Q&A with Executive Women in Technology Executive Forum Member Staci Cross

SC: My career in technology was accidental. I put myself through college by working in the technology department of a manufacturing company. I have worked in a variety of industries, but always in technology. I find technology challenging and rewarding. I have never had the desire to work in any other field.

Q: Who were your role models/mentors? 

SC: My first mentor was my mother. She was a single mom, raising three kids, while working as a paralegal and getting a law degree at night.  She loved working and had a really great work ethic. I grew up watching my mom juggle the demands of motherhood and work.

Throughout my career, I have had a variety of men and women as role models. The most influential mentor continues to be my best friend, who is a very successful executive. She is different from me in that she excels at politics and is comfortable with ambiguity. I have improved in these areas thanks to years of coaching from her.

Q: What do you accredit your success to? 

SC: I have a unique skill set for my industry. I have strong people and communication skills and I am surrounded by people with strong technical skills. I often volunteer to do things they don’t want to, which makes them value and appreciate me. I built my career by filling a void and leveraging my strengths.

Q: What are some strategies you use to maintain a healthy work/life balance? 

SC: First, I schedule my time. Time for myself and my family has to be as important as work.  Second, I remind myself that it’s just a job and there is no such thing as loyalty anymore. Third,  “balance” is not a steady state, but more like a tightrope walker who bobs back and forth to maintain balance. If I need to spend more time at work now, I spend more time at home later. Finally, I don’t allow myself to feel guilty. Women often feel guilty, which is not productive or beneficial. Instead, I reframe it. I ask for help, knowing I am giving someone else an opportunity to make a difference, whether it is a project at work, caring for my children, or taking time for myself.

Q: What has been one of your biggest challenges as a businesswoman? 

SC: Like many women, I suffered from the Imposter Syndrome. I have always been in male-dominated environments. Over the years, I have learned to embrace being female and to value my uniqueness. I have confidence from years of experience and I see being a female in a male-dominated world as an advantage. I often bring skills and perspectives that balance those of the men around me. I’ve also learned to work the politics in order to be included. I am now recognized for my confidence and valued for my expertise. There are still times when the Imposter Syndrome sneaks up on me, but I remind myself that I have earned my seat at the table. I am smart and can do anything I set my mind to.

Q: How has being a part of the Knight Foundation funded Women in Technology Forum benefitted you, and how could an Executive Forum benefit other women? 

SC: The leadership classes offered through TCI were some of the best I’ve ever attended. The women were impressive, the presentations effective, and the content relevant. I would really encourage other women to participate if they are given the opportunity.

SC: It is incredibly beneficial to be able to seek council from women who have been on a similar journey.  They quickly understand the context of my challenges, are able to provide relevant insights, and often have a different point of view.