In this episode of Tech Together, host Shannon Seaver welcomes Allison Barman, Executive Director of Genesys Works Twin Cities, to discuss her journey from mechanical engineer to non-profit executive.

Allison shares her experiences working at a tech startup, pursuing business school, and how her role at McKinsey & Company with the Itasca Project helped shape her career towards community and economic development.

The conversation highlights the impactful work of Genesys Works in providing internships to high school students, the importance of mentoring and networking, and the challenges facing non-profits in today's economic landscape.

Allison also emphasizes the critical need for diversity and inclusion in tech and shares inspirational success stories of students who have transformed their futures through internships. The episode concludes with rapid-fire questions exploring Allison's personal interests and advice for those entering the tech field.

Timestamps:00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:31 Allison's Career Journey01:43 Genesys Works and Its Impact05:07 The Value of Internships07:33 Challenges and Support for Interns14:42 Importance of Mentoring21:24 The Importance of Mentorship23:22 Transitioning from Engineering to Non-Profit25:43 Inspiring Outcomes from Genesys Works27:59 Challenges and Future Goals for Genesys Works31:17 The Role of Diversity and Inclusion in Tech34:57 Reflections and Rapid Fire Questions