Recently, nearly 40 women gathered at a stunning Virginia nature preserve on a warm summer morning. Their mission? To reflect, recharge, and connect with other women who are driving the Roanoke-Blacksburg tech-based economy at RBTC’s WoTech Summer Camp.
WoTech Summer Camp, produced by RBTC, is a two-day leadership retreat designed by women in technology for women in technology. The rolling hills and glittering lake of The Preserve at Crooked Run served as a backdrop for insight, rest, and new and deeper relationships for the dynamic women of tech in all stages of their career.
“WoTech Summer Camp is unlike any other event in the region,” said Taylor Spellman, RBTC Director. “It’s part leadership summit, part professional development, and part retreat. Summer Camp provides an avenue that is crucial for fostering networking, mentorship, and professional development, empowering women to continue to thrive and lead in the tech industry. That atmosphere builds deep connections with other like-minded women in the technology community.”
The retreat was anchored by Anna Hall’s insightful keynote that led participants through purpose work—encouraging each participant to identify and lean into their strengths inside of work and without. Joy is the key to unlocking unique purpose in each person, Anna taught. She challenged everyone to “joyfuel” with activities that kept them connected to their unique essence and power. Her keynote was supported by inspiring presentations by Katie Beach, Kimberley Lewis Parsons, and Amy Bayse. The experience was rounded out with refreshing outdoor offerings, including sunrise yoga, hiking, evening socials around a campfire, and even the spontaneous dance party or two!
“The women at Summer Camp are dynamic and inspiring, from early-career professionals to veterans of tech” said Verge President Erin Burcham. “The two-day experience facilitates connection like nothing else. You gain so much more than a network; you build a community here.”
WoTech is an active community within RBTC that meets regularly throughout the year. Short for “Women in Technology,” WoTech was developed to carve out a welcoming space for the unique experiences of women navigating the tech industry.
Summer Camp is the flagship event for WoTech but there are plenty of events and ways to get involved throughout the year. From the virtual Morning Jolt, to the dynamic Power Hour, check out their calendar of events to see how you can get involved as a female in tech or as an ally!
