Outreach & Engagement

Redefining Success

Redefining Success explores what it means to rebuild a career—and an identity—through personal experience transitioning from a decade-long role in healthcare as a physician assistant to software engineering. This session examines the emotional and professional challenges of starting over, including imposter syndrome, non-linear career paths, and navigating technology spaces where women remain underrepresented. Through candid storytelling, the session highlights lessons learned during career reinvention, barriers encountered in the tech industry, and practical strategies for self-advocacy and resilience. Participants will be encouraged to question traditional definitions of success and to develop a more flexible, values-driven approach to career growth that supports both personal fulfillment and long-term impact in engineering and technology fields.

Presented at Empower 2026 at Penn State University 2/2026

Women In Tech: Where Are They?

This talk examines women, or the lack of, in technology, why women make up such a small percentage of the technology field, and how we can improve this.

Recent research shows that women are leaving the technology field at alarming rates. Even with more women entering the pipeline, the amount of women in the technology field has not increased. This talk dives into the research that suggests why this is and likely contributing factors.

As well as, how we can improve the presence of women in technology and management roles. From hiring practices, to culture implementation, and promotion considerations, this talk provides ways for companies to improve their outcomes in hiring, retaining, and advancing women’s presence in technology to advance us all.

Presented at: Heartland Developers Conference 8/2024, Lincoln.Code() 1/2025, Nebraska Women in Tech Summit 3/2025, Nebraska.Code() 7/2025

Alli & Christian Code

Alli & Christian Code is a dynamic video series where we share our combined expertise in software development, blending two unique perspectives: Alli’s journey from healthcare to tech and Christian’s extensive experience in the field. Together, we explore the art of high-quality coding, smart software design, and the importance of nurturing a positive company culture. Join us as we tackle complex topics, share practical tips, and foster a community of continuous learning and improvement.

Alli & Christian Code

    • Diversity Champion Award Nominee, 3/2026

    • Rising Start of the Year Award Nominee, 3/2025

    • Nebraska Women in STEM Spotlight Profile, 3/2024

    • UNL Design Studio Industry Coach

    • Girls Code Lincoln, Club Facilitator

    • Nebraska Women in STEM, Lincoln planning committee member

    • Panelist for UNL Software Engineering Mentorship and Leadership class Gender Issues Panel, 12/2025

    • Keynote Speaker for UNL 2025 Women in Science Conference, 4/2025

    • ‘Lightning Decision Jam - A Tool for Quickly Finding Your Next Priority’ at the UNL Raikes School Design Studio, 2/2025

    • ‘A Day in the Life of a Software Engineer’ presenter for Intro to Software Engineering Class at Doane University, 8/2024

    • UNL Women in STEM Annual Conference Presenter, 4/2024