As we step into 2025, I find myself reflecting on an incredible 2024 filled with growth, milestones, and memorable moments, both professionally and personally. This year has been transformative in many ways, as I navigated new challenges, embraced emerging technologies, and pursued opportunities to learn and give back.
Professional Highlights
Starting Fresh at Hello Alice
2024 began with an exciting new chapter in my career, taking on the role of Vice President of Engineering at Hello Alice. Transitioning into this position brought its share of challenges and rewards, pushing me to grow as a leader and expand my technical expertise. Never in the past have I felt the pressure to do more with less. Fortunately, I have an amazing team and great leadership which helped jumpstart this new role.
Deep Dive Into AI
One of my key focuses this year was immersing myself in artificial intelligence, a field that continues to shape the future of technology. I completed the “AI for Leaders” course at the University of Texas at Austin, gaining hands-on experience, practical insights into use cases, and a solid foundation for understanding what it takes to implement AI systems effectively. Beyond the classroom, I’ve incorporated AI into both my professional projects and personal endeavors, finding innovative ways to improve workflows and decision-making processes. At Hello Alice, we completed our first prototype and are in the process of our production roll out which will occur later in 2025.
Expanding My Marketing Toolkit
This year also brought opportunities to broaden my knowledge in areas like email marketing, target marketing, and Salesforce Commerce Cloud. I delved deeper into customer data platforms (CDPs) and segmentation, gaining a better grasp of how to tailor marketing strategies to specific audiences. These skills have already proven valuable in my current role and will undoubtedly continue to be assets in the years ahead.
Mentorship and Giving Back
Mentorship has always been a passion of mine, and 2024 provided many opportunities to share my knowledge with friends, family, and former colleagues. The last few years have been very turbulent for may in the tech sector. Not too long ago it seemed tech professionals could almost name their price. Now, many have dealt with layoffs, career changes, and needing to level up or up skill to stay relevant. Whether it was offering career advice, coaching on technical skills, or helping others navigate professional challenges, I’ve relished the chance to pay it forward and support others in their journeys.
Taking the Stage
In October, I had the honor of speaking at the AI Summit in New York City. Sharing insights and engaging with industry peers at such a prestigious event was a highlight of the year and a reminder of how far I’ve come in my career. The conference it self was a blast and I learned many new things (as did many of us). Looking forward to digging in deeper into the world of AI in the years to come.
Laying the Groundwork for New Ventures
This year, I’ve also begun exploring a few new business ideas. While they’re still in the early stages, I’m optimistic about their potential and look forward to nurturing them further in 2025.
Personal Milestones
Bucket List Adventures
2024 wasn’t all about work. I’m thrilled to have checked off not one, but two bucket-list items this year: watching the NC State Wolfpack play in a Final Four tournament game and visiting the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon. That trip combined two of my passions, NCSU Basketball and the great outdoors, and created memories I’ll treasure forever.
Looking Ahead
As I close out this year, I’m filled with gratitude for the experiences and opportunities that shaped 2024. From professional achievements to personal milestones, it’s been a year of growth and discovery. I’m excited to carry the lessons I’ve learned and the momentum I’ve built into 2025. Here’s to another year of learning, creating, and making an impact.