Illinois Technology Association Partners With Women's Executive Networking Group to Advance Women in Technology

CHICAGO, IL--(Marketwire - Mar 5, 2013) - The Illinois Technology Association (ITA) has established a new partnership with the Chicago Executive Women's Networking Group, an affiliation that will forge new connections and greater opportunities for women in technology.

The ITA relationship extends the reach of the networking group's quarterly meetings by including female executives at ITA member organizations, to expand the support of women in technology company leadership roles.

The Chicago Executive Women's Networking Group began eight years ago as an informal dinner gathering where three women shared their stories and experiences working in the male-centric technology industry. Over the years, the dinners developed into a formalized network of more than 150 women across Chicago that meet quarterly for networking, sharing information and insights, and providing opportunities, visibility and mentoring for women working or interested in technology or who utilize technology in their careers.

"Advancing and supporting women in technology is imperative, and the ITA's partnership with the Chicago Women's Networking Group achieves multiple objectives," said ITA Vice President Sarah Habansky. "It addresses a significant need by advancing the volume and quality of women in computing and technology. As another benefit of ITA membership, it enables women executives to join a dynamic, influential network of peers, providing support as they continue their career advancement. This relationship also allows the ITA to help bridge the talent and gender gaps in IT; I think there is untapped potential among women that holds great promise for area businesses."

Founders of the Chicago Executive Women's Networking Group are Harvey Nash Managing Director and Vice President Jane Gilligan, McCann Partners President and Founder Megan McCann, and ClearEdge Marketing CEO and Founder Leslie Vickrey.

In February 2013, the networking group launched ARA Chicago, a program that supports women in technology by helping Attract, Retain and Advance women in the traditionally male-driven field. ARA's goal is to provide up-and-coming women in IT with career support and mentoring. ARA's inaugural meeting -- a speed networking event at which mentees will be matched with CIO mentors -- is Thursday, April 4 at 5:30 p.m. at the ITA offices. For more information, email ara@clearedgemarketing.com.

About the ITA

The Illinois Technology Association (ITA) drives the success of technology companies through programs in development, talent and visibility. Through its focus on growth acceleration and sustainability, the ITA is a driving force behind the advancement of Illinois' vibrant technology industry. The ITA's 650 member organizations, reflecting a collective workforce of more than 50,000, benefit from resources, collaboration, networking and access to a curated network of experts. Member companies utilize the transformative nature of technology to differentiate their products and services across a broad spectrum of industries. For more information, visit www.illinoistech.org, follow the ITA on Twitter at www.twitter.com/itabuzz, and view the ITA's Facebook profile at www.facebook.com/illinoistechnology.