Netrality’s theme for Women’s History Month was Empowerment.
Women and men empowering women.
Partnering with them.
Supporting them.
Pulling up a chair “at the table”.
Paving the way for generations to come.
This month it was our honor to spotlight 5 phenomenal women of Netrality. Each woman in our Spotlight Series was asked to respond to a question. It is our honor to share their responses with you.
Skie Pearson, Data Center Technician, Kansas City | Data Center Operations
What made you want to pursue a career in Data Center Operations? What advice would you share with young women who want to follow in your footprints?
“I chose Data Center Operations because I love the variety of day-to-day work and endless opportunities due to the ever-evolving world of technology. I would remind all young women that they can achieve whatever they choose through persistence and force of will. This is a male-dominated industry, but we have the power to change it not only for ourselves but for future generations of women in the tech space.”
Christina Jones, Executive Assistant | Sales and Marketing
What made you choose a career as an Executive Assistant? As most Executive Assistants know, you must wear many different hats. How do you find balance in your life?
“Becoming an Executive Assistant felt like an extension of who I was in my personal life. My friends and family describe me as a nurturer and a (somewhat neurotic!) planner. My career choice was a natural next step. Watching others succeed and thrive, juggling many proverbial balls, planning, and organizing while being challenged to learn and grow gives me great satisfaction. Finding balance is a cumulation of many factors: an incredible boss, a dedicated team, and a very supportive husband and family who values the work I do. After almost 15 years in my career, I have never felt more supported and appreciated!”
Gaddiella Odonkor, Senior Analyst |Accounts Receivable
What woman has inspired, been the most influential in your life and why?
“My mother, Mary, is my inspiration. She grew up in Ghana, West Africa, the oldest of 6 siblings coming to the U.S. at the age of 21 with my father to start a new life. She is a strong, selfless, and natural caregiver who always puts others before herself. My mother has overcome many obstacles and raised 3 children. She has taught me that through hard work and perseverance I can achieve whatever I would like in life. I would not be the person I am today without her love, loyalty, and support.
Erin Valadijia, Property Manager, Kansas City | Property Management
How have you grown in your position at Netrality? What, or who specifically has empowered you on your journey?
“Netrality has given me the opportunity to thrive and build strong, collaborative relationships with my fellow colleagues. What makes Netrality unique, is that every employee has a chance to share their ideas with leadership teams, be heard, and valued. My General Manager, Angela O’Hanlon has provided a conducive learning environment providing feedback to allow me to grow in my position. I’m excited to start my new position as Property Manager and look forward to the new challenges this position brings.”
Kristina Barone, People Operations Specialist | People Operations
The People Operations Dept is the first stop for all potential employees. What aspect of Netrality’s culture inspired you to join the team? What advice would you give women in your role to help shape and drive diversity?
“I was drawn to Netrality by the number of women in leadership roles and their approachability. As women, we know what it’s like to be overlooked or excluded from opportunities in the workplace. The advice I would give women within the People Operations field is simple and what I follow today. We are responsible for leading by example, creating and fostering diversity and equity, and inclusion initiatives, enabling open dialogue so all voices are heard, recognized, and valued.”