the success of not only the technology industry here but more importantly her fellow female colleagues.
WIT NWA's Annual Conferences
Jordan Franklin
Jordan Franklin, originally hailing from the picturesque state of Arkansas, is an accomplished graduate of Hendrix College. Currently residing in the vibrant city of Fayetteville, Arkansas, she proudly holds the position of Co-CEO at Stratice, LLC, a distinguished Women Owned Concierge IT Staffing Firm.
With over a decade of experience as
Jordan Franklin, originally hailing from the picturesque state of Arkansas, is an accomplished graduate of Hendrix College. Currently residing in the vibrant city of Fayetteville, Arkansas, she proudly holds the position of Co-CEO at Stratice, LLC, a distinguished Women Owned Concierge IT Staffing Firm.
With over a decade of experience as a disruptor in the IT recruitment landscape, Jordan possesses an unwavering passion for optimizing operational processes. Under her dynamic leadership, Stratice, LLC has achieved remarkable milestones, securing a coveted spot on Inc. 5000's list of Fastest Growing Private Companies in the US for three consecutive years. Additionally, it earned recognition as the 66th fastest-growing company in the Americas, a testament to Jordan's exceptional leadership skills, as acknowledged by the Financial Times.
Her dedication to the field of staffing has earned her a place among the 15 most influential people in staffing, an honor conferred by the esteemed World Staffing Association for three consecutive years. In 2022, Jordan received accolades from Arkansas Business, being named one of their "40 Under 40," and was nominated for the prestigious CEO of the Year award in both 2022 and 2023.
On a personal note, Jordan is a proud parent to twins, aged nine, and a five-year-old, exemplifying her remarkable ability to balance a successful career with family life. Beyond her professional and familial commitments, Jordan actively participates in community organizations such as EforAll, Dress for Success, and the Red Shoe Soiree. She also nurtures a deep passion for the arts, particularly in the form of pottery.
Jordan's commitment extends beyond her career and hobbies; she is a fervent advocate for empowering women through networking and leveraging alliances to enhance their professional growth. Her belief in the adage, "It's all about who you know," has propelled her own success and serves as an inspiring message to others.
Jordan's latest venture is Gumption, a groundbreaking platform that seamlessly merges her fervor for streamlining the full circle of activities involved in hiring any style of employee seamlessly, quickly, and correctly. Getting the right people in the right seats!
WIT NWA's Programs
Maria Smith
Maria grew up in the greater metro area of Kansas City, MO. She currently resides in Rogers, AR with her husband. Maria is known for her strong leadership skills, ability to build relationships, and dedication to be a change agent and advocate for women in the workplace. She is known for taking initiative and has a proven track reco
Maria grew up in the greater metro area of Kansas City, MO. She currently resides in Rogers, AR with her husband. Maria is known for her strong leadership skills, ability to build relationships, and dedication to be a change agent and advocate for women in the workplace. She is known for taking initiative and has a proven track record in Information Technology. Maria serves as a Director in Engineering & Technology for J.B. Hunt Transport, Inc.
Girls+ in Tech
Inayat Kang
Snigdha Thumma
Snigdha Thumma
Inayat is a recent graduate of Texas A&M University, holding a bachelor's degree in Industrial and Systems Engineering. She has seamlessly transitioned from her role as a year-round intern at Tyson Foods to her current role as an IT analyst. Since relocating to the NWA area in January 2024, she has been actively enhancing team member
Inayat is a recent graduate of Texas A&M University, holding a bachelor's degree in Industrial and Systems Engineering. She has seamlessly transitioned from her role as a year-round intern at Tyson Foods to her current role as an IT analyst. Since relocating to the NWA area in January 2024, she has been actively enhancing team member knowledge in process mapping and documentation through facilitating monthly workshops. With a solid foundation in continuous improvement, Inayat is driven by a passion for learning and professional growth. Beyond her career pursuits, she finds joy in outdoor activities such as hiking and mountain biking, as well as sports like pickleball and tennis.
Snigdha Thumma
Snigdha Thumma
Snigdha Thumma
Snigdha is a Louisiana native, now living in Fayetteville, AR and working as a Product/Program Manager in Emerging Technology at Tyson Foods.
Interestingly, she started with a Biochemistry degree and dreams of becoming a doctor, but a biotechnology lab experience at LSU changed everything. Tech wasn't her first choice, but seeing its
Snigdha is a Louisiana native, now living in Fayetteville, AR and working as a Product/Program Manager in Emerging Technology at Tyson Foods.
Interestingly, she started with a Biochemistry degree and dreams of becoming a doctor, but a biotechnology lab experience at LSU changed everything. Tech wasn't her first choice, but seeing its efficiency blew her mind. It was eye-opening to see work that would normally take 24-60 hours in a chem lab completed in only a few of hours in the biotech lab. It was then that she realized the immense potential in this field. So, she pursued a Computer Science masters at LSU. She started at Tyson as an intern and has been working full time in the Emerging Tech team for the past 3 years. She is passionate about immersing herself in the latest cutting-edge technologies that not only enhance efficiency but also significantly improve the quality of people's lives. She is eager to share her experiences and reveal the boundless potential of technology to young girls, igniting their early passion for tech and nurturing the leaders of tomorrow. Beyond work, you'll find her in her amazing veggie garden, whipping up culinary creations, and passionately debating LSU football's greatness.
Annmarie Tyson
Annmarie Tyson
Annmarie Tyson
Annmarie was born and raised in St. Louis, MO and stayed in Missouri for college, attending Missouri University of Science and Technology where she earned a Masters in Technical Communication. Annmarie started as a intern for Tyson Foods in 2021 and after school she moved to NWA in 2023 to work full-time for Tyson Foods in their IT Pr
Annmarie was born and raised in St. Louis, MO and stayed in Missouri for college, attending Missouri University of Science and Technology where she earned a Masters in Technical Communication. Annmarie started as a intern for Tyson Foods in 2021 and after school she moved to NWA in 2023 to work full-time for Tyson Foods in their IT Project Management Office where she focuses on change management and content creation. She's driven by producing quality work and being a continuous learner. In her free time Annmarie enjoys taking pictures, spending time with her family, writing and reading.
Annie Alvarez
Annmarie Tyson
Annmarie Tyson
Annie was raised in NWA and currently resides in Pea Ridge, AR with her husband and children. She is an Accounting Manager who also aids to drive automation initiatives in her area with Tyson Foods. She started her career in technology as a high school intern for Tyson Foods, Inc. in IT Human Resources. Annie holds a bachelor’s from th
Annie was raised in NWA and currently resides in Pea Ridge, AR with her husband and children. She is an Accounting Manager who also aids to drive automation initiatives in her area with Tyson Foods. She started her career in technology as a high school intern for Tyson Foods, Inc. in IT Human Resources. Annie holds a bachelor’s from the Walton College in Information Systems. She has led a department through the implementation of a new Commodities Risk Trading System and has worked with new technology to automate a payment process. Annie has a passion to be a leader for young girls and enkindle their knowledge of the powerful technology can be. In her free time, Annie enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and going on walks.
WIT NWA's Membership & Alliances
Lori McCleskey
Lori McCleskey
Lori McCleskey
Lori McCleskey grew up in beautiful Colorado and currently resides in Rogers, Arkansas with her husband and 2 children. She started in technology as a software engineer at Sprint PCS and then has had a 21-year career within Walmart Technology supporting many different business areas including Health & Wellness, Store Systems, Financ
Lori McCleskey grew up in beautiful Colorado and currently resides in Rogers, Arkansas with her husband and 2 children. She started in technology as a software engineer at Sprint PCS and then has had a 21-year career within Walmart Technology supporting many different business areas including Health & Wellness, Store Systems, Finance, Merchandising and Distribution Systems as a leader with either an Engineering or Technical Program Management teams. Within her time at Walmart, she has helped with leading different Women in Tech organizations and was the Founder of SWOT (Sam’s Women of Tech). She has a passion for both helping the next generation of ladies learn about the possibilities of roles within tech, as well as growing and showcasing the women already in the industry.
Sara Wade
Lori McCleskey
Lori McCleskey
Sara is originally from Michigan but has called Northwest Arkansas home for the last 11 years. Currently she is a senior Recruiter at J.B. Hunt supporting their Engineering and Technology teams. Her career began in Retail Management, later transitioning into the realm of recruitment. With over 8 years of experience in Technology Recru
Sara is originally from Michigan but has called Northwest Arkansas home for the last 11 years. Currently she is a senior Recruiter at J.B. Hunt supporting their Engineering and Technology teams. Her career began in Retail Management, later transitioning into the realm of recruitment. With over 8 years of experience in Technology Recruiting, her expertise spans both staffing agency and corporate Talent Acquisition. She has a deep passion for technology, striving to understand the complexities of the roles she recruits for, all while advocating for equal opportunities for women at the table.
Beyond her professional life, she is happily married to a technologist and is a proud mother of three children aged 10, 13, and 15. Her family is completed by their beloved pets - one dog and two cats. An avid reader, she takes joy in cheering on her children at soccer games, mountain biking races, and robotics competitions. She is thrilled to be involved with Women in Tech Northwest Arkansas, dedicated to ensuring her daughter has the same opportunities as her sons, and committed to raising her sons to be allies of women!
Gabby Biswell
Sean Shasteen- Allyship & Advocacy
Sean Shasteen- Allyship & Advocacy
Gabby is a lifelong resident of Northwest Arkansas, living just south of Fayetteville. With a foundation in agriculture and a degree in Computer Science and Agricultural Technology, she has spent the last five years enhancing HR IT processes at Tyson and is now embracing a new challenge at Mercy IT.
Committed to promoting inclusivity
Gabby is a lifelong resident of Northwest Arkansas, living just south of Fayetteville. With a foundation in agriculture and a degree in Computer Science and Agricultural Technology, she has spent the last five years enhancing HR IT processes at Tyson and is now embracing a new challenge at Mercy IT.
Committed to promoting inclusivity and diversity, Gabby is actively involved in local Pride organizations. In her free time, Gabby relishes the outdoors, goes camping, and dives into books. She cherishes moments spent with her family, which includes her husband, a large dog, a small cat, and a close-knit circle of loved ones she considers her found family.
Her passion for inclusion and equity in the tech industry drives her efforts to ensure that women in IT feel empowered and valued, reflecting her dedication to creating supportive and inclusive environments.
Sean Shasteen- Allyship & Advocacy
Sean Shasteen- Allyship & Advocacy
Sean Shasteen- Allyship & Advocacy
Meet Sean, a seasoned Technology Leader and Management Consultant with a focus on Business Applications. His passion lies in supporting and mentoring new managers navigating the shift from individual contributor roles. Born in Texas, his family returned to Rogers when he was 9, and he is proud to be from Northwest Arkansas. Sean brings a
Meet Sean, a seasoned Technology Leader and Management Consultant with a focus on Business Applications. His passion lies in supporting and mentoring new managers navigating the shift from individual contributor roles. Born in Texas, his family returned to Rogers when he was 9, and he is proud to be from Northwest Arkansas. Sean brings a wealth of experience across diverse sectors, including Pharmaceutical, Government, Financial, Healthcare, Food & Beverage, Retail, Manufacturing, and Small Business. Beyond his professional life, Sean shares his home with his girlfriend, her daughter, 4 dogs, and 3 and a half cats. His interests include sailing, scuba diving, camping, and working on cars — hobbies that provide balance and inspiration. Sean looks forward to connecting with like-minded individuals and supporting the growth and success of Women in Technology. Committed to fostering true equality in the tech world, he looks forward to collaborating with allies and advocates to create an inclusive environment for all.
WIT NWA's Community Outreach & Education
Evelyn Williams
Swathi Karthikeyan
Swathi Karthikeyan
Evelyn was born in southern California and then moved to El Paso, Texas when she was 12 years old to be closer to family in Mexico. Evelyn graduated from New Mexico State University with her degree in Information Systems before landing her job at Tyson Foods. She now lives in Rogers, Arkansas with her husband, kids, and fur babies (2 d
Evelyn was born in southern California and then moved to El Paso, Texas when she was 12 years old to be closer to family in Mexico. Evelyn graduated from New Mexico State University with her degree in Information Systems before landing her job at Tyson Foods. She now lives in Rogers, Arkansas with her husband, kids, and fur babies (2 dogs and 1 cat). She has been at Tyson now for over 10 years and is currently a systems analyst with experience in enterprise implementations and cross functional collaboration. She is currently working on her Masters in Divinity in Theological Studies from Regent University hoping to be a pillar for Women in ministry. Outside of work and family, Evelyn enjoys competing in ballroom, Latin, and swing dance with her husband, photography, traveling, crafts (crochet and sewing) and of course helping those in her community through outreach.
Swathi Karthikeyan
Swathi Karthikeyan
Swathi Karthikeyan
Swathi Karthikeyan is a seasoned cybersecurity leader with over a decade of experience at Lowe's, currently serving as Senior Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) Manager at Tyson Foods. With a strong commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in the tech industry, she has led mentoring circle program and several community outreach
Swathi Karthikeyan is a seasoned cybersecurity leader with over a decade of experience at Lowe's, currently serving as Senior Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) Manager at Tyson Foods. With a strong commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in the tech industry, she has led mentoring circle program and several community outreach programs during her tenure at Lowe's. Outside of work, Swathi enjoys gardening and cherishes time with her husband of 16 years and their 15-year-old daughter. She is thrilled to contribute her expertise to the Women in Tech Northwest Arkansas group, empowering women in their tech careers.
WIT NWA's Analytics & Reporting
Sishir Doddi
Sishir Yerra Doddi is a Senior Governance Analyst at Tyson Foods. He came to the United States in 2014 to pursue higher education. Sishir earned his Bachelor of Science in Finance, and his data manipulation experience at Bloomberg introduced him to the Tech world and motivated him to complete his Master's in Quantitative Finance. He enjo
Sishir Yerra Doddi is a Senior Governance Analyst at Tyson Foods. He came to the United States in 2014 to pursue higher education. Sishir earned his Bachelor of Science in Finance, and his data manipulation experience at Bloomberg introduced him to the Tech world and motivated him to complete his Master's in Quantitative Finance. He enjoys grilling, swimming, and traveling and loves to meet new people. He is passionate about emerging technology, machine learning, and philanthropy. He is excited to provide tech support and contribute to the growth of Women in Technology in NWA.
WIT NWA's Designer
Camryn Swedick
Camryn Swedick is an Information Security Analyst at Lowe’s, handling graphic design and visual branding strategy for the information security department. Having relocated several times along the East Coast, Camryn has firmly settled in Charlotte, NC, aiming to advance her career within the tech industry.
Boasting a Strategic Communicati
Camryn Swedick is an Information Security Analyst at Lowe’s, handling graphic design and visual branding strategy for the information security department. Having relocated several times along the East Coast, Camryn has firmly settled in Charlotte, NC, aiming to advance her career within the tech industry.
Boasting a Strategic Communications degree from Liberty University and a certificate in Cybersecurity from UNC Charlotte, she has a passion for both technology and the arts and is consistently discovering creative ways to bridge the gap between the two areas.
To feed her passion for continuous education, she's also actively pursuing further certifications and higher education in both design and technology.
Beyond her professional and educational endeavors, Camryn is a big fan of the arts, particularly film. She finds peace in creative expression and has a deep passion for people and leadership. She is also often found experimenting with baking, listening to podcasts, and spending time with her two cats.