Indiana Women IN Tech Week
A Statewide Celebration of Innovation, Leadership, and Connection
Beginning September 14th, Indiana Women IN Tech Week promises to capitalize on the momentum from last year’s success. A concept and brand were created with the intention of being shared.
“We created Indiana Women IN Tech Week to shine a spotlight on the successes of women who work in tech and who are often overlooked,” shares co-founder Linda Calvin. “Kara [Kavensky] and I wanted to establish a week where companies, organizations, and municipalities could leverage our brand and celebrate in any way they wish. We encourage everyone to celebrate the women working behind the scenes within your company.’”
Companies celebrated and honored women working in tech in a variety of ways: via newsletters, notes of appreciation, social media posts, and luncheons. Events varied across the state and brought together students, professionals, and allies under one roof to foster mentorship and professional growth.
The inaugural Indiana Women IN Tech Week left a powerful mark in 2024, spanning 26 cities nationwide—with seven hubs in Indiana leading the charge: Fishers, Fort Wayne, Indianapolis, Lafayette, Muncie, South Bend, and Vincennes. From keynote speeches and workshops to student testimonials and community partnerships, each city showcased the talent, resilience, and collaboration that continue to shape Indiana’s growing tech landscape made up of women.
Muncie emerged as a shining example of collaboration during Indiana Women IN Tech Week. Held on September 17, the celebration featured keynote speaker Linda Calvin, whose dynamic leadership in tech has inspired many across Indiana. A panel discussion led by Kirsten Smith spotlighted three accomplished women: Amanda Collins (ekeepers), Ari Moreland (Moser Consulting), and Valerie Hurwitz (Accutech)—all of whom shared candid insights about their career paths and the challenges and triumphs of women in technology. Student voices also took center stage, with heartfelt testimonials from Chloe Reuber and Erica Bouse (Ivy Tech) alongside Jaidyn Coleman and Jayci Wimmer (Ball State University). Their reflections underscored the importance of representation, mentorship, and encouragement in a field still working toward gender balance.
Fort Wayne’s Indiana Women IN Tech Week brought together diverse programming, including a kickoff brunch that drew 150 attendees, an intimate Tech Talk & Cocktails, and a Career & Resource Fair with nearly 200 registrants. Each event underscored the importance of creating spaces where women and allies can connect professionally, exchange resources, and open doors to new career opportunities.
The Girl Scouts of Central Indiana played a unique role in Indiana Women IN Tech Week 2024, designing STEM and coding events for younger audiences. Programs such as Physics of Play (STEM Day), Coding is LEGIT (with Liberty Mutual’s Liberty Encouraging Girls in Tech group), and Tinker Fest at the Indiana State Museum reached nearly 150 kids and adults combined. Their commitment continues into 2025, with six statewide programs already planned to expand girls’ access to STEM learning and mentorship.
At Vincennes University, the Women IN Tech symposium highlighted student and alumni innovation, drawing press coverage and a feature in their alumni magazine. The event reinforced VU’s dedication to providing platforms for women pursuing tech careers, amplifying their voices at both local and national levels.
In the capital city, Brooksource—which celebrated Women IN Tech Week at over 22 locations nationwide—hosted a vibrant networking and career development event. Seventy participants engaged in speaker sessions, career fair-style meetups with local organizations, and structured networking activities. Attendees praised the actionable content and the physical materials provided, which encouraged meaningful follow-up connections.
Behind the scenes, leaders such as Ariel Crawley, Danna Bishop, Kara Kavensky, Mariah Oliver, and Linzi M. Rodgers played vital roles in ensuring the week’s success.
A Growing Movement
The energy of Indiana Women IN Tech Week reflects a growing movement: women across the state—and across the country—are not just entering the tech space, they are shaping it. From students sharing their stories in Muncie to corporate leaders mentoring in Indianapolis, to Girl Scouts coding their first programs, the week served as a reminder that innovation is not just about technology—it’s about people.
As Indiana looks ahead to 2025, momentum is building. With more programs already on the horizon, Indiana Women IN Tech Week is poised to empower even more women, spark new collaborations, and cement the state as a national leader in advancing women in technology.
IndianaWomenINTechWeek.com and follow on socials: @indianawomenintech
