Julia Brummer

I attribute my success to a combination of strong personal support, continuous learning, and a people‑first approach to leadership.

First and foremost, I have an incredibly supportive family who grounds me and reminds me of what truly matters. Their encouragement has given me the confidence to take on challenges, embrace growth opportunities, and lead with authenticity.

I am also deeply committed to continuing education and lifelong learning. I have a genuine thirst for knowledge and believe that staying curious—about people, technology, and the world around us—is essential in an ever‑evolving industry. That curiosity has allowed me to adapt, innovate, and grow alongside the teams and customers I serve.

Equally important has been building and nurturing a strong professional network. I’ve been fortunate to learn from mentors, peers, and colleagues who challenge my thinking, offer perspective, and push me to be better. None of us succeeds alone, and I place tremendous value on collaboration and shared growth.

Finally, my success is rooted in being an empathetic leader—one who looks beyond the P&L to focus on the people doing the work. I firmly believe that when people feel seen, supported, and empowered, the results naturally follow. Leading with empathy, trust, and respect has not only strengthened teams but has also created more meaningful and sustainable outcomes.

The best career advice I’ve ever received is to speak up and be heard—but always do so with respect. Your perspective has value, and using your voice thoughtfully can influence decisions, shape culture, and create positive change far beyond your immediate role.

I was also taught not to take “no” as the final answer. Often, “no” simply means not yet. Persistence, curiosity, and the willingness to revisit an idea at the right time can open doors that initially seemed closed.

Finally, I was reminded to believe in myself, even when doubt creeps in. Everyone experiences imposter syndrome at some point—it’s how you work through it that matters. Trusting your abilities, continuing to learn, and showing up anyway is what ultimately builds confidence and momentum over time.

Be creative and bold. Don’t be afraid to bring new ideas to the table or to approach challenges differently than they’ve been done before. Innovation often comes from questioning assumptions and being willing to try something new.

Speak up—your voice matters. Your perspective, experiences, and insights bring value, and sharing them helps move organizations and industries forward. Staying curious and challenging the status quo is how progress happens.

Most importantly, hold firm in your true beliefs. You should never have to compromise who you are to succeed. Authenticity builds trust, resilience, and confidence—and those qualities will carry you far. When you lead with integrity and stay true to yourself, the right opportunities tend to follow.

One of the biggest challenges—and opportunities—in our field is building trust in AI. As AI becomes more embedded in how we operate and make decisions, organizations must ensure transparency, responsible use, and clear communication so people trust not only the technology, but the intent behind it.

Another critical area of focus is data centers and water usage. As digital capabilities expand, so does the responsibility to address sustainability and resource stewardship. The opportunity lies in innovating in ways that allow technology to scale while being thoughtful about environmental impact.

Equally important is balancing the use of AI without compromising the human element. Technology should enhance relationships, not replace them. The challenge is ensuring AI supports better decision‑making and efficiency while preserving the trust, empathy, and connection that are foundational to strong customer and team relationships.

Finally, we are navigating an evolving workforce, where expectations around flexibility, purpose, and connection continue to change. Building and maintaining meaningful relationships—across generations, roles, and ways of working—requires intentional leadership, adaptability, and a continued focus on people.

At the core of everything I do is family first. My family is my foundation and the lens through which I prioritize my time, energy, and decisions. Staying grounded in what matters most allows me to show up more fully and authentically in both my work and personal life.

I am also deeply faith‑centered, and my faith guides my values, integrity, and sense of purpose. It shapes how I treat others, how I lead, and how I navigate both challenges and opportunities.

Trust and transparency are essential to me—in leadership, relationships, and collaboration. I believe strong teams and meaningful partnerships are built when people feel safe, informed, and respected.

I strive to lead with empathy and understanding, recognizing that behind every role and title is a person with their own experiences, challenges, and aspirations. When leaders take the time to listen and truly understand, stronger outcomes naturally follow.

Equally important is being intentional and present in the moment, whether at work or at home. I believe presence is one of the most meaningful ways to demonstrate respect, care, and commitment.

Finally, one of my greatest personal values is raising my three young boys to become confident, faith‑ and family‑focused men—individuals who can recognize the right thing to do and have the courage to do it, even when it’s the unpopular choice. That value system ultimately informs how I lead, how I serve, and how I show up every day.