Lauren Cleary
Lauren Cleary is a seasoned Technical Writer and Project Manager with over 25 years of professional experience, spanning enterprise business and federal government environments. She has developed expertise in Microsoft SharePoint, Visio, client relations, and project coordination, allowing her to seamlessly manage multiple projects while gathering and applying information efficiently. Lauren has worked with major organizations including Amazon, Capital One, Amtrak, and UnitedHealth Group, creating clear, actionable documentation, training materials, and internal process guides that enhance operational efficiency.
Throughout her career, Lauren has leveraged her experience on long-term contracts to build a diverse skill set that enables her to adapt to various roles, from Communications Specialist to Project Manager. She is currently focused on transitioning into full-time leadership positions, applying her extensive knowledge to guide teams, improve processes, and mentor colleagues.
Lauren is also actively advancing her education, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in User Experience at Arizona State University, while holding certifications in Agile and Scrum Project Management and ML Modeling. Beyond her professional work, she is engaged in volunteer activities, including fostering animals and fundraising for health organizations, reflecting her commitment to giving back to the community.
• Certified Enterprise DataML Associate (CEDA): ML Modeling
• The Complete Agile and Scrum Project Management Course
• Arizona State University- B.S.
• Germanna Community College- Associate's
• DeVry University
• Military Training
• American Intercontinental University
• Delaware Humane Association
• American Heart Association
• Special Olympics
• American Red Cross
• Morale, Welfare & Recreation
• DR SEUSS FOUNDATION
• Autism Speaks
• Women's March
• Save Mickey
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to resilience, self-advocacy, and perseverance. Balancing my career while raising two children with special needs as a single parent has taught me determination, adaptability, and the importance of speaking up for fair treatment and better opportunities.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would tell young women entering this industry to advocate for themselves, speak up, and never apologize for competence or confidence. Learning to set boundaries and assert your value is essential, especially in technical and traditionally male-dominated fields.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges in my field right now are navigating contract instability, combating the undervaluation of documentation roles, and managing high-pressure technical environments. At the same time, there are great opportunities for those who can combine technical expertise with strong communication skills and confidently advocate for their role on complex projects.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in my work and personal life are honesty, fairness, self-respect, and advocacy. I also prioritize mental well-being, setting boundaries, and balancing personal health with professional responsibilities.