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Dreams & Determination

The Success Story of a Black Woman in Tech

By Cydney McMillonPublished 3 years ago 4 min read
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I have always had a passion for technology since a young age. Since I was a child, I have been intrigued by the capabilities, conveniences, and advancements of technology and technical systems. My 13 year journey in the tech industry has been full of learning, growth, and fulfillment. Starting in tech as a Technical Assistant at Michigan State University, I furthered my education, read, learned and researched daily to advance my technical skills. Taking courses, reading books and practicing self-development in addition to obtaining my Master’s degree in Instructional Technology helped propel me into the dream job of Regional Technology Specialist that I have today. I have held IT roles in different industries such as Telecommunications, Media, Global Defense and now Automotive.

I was born and raised in Michigan and attended a technology-focused high school. From there, I attended Michigan State University where I achieved my Bachelor Degree in Media Communication and Information Technology. I then worked as a Technology Coordinator while in grad school to achieve my Master’s Degree in Instructional Technology which qualifies me to teach and train on technology and technical systems which is perfect since it’s what I do now in my career as a Regional Technology Specialist for a Fortune 50 company.

In 2016, after becoming an IT lead, I launched into a journey into professionalism and self-development, I tripled my income to where I am now. I accelerated my strategic goal setting and achievement, focus, discipline, research, and preparation. To get massive results you must take massive actions towards your goal. Self-discipline is key. Each IT role I have held has been progressive and have led me to where I am today.

Featured in Toyota Today

I have received recognition and rewards for my hard work. I have been featured on my company's website and magazine. I love the team, culture, and the people I work with. I love the freedom and flexibility that my career affords and in the tech industry you have to be a self-starter to stay on top. I love new opportunities and chances to grow and advance my skillset. I like to challenge myself and step outside of my comfort zone.

In my industry, both automotive and tech, there are times where I am usually the only woman in the room. Most people when they think of the IT person or technical person, they don’t think it will be me, a fashionable young millennial. It makes me proud to be that woman to break glass ceilings and inspire others and show them no matter what, you create your own lane and follow your dreams while staying true to yourself and style.

Due to my everyday involvement with technology, a constant challenge to overcome is to not get distracted and over engage with technology, whether it’s a smartphone, social media or the web. I practice digital minimalistic and productivity techniques and strategies to combat that. No matter whatever obstacles I have faced in my life, my faith has got me through them. I have beat the odds to become the woman I always dreamed of being!

In order to keep myself empowered and driven I stay true to myself. I pray for divine guidance and affirm positive statements and scriptures daily. I keep my self-centered and grounded due to my faith. My morning routine and solitude practices consist of visualization, affirmations, journaling, writing gratitude lists, and prayer. I stay disciplined and focused on goal setting and writing down my goals.

When you work with integrity and have a passion for helping others, it shows and others see it and want to work with you and offer you additional opportunities. It is important to be consistent with your high quality of work.

I know what the value I bring and the abilities and skills that I have to achieve success at every endeavor I encounter. My knowledge, experience, and expertise make me unique.

My Dress for Success Book Signing in Atlanta, GA

Fashion has always been an important part of my life. I dress up to look good because when I look good, I feel good. To me, just means wearing what makes you feel confident and beautiful. Style is personal and unique to each woman. I created my fashion brand Iconic Style Inc and authored my book : Dress for Success in 2019.

I love to shop, so online shopping was a natural field for me to jump into. Learning the eCommerce world has been fun and exciting as it brings my passions for both technology and fashion together. Starting a fashion brand was something I had always been interested in and encouraged to do by others. In just 2 years, I have inspired more than 2 million monthly viewers who visit my blog and website : www.iconicstyleinc.com

As a woman in IT, my future vision is to keep making a positive impact while climbing the corporate ladder. As for my brand, I love to create, so I intend on creating more avenues in the fashion and beauty space and expanding my brand. I am also working on a venture to help others gain an abundance and wealth mindset and follow their dreams.

My advice for corporate women and entrepreneurs is to always have a strong faith and belief system, always work to expand your mindset, learn as much as you can about your industry, practice self-care and self-development often and stay in a place of gratitude. Gratitude is powerful and is a catalyst for achieving and receiving more abundance in your life.

Know the power of your mind and what you can accomplish with the right positive mindset and faith. Invest in personal development, courses, conferences, and books. Obtain a money mindset, budget, save and invest wisely. Be a good steward of what you have to receive more.

When manifesting big things and dreams only share with people with the same level of excitement. Network and surround yourself with winners. Faith, belief, determination, and consistency will take you to the next level.

success
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About the Creator

Cydney McMillon

Since the age of 5, Cydney has been an avid reader with immense love for books which gradually expanded her horizon of knowledge in different domains.

Just a girl who loves fashion, technology & books.

www.iconicstyleinc.com

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