2019 GHC Scholar Spotlight: Marylyn Harris
Marylyn Harris served in the army for more than 10 years, and upon returning home noticed a gap in resources for women veterans transitioning back into civilian life. Marylyn took it upon herself to fill this gap, and as a result, has spent the last 10 years supporting over 25 thousand female veterans with free resources and education in business building and entrepreneurship. In hopes of expanding her horizons and joining the global tech conversation, Marylyn enrolled in boot camp at Bibliotech in San Antonio, Texas.
“I wanted to meet ‘Techies’ and learn IT Networking, IT Security and about the Cloud. I wanted to see if tech was a ‘good fit’ for me and other Women Veterans. I found out that IT IS!”
Marylyn received a scholarship to attend GHC in 2019. She describes her experience of the event as “monumental,” providing her opportunities to apply for jobs and internships, as well as to connect with fellow women technologists in a meaningful way.
“I attended GHC 2019 the entire day and until the last bus left. I had a thoroughly exhilarating, educational, exhausting experience that I will always be grateful for.”
Upon returning from GHC, Marylyn expanded her advocacy efforts supporting women by partnering with Microsoft to create the Women Veterans Tech Careers & Tech Business Initiative. The group hosts monthly meetings in Houston to empower and educate women veterans to pursue opportunities in tech and tech entrepreneurship.
Marylyn encourages other women to follow their curiosity for technology and stay open-minded. She believes in the power of connecting with other women to learn about their unique paths, utilizing an event like GHC as the catalyst.
“GHC is more than you can ever imagine. JUST GO! Make the most of the opportunity when you are there, and you will find “pearls” in the people, ongoing processes and program.”
Did you know that AnitaB.org has a #GHC20 scholarship made just for women from alternative tech programs like boot camps and coding schools? To be notified when our 2021 Scholarships open, please fill out this interest form!
