Overcoming Obstacles: The Inspiring Journey of Charles Harley

In this episode of Tech on Tap, we’re joined by Ann Madea, Chief Information Officer at Simmons Bank, a seasoned IT leader with global and community banking experience. From her early days as a programmer to her current role driving innovation as a CIO, Ann has led organizations through transformative change, risk mitigation, and cost reduction.

As we stride into 2025, it’s impossible to ignore a glaring imbalance in the artificial intelligence (AI) workforce. Currently, a staggering 71% of the AI workforce is male, leaving just 29% of these critical roles filled by women. This disparity doesn’t just reflect a diversity issue; it’s a missed opportunity to leverage diverse perspectives and talents in shaping the future of AI.

We’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Michelle Prince, a true expert in career transformation, who will guide us through the art of crafting an Encore Career. If you’re nearing retirement or simply seeking to redefine your professional path, this conversation is packed with actionable strategies to help you keep growing, make meaningful contributions, and strike the perfect balance between financial stability and personal fulfillment.

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Colin Rocker, a career-focused content creator and advocate who has built a community of over 375,000 followers across various platforms. With a diverse background in consulting, startups, and advertising, Colin has made it his mission to empower “first-gen professionals”—those who are the first in their families to navigate the corporate world.

Change is a constant in the tech industry. As businesses grow, adapt, and disrupt the IT landscape, embracing innovation is crucial to staying ahead. To remain relevant and ultimately outpace the competition, companies must be nimble and flexible with their IT projects and hiring strategies. While offshore teams have been a traditional solution for the talent shortage faced by U.S. companies, they often fall short due to high costs, cultural differences, and language barriers. However, a customized nearshore approach, particularly in Guadalajara and throughout Mexico, has proven to be an effective alternative.