The 2020 Women Leaders in Technology: Carrie Steyer

Steyer was already planning on joining—but, after hearing that, she made a point of joining. After the class, Jazzy looked up at her and said, 'Huh, Mama, you're pretty good at this. Maybe you should do this for a living!' 

"Two things from that story hit me: First, that the other little girl believed that STEM was all about her dad and men. Second that, because I was there in the room, Jazzy saw different possibilities for herself and for others—she saw that a woman can do this, too," Steyer says. "We need everyone to know that they can have a career in technology."

Has she experienced unique challenges being a woman consultant in the technology field? Yes, of course, she says. 

"Being where I am now as a leader, I'm in a place where it's my responsibility to help take down those barriers for others who face them, regardless of their gender or any other demographic that might make technology feel like a less accessible space," Steyer says. "Knowing that the challenges continue to exist is something that has inspired me to do more, rather than sit back and let that be a reality."

Today, Steyer is General Manager, Slalom Chicago and a leader in the fields of artificial intelligence, analytics, information management, and strategy alignment with over 25 years of experience. She is known for helping clients successfully address infrastructure challenges, develop strategies for implementation, and promote business development. 

"I love solving problems, right? Technology is one critical piece of the puzzle to almost any problem," she says. "But you also need to layer in data, people, and processes when you're looking at that puzzle. Once you have those four things together, you can create a solution to any challenge that's out there."

This year has certainly been a difficult one and contains many uncertainties and challenges ahead, Steyer says.

 "I look forward to how Slalom will help lead in local communities and continue to help clients navigate complex challenges," Steyer says. "I'm also anchoring back on Slalom's vision for everyone to love their work, their life, and their future. That's where I'm spending my time as a leader—focusing on how to make that possible for Slalom and our clients. I help folks open doors that they didn't think were available to them."

What would you consider your greatest personal or professional achievement?

Steyer: "My favorite milestones are when I see people who I have helped developed do amazing things. There's so much joy when you see someone you've supported reach their personal goals, or be celebrated for their leadership, or meet achievements that they never thought they would meet."