Women in Consumer Technology (WiCT), an organisation that promotes the advancement of women in the consumer technology industry, has announced that Sylvia Acevedo will deliver the keynote address at its networking reception and luncheon at CEDIA Expo 2024, on Friday, September 6, at 11:30 a.m. Acevedo, a distinguished leader renowned for her accomplishments across diverse sectors and a former rocket scientist with NASA, will share insights gleaned from her career journey.
Now in its 16th year, the event will open with a networking reception featuring a Bloody Mary and Bellini bar, sponsored by DMF Lighting, followed by the luncheon and keynote.
“I couldn’t be more excited to have Sylvia deliver our keynote address at our luncheon as I’ve wanted to have her for years. Her journey embodies the spirit of innovation and perseverance that defines our industry,” said Carol Campbell, founder, WiCT. “Her transformative leadership has not only left an indelible mark on the organidations she’s led, but also has inspired countless individuals to reach for the stars. Her impact extends far beyond the boardroom. Her dedication to public service, particularly in advancing STEM education and empowering young women, serves as a beacon of inspiration for us all.”
Beginning her career as a rocket scientist at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Acevedo’s contributions to the Voyager 2 mission laid the foundation for her career, which has included
Acevedo’s career has been marked by a series of groundbreaking achievements, including executive roles at renowned companies such as Apple, Autodesk, Dell, and IBM. Internationally, she pioneered the deployment of fibre technology networks and played a pivotal role in expanding software distribution across Latin America.
As CEO of the Girl Scouts of the USA from 2016 to 2020, Acevedo spearheaded the organisation’s most significant programme expansion in over a century, introducing 146 new badges and programs in STEM, outdoors, entrepreneurship, and civics. Under her leadership, over 1 million STEM badges were earned by girls across diverse communities. Today, Acevedo serves on the board of directors for two public companies, Qualcomm and Credo Technologies, and two early-stage companies, Quark.ai and Ambri Battery.
Beyond her corporate and nonprofit endeavours, Acevedo is a bestselling author of a memoir, Path to the Stars: My Journey from Girl Scout to Rocket Scientist.
“I am thrilled to join WiCT as the keynote speaker,” said Acevedo. “I look forward to sharing insights from my journey and inspiring attendees to embrace innovation, leadership, and the pursuit of excellence in their own careers.”
Acevedo holds a bachelor’s degree with honours in industrial engineering, from New Mexico State University and is one of the first Hispanics, male or female, to earn a graduate degree in engineering from Stanford University. Attendees of WiCT’s Networking Reception and Luncheon will receive a copy of Acevedo’s memoir.
The WiCT networking reception and luncheon will take place at the Colorado Convention Center — The Four Seasons Ballrooms 2 and 3 — in Denver. Those who are interested may purchase tickets and can learn more about the event here.
