Her Story
About Serena
Serena Heddell serves as the CEO and Co-Founder of Synth Forge Studios, a full-service creative and digital solutions studio based in Huntington Station, New York. With approximately three years of experience in the technology industry and six to seven years of experience in professional audio engineering, Serena has developed a unique career at the intersection of music, technology, and business. Since helping establish Synth Forge Studios in 2024, she has played a key role in shaping the company’s vision, combining audio engineering, web design, and software development to create innovative solutions that support clients’ evolving needs.
Serena earned her bachelor’s degree in Production and Business from Berklee Online in 2025, where she gained expertise in music production, audio engineering, and business strategy. She has expanded her professional experience through her work with The Loft Sound Studio and Embassy Studios in New York City, contributing to recording sessions, audio production, mixing, mastering, and studio operations. Her areas of specialization include audio engineering, strategic development, creative problem-solving, and relationship building within the music and technology industries.
Beyond her professional achievements, Serena is passionate about giving back to her community and maintaining meaningful connections with others. Through Synth Forge Studios, she supports the Huntington Manor Fire Department Juniors Program and serves on the development team for Pop Star Party, reflecting her commitment to service, collaboration, and strong community values. Outside of her career, Serena enjoys hiking, reading, and spending quality time with family and friends. Guided by creativity, innovation, and a dedication to lifelong growth, she continues to inspire through her leadership and commitment to bringing ideas to life.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Serena
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the strong foundation and encouragement instilled in me by my mother, who raised me to be determined, resilient, and driven. Her unwavering belief in me has inspired me to keep pushing forward, even during challenging times. Whenever I face moments of doubt, her intuition and encouragement remind me to stay focused, persevere, and continue striving toward my goals.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is to keep getting back up, remain resilient, and use the assumptions others may have about me as motivation to prove my capabilities. I have learned that other people’s opinions should never define my potential or limit my confidence. Instead, I focus on staying determined, embracing challenges, and allowing my actions and accomplishments to speak for themselves.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
The advice I would give to young women entering my industry is to actively build and showcase their personal brand. Take on projects that inspire you, even outside of traditional opportunities, and use those experiences to demonstrate your creativity, skills, and passion. Share your work and accomplishments so others can recognize your contributions, but always let the quality of your work speak for itself. Success comes from being confident in your abilities, staying visible, and never being afraid to advocate for yourself.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges and opportunities in my field right now involve finding the right artists and collaborators who align with my vision while navigating a highly competitive and male-dominated industry. As a woman carving my own path, I have had to overcome underestimation and challenge traditional expectations. These experiences have also created opportunities to break barriers, showcase my skills, and continue trailblazing through dedication, creativity, and confidence in my abilities.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are community, family, loyalty, and teamwork. I believe in building strong relationships and creating a supportive environment where people look out for one another, whether they are connected by blood or chosen as family. I value being dependable, showing up for others, and working together toward shared goals with respect, trust, and genuine care.
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