Welcome back to our Women in Tech blog series, where we’re highlighting notable and accomplished women in the technology sector.
This interview with Amy Wendel, Global Head of Corporate Social Responsibility at LogMeIn, dives into working in corporate social responsibility (CSR) in the tech space.
1. Please describe yourself in three words.
To put it simply, I’d say that I am caring, driven and loyal.
2. What do you find most interesting about the technology field in which you work?
I find the constant change and product innovation fascinating. There is never a dull moment in SaaS, and the fast-paced environment has taught me adaptability and resilience.
Working in corporate social responsibility (CSR) within the tech space has been especially exciting. It presents its own unique opportunities, such as the current focus of our CSR program to elevate STEM education in our communities. Whether you are looking at Google, Microsoft, or LogMeIn’s CSR programs, there is a large focus on exposing children and young adults to STEM education and careers, which I believe will have an exciting and long-lasting impact in the tech space. We are already starting to see these initiatives bear fruit and make a difference when it comes to diversity in the workplace.
3. How do you find work-life balance, or what do you enjoy outside of work?
Work-life balance has become more of a work-life integration for me. Leading CSR for a global company such as LogMeIn means being available for our offices in Bangalore, Sydney, and Europe while working at our HQ in Boston. And while I am able to find time for myself, my role is unique in that it also happens to be what I am most passionate about! There is little delineation between what I do and who I am. During the work week, you can find me volunteering with my fellow LogMeIn employees at Habitat for Humanity, St. Francis House, or Cradles to Crayons (to name just a few of our Boston partners) and in my personal time, you will find me volunteering as well. In fact, I am going to Bali for Christmas and I was able to connect with an orphanage that needs help with meals and groceries while I am in-country. I am excited to break away from sightseeing and get back to what I know and love most while I’m there—giving back.
Outside of work and philanthropy, however, I enjoy yoga, exploring museums, traveling, and cooking.
4. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced in your career and how did you overcome it?
I got my bachelor’s degree in art history and my master’s degree in museum studies, so it was by happenstance that I fell into the tech space. I developed my career by navigating mergers and acquisitions in operations and marketing roles, but giving back was always at my core. In fact, I founded a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization almost a decade ago that supports children and schools in East Africa. When I entered into a CSR role full-time after years of working on CSR “on the side,” it felt like a natural fit. I quickly began soaking up new information, learning new skills, and developing myself as fast as I could in order to tackle global CSR.
Living some of LogMeIn’s values of “engaging fearlessly” and “advancing confidently” has also stayed top of mind as I’ve spent the last year networking, creating meaningful partnerships, and taking every opportunity to ramp up my business acumen. It’s amazing how quickly you can progress and get up to speed in a fast-paced industry when you put your head down, focus, and get to work. Within just ten months in the job full-time, the work and our program has already been recognized by organizations like the 100 Top CSR Influencers via Assent Compliance, and the Mahatma Awards for Social Good. I hope that is a testament to all of the career changers and women that want to pursue different passions mid-career. Tech moves fast, but you can move fast within it and excel.
5. Are there enough opportunities for women in tech? How would you assess the progress women have made in the tech industry?
I don’t think there are enough opportunities for women in tech, but I do see the needle moving. Just this year, I saw two amazing women added to LogMeIn’s Board of Directors, and every day I see women being promoted into existing and new roles in the industry. While there is a lot of work that still needs to be done, I believe that we are moving in the right direction.
6. What are some things you think should be addressed on macro, peer, and educational levels to encourage women to feel empowered in the tech industry?
I would encourage women to get involved in a women’s network. These can act as a wonderful resource and a great support group, and if there isn’t one at your workplace or in your community, think about starting one. Continually read, listen to podcasts, and learn and challenge yourself. That is key.
7. Please provide a WIT call to action.
I think that the best thing you can do right now is to pay it forward and mentor a young girl or woman. There are so many opportunities to give your time and support girls, whether it’s being a Big Sister, offering to host Girls Who Code at your office, talking to girls about careers in tech, or offering a job shadow opportunity at your company.
Support and stand up for your tribe. And don’t give up. Ever.