Her Story
About Joan
Joan Baker is a senior online event producer at O'Reilly Media, where she has worked for the last five years. In this role she plans and manages the production of daily live events for a global audience. With over 25 years in technology, she previously worked at Hatch Early Childhood installing computers and interactive whiteboards before advancing through roles to become a regional manager and then national field manager. She holds a degree in speech communication and an MBA in technology management. She attributes her success to coming from a family of hard workers with parents in education who emphasized hard work and pursuing higher education goals.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Joan
01What do you attribute your success to?
I come from a family of hard workers. Both of my parents are in education. It all came from my family. My parents always pushed hard work, being a hard worker, and they always push education, education, education. As a young girl, my parents have always been my inspiration to pursue higher goals.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
My parents always pushed hard work and education. Education was kind of what could get them through the door, so they always pushed hard work, being a hard worker, and they always push education, education, education. That even you always have something to fall back on.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Really just to believe in your own abilities and not to be afraid to take up space. Technology is constantly changing, so focus on being curious, continuing to learn, and being willing to just take on challenges even when you don't have every answer. Networking is important to build a strong network of people who are also in your industry. Continue to be willing to learn and speak up and keep moving forward.
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