Tech Talent Spotlight Series: Elaine Montilla

Elaine Montilla is a prominent figure in the technology sector, serving as Chief Technology Officer for US Schools and making significant strides as a diversity and inclusion advocate. With over 20 years of experience in IT, she has dedicated her career to creating inclusive environments that reflect the diverse communities they serve. As the founder of 5xminority, Elaine emphasizes the importance of empowering women and minorities in tech, advocating for creating representation and mentorship opportunities.

A celebrated speaker, Elaine has delivered impactful TED talks, including 'The Value of Mentoring Women and Minorities in Tech',' in which she highlights the necessity of diverse voices in innovation and leadership. Her work addresses systemic barriers faced by underrepresented groups and promotes the expansion of STEM education to ensure equitable opportunities for all children.

As a Latina and member of the LGBTQ+ community, Elaine brings a unique perspective to her advocacy, inspiring others through her authentic approach and commitment to social change. Her influence extends beyond her professional roles; she actively engages with audiences to challenge conventional narratives around diversity and inclusion, making her a sought-after speaker at conferences and events focused on equity in the workplace.

Please introduce yourself, your background, and your current roles and responsibilities.

My name is Elaine Montilla, and I currently serve as the Chief Technology Officer for US School Assessment at Pearson. With over 20 years of experience in technology, I've dedicated my career to driving innovation and creating inclusive digital solutions. I'm also the founder of 5xminority, an initiative focused on empowering women and underrepresented communities in tech, and I'm passionate about advocating for diversity and inclusivity in leadership roles.

As a Latina woman in tech, you've overcome numerous challenges to reach your current position as CIO and later CTO. Can you share a pivotal moment in your career that shaped your leadership style and approach to diversity in the workplace?

A pivotal moment in my career was realizing the power of embracing vulnerability and authenticity as strengths rather than weaknesses. Early on, I often found myself being the only woman or person of color in the room, struggling with imposter syndrome. One particular moment came when I spoke up about a solution I believed in, even though I feared being judged. The positive response and the realization that diverse perspectives are not just welcomed but necessary shaped my leadership style. I now lead with a focus on inclusivity, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued, including those from underrepresented groups. This moment solidified my commitment to fostering diversity in every team I lead.

You've been a strong advocate for mentorship, especially for women and minorities in tech. Can you describe a mentoring relationship that significantly impacted your career, and how has it influenced your mentoring practices? 

One of my most significant mentoring relationships was with a former mentor who encouraged me to embrace my unique perspective as a Latina and a woman in tech. Mr. Campbell didn't just provide guidance on navigating the professional landscape and helped me overcome the self-doubt that often comes with being in underrepresented spaces. He challenged me to see my background as an asset rather than a barrier, which gave me the confidence to pursue other leadership roles. This experience shaped my mentoring approach, where I now focus on helping others develop their technical skills, embrace their authentic selves, and recognize the value they bring to the table, especially those from marginalized communities.

Your company, 5xminority.com, aims to empower women and minorities. What inspired you to start this initiative, and how do you balance this work with your role as CTO?

I was inspired to start 5xminority because of my own journey navigating the challenges of being both a woman and a minority in the tech industry. Throughout my career, I noticed how underrepresented groups often faced similar barriers, from lack of mentorship to limited opportunities for growth. I wanted to create a platform that empowers these communities and advocates for change within organizations. Balancing this work with my role as CTO requires prioritization and discipline, but I see both roles as profoundly connected.

Your career progression from helpdesk support to CTO is remarkable. What advice would you give to a young group of women, especially those from underrepresented groups, who aspire to have leadership roles in tech?

My advice to young women, especially those from underrepresented groups, is to believe in your worth and embrace the unique perspective you bring to the table. Be bold and take up space, speak up, and advocate for yourself. Focus on building your technical and leadership skills, but also seek mentors who can guide and support you along the way. Resilience is key—there will be challenges, but each one is an opportunity to grow. Most importantly, stay authentic to who you are because your diversity is your strength, and the tech industry needs your voice and contributions to thrive.

You've emphasized the importance of continuous learning in tech. How do you stay updated with the latest technological advancements? 

Staying updated with the latest technological advancements is essential in my role, and I approach it with a mix of formal and informal learning. I regularly attend industry conferences and webinars and am an active member of several professional networks where I engage with other tech leaders. I also read articles, research papers, and thought leadership pieces on emerging trends. Additionally, I'm a big advocate of learning from my teams—encouraging a culture of knowledge sharing keeps me in tune with new tools and innovations. Finally, continuous learning also means staying curious and open-minded, continually seeking ways to adapt and improve.

A huge thank you to Elaine for dedicating your time to this interview; your insights and experiences are remarkable, and we are grateful you allowed us to give you this platform. If you would like to find out more information about Elaine, then head to her LinkedIn profile here.

If you, like Elaine, have an inspiring story to tell about Technology or IT Infrastructure, please contact us today so we can share your story.