Kenyatta Powers-Rucker

Kenyatta is a true trailblazer in the tech industry with over 25 years of experience serving the public in state government at the Maryland Department of Human Services. Rising from a Desktop Support Specialist to the first African American female Chief Information Officer, she's a living testament to the power of leadership and perseverance.

Passionate about diversity and inclusion, Kenyatta is on a mission to expose youth and underrepresented individuals to technology and leadership opportunities. As an award-winning keynote speaker, mentor, and coach, she shares her journey to inspire individuals, women and minorities, guiding them on their career paths in leadership and Information Technology.

Kenyatta's commitment to bridging the gender gap led her to found "Taste of Technology," a remarkable program aimed at introducing the underrepresented community to various tech careers, role models, and opportunities. Through hands-on STEM challenges and workshops, students can delve into cyber security, coding, gaming, application development, and more, all taught by IT professionals. This initiative fosters innovation and helps pave the way for the next generation of tech professionals.

In addition to her influential work in the tech world, Kenyatta is a visionary author, having penned five best-selling books, including "Ladies in Tech: Changing the Face of Technology." This anthology project empowers women in the tech industry, providing them with the tools to advance their careers and thrive in the field.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Kenyatta is a leader in her church, actively serving in various ministries. Her love for God and commitment to empowering and supporting community development initiatives have made her an invaluable presence in her community.