Influential Woman · Technology and Fine Art Accessories
Sonya Benzmiller, CSM
CEO and Owner, WydoIT LLC and Steala LLC
St Augustine, FL 32080
Just because you can, doesn't mean you should. I ran myself ragged doing everything, until I stepped back and realized I shouldn't be doing it all myself.
Sonya Benzmiller, CSM · In Her Own Words
Her Story
About Sonya
Sonya Benzmiller, CSM, is a technology entrepreneur and creative business owner who serves as CEO and owner of WYDOIT, a technology services company established in 2020. With a background in computer science, data analytics, project management, and information technology, she helps businesses address technical and operational challenges through practical, data-driven solutions. Her expertise includes Agile methodologies, Scrum facilitation, cybersecurity, software development, artificial intelligence, and business consulting. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Drake University, with minors in Data Analytics and Music, and has earned her Certified ScrumMaster credential along with additional qualifications in cybersecurity, analytics, Google platforms, and AI. Her professional approach emphasizes collaboration, adaptability, and recognizing the individual strengths each person brings to a team. Alongside her technology work, Sonya leads Steala Jewelry, and Fine Art Accessories, a creative venture inspired by her artistic interests and appreciation for individuality. The business celebrates women's talents and beauty through artistic expression, including jewelry made from imperfect shells transformed into distinctive wearable art. Her philosophy centers on finding beauty in imperfection and recognizing the unique character that makes each creation special. Her creative background also includes opera and vocal performance, flute, and piano, as well as photography and videography. She has performed internationally, including in various European countries including Italy and China, and has collaborated with her mother on oil paintings while welcoming her sister's artistic background into the business. These experiences reflect her belief that creativity and technical thinking can complement one another in both business and life. Sonya's leadership philosophy is grounded in passion, honest communication, and a people-centered approach to problem-solving. Through WYDOIT, she works to help organizations improve their technology, develop scalable solutions, and achieve their business objectives. Through Steala Jewelry, Fine Art, and Accessories, she seeks to celebrate women's creativity and expand opportunities for artistic expression. She hopes to grow her businesses nationwide, create more employment opportunities for women, support other small businesses, and potentially establish a nonprofit organization. Selected for the Influential Women 2026 feature, representing St Augustine, Florida, Sonya brings together technical expertise, artistic vision, and a commitment to helping others recognize their potential. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, hunting with her dog, shelling, gardening, music, and traveling.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Sonya
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to passion and communication. I believe it is essential to communicate your passion clearly and authentically, allowing that passion to guide how you connect with others, approach challenges, and pursue your goals.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
I think in life, so many people try not represent there's only one way to do things. I received the advice that by doing things many different ways you find your one way. Interestingly, enough, one way/your way is unique and different from everyone else's one way. It makes me take a look at the words one way, not there is one way for everyone, as in the same way, but one way for each of us, as a unique and singular path.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Never give up. Find someone who can help you take the first steps, then keep going and continue trying, even when things do not work out as planned. Failure is part of the process, and your first idea does not have to define the rest of your career. Be willing to learn, adapt, and explore new possibilities as you grow.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Honesty, communication, and passion are the values that matter most to me. I believe honesty builds trust, communication strengthens relationships and collaboration, and passion motivates me to keep learning, solving problems, and creating meaningful work.
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