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Black Technology
Founder/CEO
Lori Mitchell is the Founder and CEO of Black Women in Technology (BWiT), an organization she established in late 2014.1 Her LinkedIn username is lorimitchellbwit.2
Background and Education
Lori holds a Bachelor's Degree in Management Information Systems from Pennsylvania State University's Capital College, which she earned between 2000 and 2002.2 She also has an Associate's Degree in Respiratory Care from HACC, Central Pennsylvania's Community College, obtained between 1991 and 1996.2
Professional Journey
Lori has been a tech professional since 1996, starting her career as a self-taught systems analyst while working as a Respiratory Therapist.1 Her experience includes serving as a Director of IT Applications.1
Founding Black Women in Technology
In late 2014, after moving to Los Angeles, Lori noticed a lack of Black women at local tech events.1 To address this gap, she created BWiT as a Meetup group to share event information and ensure Black women in tech knew they would have familiar company at these events.1 The initiative quickly grew into a vibrant community of over 500 Black women, ranging in age from 20 to 67, who are passionate about shaping the future of technology.1
Mission and Achievements
BWiT's mission is to teach, engage, and serve, dedicated to furthering the presence of women of color throughout the technology sector.2 The organization provides a supportive platform for African-American women and other women of color in tech, offering networking opportunities, learning experiences, and a space to celebrate their achievements.1
Additional Roles and Initiatives
In 2015, Lori became a Community Leader for the Anita Borg Institute's dotLocal initiative.1 She has been involved in various panels, hackathons, and the first GHC conference with ABI.Local.1 In October 2018, BWiT hosted its first NW Summit in Seattle at Microsoft's campus, attracting over 300 women and covering diverse topics.1
Lori Mitchell's work with BWiT has established her as a significant figure in promoting diversity and inclusion in the technology industry, particularly for Black women and women of color.
