Women in Tech: Modernizing Business & Driving Inclusion at Principal
Modernizing technology is about redefining how we support business operations and enhance customer experiences.
That’s where Beth comes in. But she takes it a step further—modernizing the way we work at Principal® and fostering a more inclusive team, particularly by championing gender diversity in an industry traditionally dominated by men.
Discover Beth’s insights on her role and experiences as a woman in technology.
How did you begin your IT journey at Principal, and what is your current role?
When I moved to Des Moines, Iowa, I was eager to join a large company like Principal, as I was already familiar with the brand. My career started in project management.
Wanting to leverage my technical expertise, I transitioned into technology leadership—first within my department, then in sales compensation, and later in our actuarial modernization program. That role expanded into leading finance modernization efforts.
Today, I oversee the engineering teams responsible for our retirement transformation initiatives. While I’ve taken on various roles, I’ve always valued being part of the tech community here.
What excites you most about your work?
I thrive on modernization and transformation—projects that reassess how our people, processes, and technology must evolve to meet customer expectations.
With Principal’s 145-year legacy, we’re continually advancing our digital presence. The journey presents challenges, but seeing meaningful changes come to life is incredibly fulfilling.
How do you balance work and personal life?
As a mother of two middle-schoolers, finding the right balance requires effort. However, Principal fosters a supportive environment that allows me to be present for my children while still excelling at work. The flexibility here is essential to my success in both roles.
How have you felt supported as a woman in tech at Principal?
Principal was the first place where I saw a woman serve as chief information officer. Having a female leader in such a high-level role was inspiring and helped shape my own career aspirations.
Today, our senior leadership team includes many accomplished women, which continues to distinguish our company and drive progress.
How do you support others in the field?
I believe in doubling down on our progress—ensuring that strong female leadership remains a key focus.
I dedicate time to mentoring and coaching those with potential, helping them build confidence and reach their full capabilities.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Principal® is committed to equal employment opportunities and affirmative action. We ensure that all qualified applicants receive fair consideration for employment, regardless of factors such as age, race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. Harassment based on these factors is strictly prohibited.
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations due to a disability during the hiring process can contact Human Resources at MyHR@principal.com or call 1-866-524-6947. More details on our employment policies can be found on our careers page.
Beware of Recruitment Fraud
Fraudsters sometimes create fake job opportunities through online platforms, social media, or unsolicited messages claiming to be from Principal or its employees. Genuine opportunities are only available through our official careers page (careers.principal.com).
Principal will never request money at any stage of the hiring process. If you receive a suspicious message asking for payment or personal financial details, do not respond. Instead, report it to our Human Resources team at MyHR@principal.com or call 1-866-524-6947, as well as your local law enforcement.
Click here to know more about our recruitment fraud information.
That’s where Beth comes in. But she takes it a step further—modernizing the way we work at Principal® and fostering a more inclusive team, particularly by championing gender diversity in an industry traditionally dominated by men.
Discover Beth’s insights on her role and experiences as a woman in technology.
How did you begin your IT journey at Principal, and what is your current role?
When I moved to Des Moines, Iowa, I was eager to join a large company like Principal, as I was already familiar with the brand. My career started in project management.
Wanting to leverage my technical expertise, I transitioned into technology leadership—first within my department, then in sales compensation, and later in our actuarial modernization program. That role expanded into leading finance modernization efforts.
Today, I oversee the engineering teams responsible for our retirement transformation initiatives. While I’ve taken on various roles, I’ve always valued being part of the tech community here.
What excites you most about your work?
I thrive on modernization and transformation—projects that reassess how our people, processes, and technology must evolve to meet customer expectations.
With Principal’s 145-year legacy, we’re continually advancing our digital presence. The journey presents challenges, but seeing meaningful changes come to life is incredibly fulfilling.
How do you balance work and personal life?
As a mother of two middle-schoolers, finding the right balance requires effort. However, Principal fosters a supportive environment that allows me to be present for my children while still excelling at work. The flexibility here is essential to my success in both roles.
How have you felt supported as a woman in tech at Principal?
Principal was the first place where I saw a woman serve as chief information officer. Having a female leader in such a high-level role was inspiring and helped shape my own career aspirations.
Today, our senior leadership team includes many accomplished women, which continues to distinguish our company and drive progress.
How do you support others in the field?
I believe in doubling down on our progress—ensuring that strong female leadership remains a key focus.
I dedicate time to mentoring and coaching those with potential, helping them build confidence and reach their full capabilities.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Principal® is committed to equal employment opportunities and affirmative action. We ensure that all qualified applicants receive fair consideration for employment, regardless of factors such as age, race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. Harassment based on these factors is strictly prohibited.
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations due to a disability during the hiring process can contact Human Resources at MyHR@principal.com or call 1-866-524-6947. More details on our employment policies can be found on our careers page.
Beware of Recruitment Fraud
Fraudsters sometimes create fake job opportunities through online platforms, social media, or unsolicited messages claiming to be from Principal or its employees. Genuine opportunities are only available through our official careers page (careers.principal.com).
Principal will never request money at any stage of the hiring process. If you receive a suspicious message asking for payment or personal financial details, do not respond. Instead, report it to our Human Resources team at MyHR@principal.com or call 1-866-524-6947, as well as your local law enforcement.
Click here to know more about our recruitment fraud information.
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