Priyanka Patil’s Path to the 2024 Women in Tech Awards
Priyanka Patil's passion for technology has been the driving force behind her journey to becoming a 2024 Women of the Year finalist in the young professional category. From her early studies in biomedical engineering to her current role as a Tech Analyst at Accenture, her path has been filled with growth, learning, and a relentless drive to make an impact. Each twist and turn has shaped her career, reflecting her dedication to advancing in the tech world while collaborating with others along the way.
Initially drawn to biomedical engineering, Priyanka believed medicine was the best way to make a difference in people’s lives. However, she soon realized that technology also offered a powerful platform for positive change. Transitioning into the tech field, she found she could impact communities and industries in meaningful ways, proving that innovation and service go hand in hand, even outside of healthcare. With a growing interest in management and technology, she pivoted to Management Information Systems (MIS), perfectly combining her technical aptitude and business acumen. She first became involved with Women in Technology (WIT), a nonprofit organization empowering women and girls in science, technology, engineering, the arts, and math (STEAM).
"I got introduced to WIT during Covid," Priyanka recalls. "It became a support group for me. I loved the family atmosphere and the ability to make new friends and connections." WIT provided Priyanka with a personal and professional network that fostered her growth.
Accenture’s Innovation Hub at Tech Square is part of its global network of innovation centers. It plays a crucial role in addressing business challenges by integrating technology, industry expertise, and digital transformation.
She began her journey with the WIT Campus at UGA as Director of Marketing for a year before being elected President. Knowing the importance of giving back, she embraced the opportunity to lead a team of nine talented women. Together, they organized the Lavender Gala, helping 50 UGA students secure jobs with MBB firms, Big 4 tech companies, and startups. The event raised awareness for domestic violence through a fashion show and collected over $1,000 for Project Safe in Athens. This milestone was a testament to the power of collaboration.
Her transition into the corporate world wasn’t linear. Before joining Accenture’s office here in Tech Square, Priyanka honed her communication and problem-solving skills in a completely different field — sales at Pinterest. The blend of technical and client-facing roles has shaped her multifaceted approach to work, allowing her to excel in the consulting space at Accenture.
As a Technology Analyst at Accenture, Priyanka is passionate about the advantages of hybrid work, which allows her to balance her personal and professional life. “I’m a type-A personality, so I love being able to face and talk to clients in person,” she shared. “But hybrid work also gives me the flexibility I need for a better work/life balance.” This balance is essential for Priyanka, highlighting how technology can foster more flexible and fulfilling work environments. While at Accenture, Patil continues her involvement with WIT, traveling to give talks, volunteering, and organizing. She will be traveling back to Athens, Georgia, to speak on behalf of WIT in the coming weeks.
Her nomination as a finalist in the Women in Tech Awards is a testament to her leadership and commitment to WIT’s cause. Priyanka reflects on discovering she was a top 3 finalist: "When I received the email, I felt incredibly honored and grateful. It reaffirmed the direction of my career and gave me a renewed sense of motivation. Being recognized alongside such talented women is truly inspiring, and it encourages me to continue pushing for greater impact in the field."
The Women in Tech Awards, organized by WIT, will be held tomorrow, October 24, 2024, at the Georgia Aquarium. The event celebrates women who have made significant contributions to the STEAM fields. Priyanka’s nomination in the young professionals category places her among Georgia's brightest and most dedicated.