Empowering Women in Tech: Leadership, Mentorship & Culture at GoDaddy
I have been with GoDaddy for nearly nine years, leading the Global Research and Insights Team (GRIT). As a Center of Excellence, we provide valuable insights that shape strategy and business decisions across the company. In my first year, I joined GoDaddy Women in Tech (GDWIT) because I was passionate about supporting women within our organization. It was also a fantastic way to connect with colleagues.
When we had an office in Santa Clara, California, I took on the role of GDWIT leader for that location, organizing events and inviting guest speakers. One of my favorite gatherings was an afternoon tea, which saw an incredible turnout—after all, who can resist tea sandwiches, scones, and cookies?
My former manager, Laura Messerschmitt, who serves as GDWIT’s Executive Sponsor, encouraged me to get more involved. Over time, my engagement deepened, and I joined the leadership council to help plan events. I later advanced to Co-Vice President and now proudly serve as Co-President. GDWIT has consistently been a valuable resource for both its members and the company, and I am honored to contribute to such an impactful Employee Resource Group.
What led you to a career in the tech industry?
My journey into tech was unexpected. While completing my Ph.D. in Educational Psychology at UC Berkeley, specializing in Quantitative Methods, I initially envisioned a career in academia. However, an internship opportunity arose at Tandem Computers within their Quality Improvement team, offering a compelling salary.
I started working part-time and was captivated by the fast-paced decision-making—so different from the lengthy academic research process. My manager at Tandem, an incredible woman, became a mentor to me. Later, at Cadence Design Systems, I encountered another inspiring female leader who guided me further. These experiences solidified my path in the tech industry.
What do you value most about GoDaddy’s company culture?
GoDaddy’s inclusivity and commitment to diversity are aspects I truly appreciate. The culture is highly collaborative, and I feel fortunate to work with a supportive team that always steps up for one another. Additionally, GoDaddy prioritizes work-life balance, and initiatives like Wellness Days reflect this commitment.
What advice would you give to employees interested in GDWIT?
I strongly encourage joining GDWIT! Being part of this group allows you to network with colleagues who share a passion for empowering women in technology. Members have access to insightful sessions, webinars, wellness events, mentorship opportunities, and more. It’s a great way to grow personally and professionally while contributing to a meaningful cause.
What changes do you hope to see for women in tech?
I hope to see more women stepping into senior leadership roles across the tech industry. At GoDaddy, we are fortunate to have many strong female leaders, and through GDWIT events, we’ve had the privilege of hearing their experiences and advice. Their stories provide both inspiration and practical guidance for women at various stages in their careers.
What are your interests outside of work?
I love traveling, baking, and spending time with my family—my husband, Fred, and our 24-year-old twin sons, Daniel and Gabriel. Every year, I bake holiday cookies for family, friends, and my amazing GRIT team leaders. I typically make around nine different recipes, with multiple batches of each, resulting in hundreds of cookies! As for travel, our recent adventures have taken us to Vietnam and Cambodia, Costa Rica, Egypt, and Portugal, though Australia remains my favorite destination.
Want to learn more about life at GoDaddy?
Follow our GoDaddy Life social pages to meet our team, explore our company culture—including our teams, ERGs, and locations—discover career opportunities, and more. You’re more than just your day job, so come grow your career with us!
When we had an office in Santa Clara, California, I took on the role of GDWIT leader for that location, organizing events and inviting guest speakers. One of my favorite gatherings was an afternoon tea, which saw an incredible turnout—after all, who can resist tea sandwiches, scones, and cookies?
My former manager, Laura Messerschmitt, who serves as GDWIT’s Executive Sponsor, encouraged me to get more involved. Over time, my engagement deepened, and I joined the leadership council to help plan events. I later advanced to Co-Vice President and now proudly serve as Co-President. GDWIT has consistently been a valuable resource for both its members and the company, and I am honored to contribute to such an impactful Employee Resource Group.
What led you to a career in the tech industry?
My journey into tech was unexpected. While completing my Ph.D. in Educational Psychology at UC Berkeley, specializing in Quantitative Methods, I initially envisioned a career in academia. However, an internship opportunity arose at Tandem Computers within their Quality Improvement team, offering a compelling salary.
I started working part-time and was captivated by the fast-paced decision-making—so different from the lengthy academic research process. My manager at Tandem, an incredible woman, became a mentor to me. Later, at Cadence Design Systems, I encountered another inspiring female leader who guided me further. These experiences solidified my path in the tech industry.
What do you value most about GoDaddy’s company culture?
GoDaddy’s inclusivity and commitment to diversity are aspects I truly appreciate. The culture is highly collaborative, and I feel fortunate to work with a supportive team that always steps up for one another. Additionally, GoDaddy prioritizes work-life balance, and initiatives like Wellness Days reflect this commitment.
What advice would you give to employees interested in GDWIT?
I strongly encourage joining GDWIT! Being part of this group allows you to network with colleagues who share a passion for empowering women in technology. Members have access to insightful sessions, webinars, wellness events, mentorship opportunities, and more. It’s a great way to grow personally and professionally while contributing to a meaningful cause.
What changes do you hope to see for women in tech?
I hope to see more women stepping into senior leadership roles across the tech industry. At GoDaddy, we are fortunate to have many strong female leaders, and through GDWIT events, we’ve had the privilege of hearing their experiences and advice. Their stories provide both inspiration and practical guidance for women at various stages in their careers.
What are your interests outside of work?
I love traveling, baking, and spending time with my family—my husband, Fred, and our 24-year-old twin sons, Daniel and Gabriel. Every year, I bake holiday cookies for family, friends, and my amazing GRIT team leaders. I typically make around nine different recipes, with multiple batches of each, resulting in hundreds of cookies! As for travel, our recent adventures have taken us to Vietnam and Cambodia, Costa Rica, Egypt, and Portugal, though Australia remains my favorite destination.
Want to learn more about life at GoDaddy?
Follow our GoDaddy Life social pages to meet our team, explore our company culture—including our teams, ERGs, and locations—discover career opportunities, and more. You’re more than just your day job, so come grow your career with us!
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