When she was a child growing up in Poland, Maggie aspired to be a librarian, paleontologist, or actress. A career path in IT didn’t reveal itself until Maggie arrived in the United States. As an ambitious college student, she took computer classes required to fulfill her management information systems degree.
In addition to her responsibilities as a full-time student, she had to learn English as a second language and find employment. True to her can-do spirit, she sacrificed precious hours of sleep to juggle two jobs. Now, Maggie views that trying period of her life as a stepping stone to personal growth.
“This experience molded me into someone who appreciates demanding work, embraces challenges, and can navigate difficult situations and conversations,” she says. “I have no regrets; it shaped the person I am today.”
Maggie began her career as an insurance agent but soon realized she wanted to work in a field aligned with her bachelor’s degree.
“Technology fascinated me with its creativity and innovation,” she says. “Creating something meaningful from lines of code felt powerful and exhilarating.”
Today, she’s Assistant Vice President of IT Engineering at The Hartford, where she’s driven to make a difference within the insurance company and in the broader tech community.
She explains how The Hartford actively nurtures tech talent, and why she founded the business-led Women in Technology program as a networking community open to all employees across the company, prioritizing professional support, growth, advancement, and networking.
What are the core responsibilities of your role? Why does this work appeal to you?
I oversee the company’s platform for providing technology services. I focus on transforming how employees work, emphasizing digital transformation using automation, integration, and machine learning. I also lead a technology resiliency and recovery team.
A technology career motivates me because it combines strategic vision with practical implementation. I can drive innovation while safeguarding our operations. Plus, the dynamic nature of technology keeps me engaged, curious, and motivated.
What I like best about serving in this role is the opportunity to make a positive impact on my colleagues and the organization. It’s fulfilling to see team members grow, develop new skills, and achieve their goals.
I’ve also helped foster a culture of belonging. By prioritizing these values, I’ve seen how unique perspectives and experiences can drive creativity and problem-solving. It’s been rewarding to contribute to an environment where everyone feels they belong and can thrive.
What has helped you succeed?
Having mentors who believed in my potential and provided guidance was crucial. Their support helped me navigate challenges and seize opportunities.
Being part of an inclusive, supportive culture made a significant difference. It gave me the confidence to voice my ideas and take on leadership roles.
Feeling valued and appreciated has been a significant motivator for me. The opportunities to lead various projects and initiatives helped me develop my leadership skills and broaden my experience.
Can you describe what led to the creation of the Women in Technology (WIT) program and what the program offers?
The Hartford’s WIT program was created to provide a supportive community for its members, which includes both men and women..
WIT started with a Lean in Circle pillar and more than 60 members. A Lean In Circle is a small group of people who meet regularly to support each other, learn new skills, and build confidence. Now in its seventh year, WIT has over 1,000 members and has expanded the program to several pillars focused on talent mobility, community, networking, health and well-being, and allyship.
Our program continues to evolve to fit its members and The Hartford’s needs. Even though it’s a well-structured program, we continue to treat it as a startup. We all want to be heard, and we all want to be seen. We want to be part of something bigger than us. That’s what our program gives every single member.
I get pure joy when I talk about WIT. It’s not just about tech; it’s about changing lives. My two daughters beam with pride when I talk about the program. My youngest goes around telling everyone, “Hey, my mom founded and leads this amazing program!”
Why are groups like WIT important resources at the company, and in the tech industry? How has The Hartford’s leadership team supported the group and encouraged its growth?
WIT offers a supportive network, allowing technologists to connect, share experiences, and offer encouragement. This sense of contributes to growth and innovation.
The company has provided resources to support WIT, including dedicated time and access to facilities. This support enables the group to organize impactful events and programs that benefit technologists across the organization. Leaders actively participate in WIT events, offering their insights, sharing experiences, and providing mentorship. Their involvement demonstrates a commitment to fostering an inclusive culture and shows that a range of voices are valued at all levels of the organization. The backing and encouragement from our company’s leadership team have been key to the group’s success, helping to create a more inclusive and empowering environment for everyone.
What advice do you have for those striving to pursue a career in IT?
Focus on building a solid foundation of technical skills. Find mentors and allies who will offer guidance and support. Look for opportunities. Commit to continuous learning; technology is always evolving. Network because networking isn’t only about finding job opportunities but also about building relationships and learning from others. Embrace challenges. Share your ideas and advocate for yourself. Support each other—we’re stronger together. Be resilient and stay focused on your goals. Learn from setbacks.
If you’re striving to pursue a career in IT, my biggest piece of advice is to believe in yourself and your abilities. The tech industry can be challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding.
