Women Tech Council Holiday Social 2024: Building Together
Marisa Holt offers a recap of the Women Tech Council's Holiday Social, one of the most fun an festive events of the year for Utah's tech sector.
Ecosystem
How do you begin building the best version of yourself? That’s the question I found myself exploring at the Women Tech Council (WTC) Holiday Social that took place on December 12, 2024, one of the most anticipated Utah tech sector events of the year. With its focus on connection and growth, this event promised to inspire and guide attendees on their unique journeys.
I arrived at the Adobe building in Lehi eager to see how the WTC—a national organization dedicated to driving the economic impact of women in tech—creates spaces for connection and growth. WTC fosters mentorship, visibility, and inclusivity across all stages of a tech career.
The evening’s theme, “Building Your Unique Journey,” set the tone for what was both a reflective and energizing event. Dr. Georgi Ann Rausch, a professor and lecturer in the Department of Management at the David Eccles School of Business, at the University of Utah, and an expert in mindfulness and emotional intelligence, delivered the keynote address. Her insights were both practical and profound. She invited us to envision the habits of our future selves and consider how to start embodying them today. “The 2025 version of you is ready to be born,” she said. “What is the difference between old you and new you?”
Dr. Rausch emphasized the importance of self-compassion and mindfulness in growth. Her advice—to “coach yourself through change” and “cultivate trust and fun”—resonated deeply with me. She encouraged us to let go of the “trance of unworthiness” and embrace a mindset of possibility. “Caretake your dreams and believe you are worth it,” she urged.
Adding a touch of artistry to the evening, Hayley Victor Sjoquist’s musical performance was a highlight. Her soulful songs filled the space, blending creativity with inspiration and reinforcing the theme of unique journeys.
Instagram: @hayleyvic.tor, TikTok: @hayleyvictor
The event concluded with a networking session where attendees mingled over refreshments and photo opps against festive holiday backdrops. It was invigorating to meet women from various tech backgrounds, sharing stories of triumphs and challenges. One conversation stood out: a woman described how WTC programs had helped her transition into tech, showcasing the tangible impact of this community. By the end of the night, I’d exchanged contact information with several women and connected with others on LinkedIn.
The lessons from the 2024 WTC Holiday Social have already shaped my perspective. Dr. Rausch’s exercise of envisioning the “future you” has become a daily practice and, I hope, will continue to do so into the year year. Each morning, I take a moment to reflect on the habits and mindset I want to cultivate. This approach has brought clarity to my goals and confidence in pursuing them. The connections I made at the event continue to inspire me, reminding me that progress is a collective effort.
Looking ahead at the new year, I’m committed to integrating the insights from this event into my personal and professional life. Whether it’s building relationships based on trust, embracing self-compassion, or taking bold steps toward my dreams, the WTC Holiday Social provided a roadmap for growth. It was more than a celebration—it was an investment in the journeys we’re all creating.
Thanks to the Women’s Tech Council, I left feeling empowered and ready to navigate the unique path ahead.
