GDT is committed to supporting #WomenInTech. In this interview, Sr. Bid Manager Peggy Debrowski shares insights into her journey, challenges, and triumphs as a woman in the technology industry. From her role evolution to her passion for empowering women, Peggy’s narrative inspires and encourages aspiring professionals.
Sydney: How long have you been with GDT and what does your role entail?
Peggy: I joined GDT back in 2019 as a Customer Experience Manager and moved to Senior Bid Manager in 2022. My current role is exciting; I love working with our team of expert deal managers in such a fast-moving space.
Sydney: What is your favorite part about your job?
Peggy: Working on a variety of sales opportunities with our dynamic GDT teams.
Sydney: March is International Women’s History Month. Can you share any challenges you have faced as a woman in technology and how you overcame them?
Peggy: When I first joined the tech field, women we re underrepresented, so I faced constant challenges. Here are a few examples:
- Not letting self-doubt get in the way. It can be scary to work in an industry where you may be the only woman in the room, but you should never question if you belong there. I realized it’s important to be confident in my abilities and not count myself out.
- A big one is learning how to take negative feedback. Instead of letting criticism derail me from the job at hand, I try to dig in and see it as an opportunity to adapt and grow.
- Finally, I realized to be a strong woman in IT you need to find a good mentor. Finding a community of supporters helped me navigate through my career versus doing it on my own. When you create an army of people around you who want to succeed and see you succeed, you’ll find that success is right around the corner.
Sydney: What advice would you give to younger women looking to enter the technology industry?
Peggy: As I mentioned earlier, women have traditionally been underrepresented in the tech field, but that is changing. The number of female technologists is increasing year after year. While there is still work to be done to achieve equal representation in the industry, it is becoming less frequent to be the only female in the space. So young women should aim for the stars and strive to break the glass ceiling in technology! Remember to find out what fuels you in technology and consider how your own career could influence the next generation.
Sydney: If you could do anything for a job or career, what would it be?
Peggy: I would run my own business with my five children. I would love to watch them grow in their careers firsthand.
Sydney: What’s a fun fact about you that most people may not know?
Peggy: I was born into a Greek family, and I love cooking my Yaya’s Greek recipes.
Sydney: Where would you say is your favorite place to be or travel to?
Peggy: The Bahamas. I love the weather, scenery, and the culture. It’s the most relaxing place on earth.
Sydney: Do you have a motto or personal mantra that you live by?
Peggy: “Nature has given us all the pieces required to achieve exceptional wellness and health but has left it to us to put these pieces together.” —Diane McLaren
Sydney: If you could meet anyone in the world, past or present, who would it be?
Peggy: President Barack Obama: his positivity is so inspiring.
Sydney: Is there anything you are currently loving and want to share? This can be a podcast, book, tv show, music, activity, anything!
Peggy: I’m currently reading How Women Rise by Sally Helgesen and Marshall Goldsmith as part of the GDT Leadership Program. I would recommend the book to all women in business. It’s a great read!
Enjoyed Peggy’s insightful spotlight? Keep an eye out for future interviews with our GDT team and dive into “How Women Rise,” Peggy’s recommended read for women in business.
*At GDT, we value authenticity and diversity. Opinions shared in the Employee Spotlight help you get to know the fantastic team members at GDT and are not intended to reflect the views of GDT’s business.
