Her Story
About Michelle
Michelle Gimbel is the Founder of 3E-AI Solutions LLC, an IT and AI consulting firm based in San Antonio, Texas, dedicated to helping small businesses modernize their operations through practical, people-first artificial intelligence solutions. With approximately 15 years of experience spanning technology, business development, proposal management, and operational strategy, she specializes in identifying workflow inefficiencies and implementing scalable automation that enables organizations to increase productivity, reduce operational friction, and support sustainable growth. Before launching her company, Gimbel built an accomplished career leading complex proposal initiatives for government contractors and technology organizations, successfully managing high-value federal pursuits and business transformation projects. A graduate of Texas State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies as a Cum Laude graduate, Gimbel holds multiple Google AI certifications, including AI for Writing and Communicating and AI for Content Creation. Throughout her career, she has remained committed to continuous learning and innovation while mentoring organizations through digital transformation. In addition to consulting, she actively educates entrepreneurs by conducting AI workshops designed to make emerging technologies more accessible to small businesses and underserved communities. Driven by a passion for empowering others, Gimbel believes technology should enhance people rather than replace them. She attributes much of her professional success to the mentors who invested in her growth and continues to advocate for lifelong learning, resilience, and community engagement. Beyond her professional endeavors, she volunteers with organizations including the Valero Texas Open and International Women's Day initiatives, reflecting her commitment to service, leadership, and expanding opportunities for others. Through her work, Gimbel continues to help organizations embrace innovation with confidence while creating lasting, measurable impact.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Michelle
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the guidance and encouragement of outstanding mentors, particularly women who invested their time in teaching me how to deliver presentations, write compelling proposals, and confidently navigate challenging situations. Their mentorship helped shape both my professional skills and my confidence. I also believe continuous self-training and maintaining a lifelong learning mindset are essential. Technology evolves rapidly, and staying curious and committed to growth has enabled me to adapt, remain competitive, and continue creating value for others.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have received is to keep pursuing education and never stop learning. My teachers encouraged me to continue investing in my education, and that advice became foundational to my career. I also benefited from mentors who emphasized the importance of preparing thoroughly, communicating effectively, and learning how to handle challenges with confidence. Those lessons continue to guide my professional development today.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice is to pursue the work you are genuinely passionate about, whether that is technology, business development, or another field. Seek out mentors—even if the relationship develops informally—and learn from people who have already navigated the path you want to pursue. Listen carefully to their experiences, apply their guidance to your own challenges, advocate for yourself, and commit to lifelong learning. Remaining adaptable and continuously developing your skills will position you for long-term success.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest challenges is keeping pace with the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence and the ongoing changes affecting the technology industry, including workforce disruptions and shifting business demands. There are also continuing opportunities to improve diversity and leadership representation within the field. At the same time, these changes present tremendous opportunities. AI enables small businesses to leverage the same efficiencies and strategic advantages previously available only to large corporations. By combining practical AI solutions with proven business practices, organizations can improve productivity, scale more effectively, and expand access to innovation within their communities.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I strive to lead with compassion, empathy, advocacy, resilience, and integrity in everything I do. I believe in serving others, giving back to my community, and creating opportunities for people who may not otherwise have access to technology or business resources. Continuous learning is one of my core values because growth requires adaptability and curiosity. I also recognize the importance of maintaining personal well-being and balance, allowing time to recharge so I can continue serving others effectively while making a meaningful, lasting impact.
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