Acecia Thomas-Baker

Tell us your story.

Because I am a millennial, I have been fortunate enough to experience the evolution of the tech space first hand. I think that I have a unique appreciation for technology because I grew up during a time when a lot of new technology was being introduced to the masses for the first time. We’ve come so far, and I am just as excited about technology now as I was when I was a kid. I remember being in the fourth grade and working with our class’ virtual reality computer program called MUSE, at that time there was nothing out like it, we used these small computers with black screens and green text and there were very few functions them. This program was one of my favorite things, I was fascinated by the idea of this virtual world and can say that it contributed to my continuous curiosity and passion for tech.

We live in a digital world with what seems like endless possibilities. What I love most about technology is its ability to connect people. Some of these inventions have made it so easy for us to have global perspectives and connect with individuals and cultures all around the world. I was fascinated by ads, clever marketing campaigns and the ability to cut across cultures, locations and connect with individuals in entirely new ways. Growing up the idea of “Skyping” or being on Face Time with my friends and family that are thousands of miles away was something I could only imagine in my head or would see in movies. But today in 2015, It is very much my reality, and I don’t take this for granted, I understand how awesome this is and I also understand that technology will continue to help improve the quality of everyday lives.

In middle school I became more involved in the TV production side of things along with graphic design. I hosted a local television show and helped edit and produce it as well. These were two outlets that I really enjoyed and considered to be a form of creative expression. This continued throughout my high school and college career. I started off as a TV Production Major at Howard University but once I was exposed to the marketing and business side of the industry, I realized that I was more interested in that aspect and ended up switching my major to Telecommunications Management.

Currently, I oversee the marketing department at the organization I work for and this is something that really resonates. I work with a group of talented individuals who all share the same passion for marketing that I have a together we create content that we share with the members of the organization primarily through digital platforms. I enjoy what I do not only because it continues to challenge me but also because it is a role that allows me to focus on what I have always loved which is exciting to me.

What do you most want other women and young girls to know about being a woman in our digital culture?

The first thing I would say is to 100% embrace fact that you are a women in tech. This space is a unique position to be in and your diverse perspective is appreciated, so own it!. You have the ability to make and impact simply by being you. I’d also say keep challenging yourself - always. Stay relevant, keep improving and keep innovating. Never stop learning. This industry is always evolving and looking for the next great thing, so dont be afraid to take on the challenge and leave your mark.

The Women in Tech campaign exists to help redefine what women in technology means in the 21st century. Started independently by a group of professional women who, after many impassioned discussions about women in tech knew we wanted to expand this definition beyond 'traditional' technology skills. To us, it includes most every current, emerging or evolving role within an organization. By featuring leaders and emerging leaders across industries who embody this we hope to collectively 'stand up', be proud of our place in the digital world and inspire young women or those new to the 'tech space' to get involved.