Precisely Women in Technology: Meet Melissa Rieckhoff

At Precisely, recognizing and celebrating women in technology is extremely important. The Precisely Women in Technology (PWIT) Program was first established to build a network for women in the company to support one another and share opportunities. As the program has grown, women across the organization now leverage it to meet new women, learn about new roles, offer mentorship opportunities, offer support, and much more. Each month, a woman from the program is featured to highlight their experience as a woman in tech and to share their advice with other women in the field. Continue reading to learn more about Melissa Rieckhoff, Sales Enablement Manager, who’s been in the industry for over 25 years.

Why did you choose to pursue a career in technology?

Regardless of what industry I’m in, I enjoy learning and helping others. I’ve been fortunate enough to have had the opportunity to serve in distinct roles during my career to continue to develop myself professionally.

Who has been your greatest professional mentor? What’s one thing you have learned from them?

It’s difficult to name just one because I’ve had the privilege of learning from so many wonderful mentors in my family, education, and professional colleagues. One of the things that has always stuck with me is to learn something new every day. Continue to be curious!

What’s the biggest risk you took in your career? What was the reward?

Years ago, my husband and I moved to pursue career advancements. We were able to meet new friends and colleagues which enriched our lives. We were also able to learn more about different regions of the country and enjoy new experiences. The risk was very much worth all the rewards.

As a woman, what challenges have you faced in the technology industry? How have you overcome them?

I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with many diverse colleagues and I have many strong, outstanding women in my family. Being surrounded by these incredible people has always given me confidence. And while it’s not related to being a woman in tech, one challenge is the fast pace of change, and technology is evolving rapidly. I’ve continued to learn and grow my own knowledge to help me along the way.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? How do you apply it to your personal and professional life?

A good piece of advice I’ve received was to keep moving forward. We all have stumbles and setbacks, but it is important to pull yourself up and keep pressing on. Facing adversity in work will happen to almost everyone so it’s good to remind yourself to continue moving and trying new things.

Also, be a sponge; learn as much as you can from your educational opportunities and from work experiences and colleagues.

As a successful woman in technology, what’s one thing you do to pay it forward and advocate for other women in the field?

I volunteer with a financial literacy program to help teach people, and specifically women, about basic financial skills and maximizing employer benefit resources.

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