Influential Woman · Information Technology (IT)
Sandra Hillery, BS
Senior Health IT Specialist, W2 Consulting Corporation
Lakeland, FL 33810
Her Story
About Sandra
Sandra Hillery, BS, is a seasoned Information Technology professional with more than three decades of experience spanning Health IT, technical support, systems administration, reporting, and enterprise technology solutions. Since beginning her IT career in 1989 following her military service, she has built extensive expertise supporting complex technology environments for organizations including Microsoft, Lockheed Martin, Citicorp, Chase, T-Mobile, Lakeland Regional Health, DLA Piper, and W2 Consulting Corporation. Currently serving as a Senior Health IT Specialist at W2 Consulting Corporation, Sandra provides advanced technical support, security compliance, reporting solutions, SPARS helpdesk for SAMHSA, data analysis for Oracle development, and expertise supporting federal and state healthcare initiatives, including electronic health record (EHR) modernization projects. Sandra holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Computer and Information Sciences from Everest University-South Orlando, graduating with a 4.0 GPA. Summa cum laude. She has strengthened her technical expertise through numerous industry certifications, including CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP), and the Microsoft IT Support Specialist Professional Certificate. Her professional strengths include technical troubleshooting, Health IT systems, Oracle reporting, dashboard development, network administration, security compliance, and user support. Throughout her career, she has become known for her ability to solve complex technical problems, simplify challenging processes, and deliver dependable solutions that improve operational efficiency and user experience. Beyond her technical accomplishments, Sandra's career reflects resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to lifelong learning. A military veteran and entrepreneur, she has overcome personal and professional challenges while remaining dedicated to integrity, accountability, and helping others succeed. She encourages the next generation of technology professionals—especially women—to pursue careers that align with their passions, continuously expand their knowledge, and never allow obstacles or past experiences to define their future. Her career stands as a testament to perseverance, continuous growth, and the lasting impact of combining technical expertise with strong personal values.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Sandra
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to perseverance, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to continuous learning. Throughout my career, I have embraced change, adapted to new technologies, and remained determined to overcome every challenge placed before me. My military experience strengthened my discipline and accountability, while my passion for problem-solving and helping others has allowed me to build a rewarding career in information technology.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is to always believe that I can accomplish whatever I set my mind to and never allow anyone to convince me otherwise. I have learned not to doubt myself, to trust my abilities, and to continue growing through every opportunity and challenge that comes my way.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice is to truly understand yourself before choosing a career in technology. Pursue IT because it aligns with your interests and strengths, not simply because it is a popular field. Stay true to your values, continue learning throughout your career, and never allow your past or the opinions of others to define your future. There are many paths to success in technology, so find the one that best fits your talents and passions.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in today's technology industry is adapting to the increasing role of artificial intelligence in hiring and the changing employment landscape. Professionals must remain committed to continuous learning and be willing to embrace new technologies to stay relevant. There are also unique challenges for women working in a traditionally male-dominated industry, but these challenges create opportunities to demonstrate expertise, resilience, and leadership while helping shape a more inclusive future for technology.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide both my professional and personal life are integrity, honesty, accountability, dependability, and creative problem-solving. I believe in always doing the right thing, taking responsibility for my actions, and approaching challenges with an open mind and a willingness to think outside the box. These principles have shaped my career and continue to guide every decision I make.
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