For Jessie Bradford, a Senior Business Planning and Support Consultant in the Technology organization at First Citizens Bank, leadership development is about more than just professional growth—it's about creating a ripple effect that benefits entire teams and organizations.
Jessie Bradford, who completed the Women in Technical Leadership program in June 2024, found unique value in the program’s blend of analytical and personal development approaches.
“The Women in Technical Leadership program provided relevant, data-driven education through hands-on instruction and group activities… and continues to provide me with depth of perspective when I am making decisions in the workplace,” Bradford reflected.
But what particularly resonated with Bradford was the program’s human-centric approach.
“Equally valuable for me was the human-centric approach the program took, aiming at learning more about ourselves while we seek to understand others,” she shared. “This practice of inward and outward reflection strengthened me as a leader when solving diverse sets of challenges in the workplace.”
Embracing Change as an Opportunity
Among the program’s various modules, the session on “Leading Organizational and Personal Change” left a lasting impression on Bradford. In today’s dynamic business landscape, particularly in the technology sector, change management skills are crucial for effective leadership.
“NC State’s WiTL program hit the topic of change head-on and empowered me to find comfort in what can sometimes understandably be an uncomfortable environment,” Bradford explained.
“WiTL provided real-world insights on not just how to endure change, but how to support change and accomplish successful outcomes through change.”
Building Lasting Professional Connections
The program’s impact extends beyond individual skills development through its strong emphasis on community building. Bradford has maintained connections with her fellow participants, finding value in their shared experiences and perspectives.
“I have kept in touch with fellow participants from my time in the Women in Tech program,” she said. “This network of women leaders in technical roles is particularly important to me, as we connected deeply over shared experiences and purpose-driven ideas. We can continue to be lifelines for one another for years to come.”
Organizational Impact
Bradford recognizes that the benefits of leadership development extend beyond individual growth to impact entire organizations.
“NC State Women in Technical Leadership provides our First Citizens associates the opportunity to invest in themselves through a highly technically experienced and trained teaching staff,” she said.
“When the time for individualized investment and development is given to associates, they not only return [to the office] more happy and efficient themselves, but their ideas and behaviors percolate across the teams.”
Her enthusiasm for the program is clear in her advice to potential participants:
“Do it! WiTL will invigorate you and equip you to build your best self.“
Why Women in Technical Leadership Matters
The NC State Women in Technical Leadership experience is not just for women—it’s designed for all early-to-mid-career professionals in technical fields seeking greater leadership impact.
The program’s three-day intensive curriculum covers:
Organizational Change Leadership
Strategic Thinking & Decision-Making
Emotional Intelligence & Communication
Career Development Strategies
Work-Life Integration & Executive Coaching
Participants walk away with actionable leadership frameworks, expanded professional networks, and practical tools to navigate complex workplace challenges.
