In this season, we're shining a spotlight on the trailblazers in the tech industry, both established veterans and emerging talents, who are pushing the boundaries of innovation. I'm your host, Ceci Fischer-Benitez, and together, we'll explore their successes, understand the challenges they've faced, and dive into the unique experiences that have guided their tech careers.

In the latest episode of the Chicago Techies Podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting the dynamic Lynette Correa-Velez, Founding Director of Tech Launchpad at Kennedy King College. In our conversation with Lynette, we tackle lessons learned in leadership and entrepreneurship, giving us a glimpse into her life as a first-generation high school and college graduate. Lynette talks about the struggles of bootstrapping businesses without access to capital or mentorship and emphasizes her commitment to empowering others.

With a strong focus on diversity, equity, inclusion, access, and justice (DEIAJ), Lynette shares insights into intersectionality in advocacy work and the systemic issues that individuals striving for upward socioeconomic mobility face. We discussed Tech Launchpad's initiatives in providing tech resources and opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds.

This conversation not only underscores the importance of racial and gender equity in the tech industry but also the significance of Lynette's role in supporting underrepresented minorities and underserved communities in the tech field.

Connect with Lynette:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lcorreavelez/ 

Tech Launch Pad: https://techlaunchpad.ccc.edu/ 

Connect with Chicago Techies Podcast:

Website: https://chicagotechiespodcast.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chicagotechies/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chicago-techies-podcast 

Connect with Ceci:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cfischerbenitez/