Women in Tech Tampa Bay: Lauren Prager, VP of Community Engagement at Synapse
In celebration of International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, Embarc Collective is excited to introduce you to Women in Tech Tampa Bay — a content series profiling women who are building at Embarc Collective and how they’ve built their careers.
Meet more women tech founders and investors across the state of Florida here.
Meet Lauren Prager, VP of Community Engagement at Synapse.
What pivotal points in your career led to your current role?
Leaning into a volunteer opportunity allowed me to launch a new career in a new industry, new town and new community. I volunteered to help curate the content for the inaugural Synapse Summit in 2018, leveraging previous experience in building content and conferences for audiences as large as 20,000 people. I loved the community I discovered and was so inspired that my 5–10 hours of volunteer time quickly became 40+ hours per week. I met so many thought leaders, entrepreneurs, investors and community builders. In my role, I get to help them “find what they need, and share what they’ve created” and in helping them succeed I’ve found my own rewarding experiences.
What do you wish you had known earlier in your career?
The virtue of getting things done sequentially, not simultaneously. This especially is how working parents fit it all in. What I’ve always known and hope others will do, too, is to ask questions. If you’re not sure, the worst thing you can do is fake it. Asking questions enables you to glean information you may not have even known to ask for — — something you can’t do when you shy away from engaging someone and rely on a Google search. Chances are that someone else also has the same question, and the person you’re speaking with will appreciate your honesty to make sure his or her point is clear. Asking questions gives others the space to share their knowledge and passion, and you get a valuable opportunity to create a relationship as a result.
What communities, networks, or resources have helped you build in your career?
Synapse is connecting Florida’s innovation community. Through my role, I’ve been fortunate to meet ecosystem leaders, business and government leaders at every stage, who want to be a part of the movement we’re building.
What is one piece of tactical advice that you would give to another woman considering your career path?
Realize the power in empowering others. This doesn’t only apply to women; this is universal. Creating space for others to shine, helping them to build their confidence and use their voice in new and impactful ways, is a superpower. This in turn gives you the chance to learn from others, strengthen different operational and leadership skills, and contribute to a strong team.
Connect with Lauren and follow Synapse.
Want to stay up to date on the latest startup news, events, and resources? Get the Weekly Collective delivered directly to your inbox by subscribing here.
