Championing Tech:  The Value of Volunteerism

For November's TECH CONNECT, a month dedicated to gratitude and giving, we’re highlighting three Tech First members who embody the spirit of service and community. Florence Renee Bacote from the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners, Jill Campbell with the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, and Searsa Johnson of CareSource are among our most dedicated volunteers, lending their time and expertise to events like the Girl Scout Cyber Challenge and programs with the Boys and Girls Club in addition to Tech First conferences and events. Their passion for making a difference shines through in every project they touch. We sat down with Bacote, Campbell and Johnson to discuss what motivates their volunteerism and to hear their advice for those looking to get more involved.

Read on to be inspired by their commitment to giving back!

How did you first get involved with Technology First, and what inspired you to start volunteering?

Bacote: I first became involved with Technology First through my employer, Montgomery County, enrollment as an attendee of the annual Tast of IT Conference and then later as a peer member of the Women 4 Tech peer group. I have always believed that volunteering can have a real impact on the lives of others in need of assistance or direction which continues to help me realize that this impact is a part of something bigger than myself.

Campbell: There have been times in my life when I needed guidance or support and found it lacking, which has driven me to volunteer and give back to others. Volunteering offers me the chance to share my skills and expertise in ways that might benefit others and make a positive difference. I believe the knowledge exchanged through volunteering is incredibly valuable—every experience adds to my growth and understanding. Additionally, it’s rewarding to provide time and services to those who may not have access or the means to seek out this support on their own.

What has been the most rewarding part of your volunteer experience?

Bacote: I have really enjoyed giving my time, energy, and knowledge while connecting to others in the Dayton community. I have always enjoyed working with others and making new friends in an environment that promotes growth along with helping others learn and gain professional experience.

Can you share a specific moment or experience that stands out to you during your time volunteering? 

Campbell: Being sought as an expert and leader while I was facilitating a session at Taste of IT!  It was an honor to hear "I was told I needed to meet you."  To be recognized by peers as a knowledgeable leader and, in this instance, to eventually have a job offer from [the volunteer interaction], was quite a satisfying experience!

What makes our volunteer community special, and why do you continue to give your time?

Johnson: Connection. My continued engagement is driven by connecting with the Technology First community and their caring and dedicated staff. It is vital to be part of a community that openly discusses cyber security and evolving technology.

How has volunteering impacted your personal or professional life?

Bacote: Volunteering has helped keep me keen on my communication, project planning, and teamwork skills. It has also helped me to make great connections and meet new people in the Dayton community.

Campbell:  I have been humbled by the amount of expertise I’ve been exposed to and a substantial amount of my diverse knowledge and “career wisdom” has come from the interactions with the people whom I’ve met through volunteering.  Also, it’s about the network – I can sincerely say that ALL – with the exception of TWO connections – on my LinkedIn network are people I’ve met face to face.

What do you see as the future of volunteerism, especially within the technology sector?

Bacote: The future of volunteerism in the technology sector will likely see a significant increase in digital volunteering, where people can use their technical skills remotely as more and more people are working in remote positions and not physically working in buildings in the community.  I still hope there will be individuals who will still want to do “in-person” volunteering.  There will always be a need for tech professionals with specific skills like web development, graphic design, and especially cybersecurity, whose technical knowledge can be more valuable when demonstrating or teaching these ideas in person with ability to give hands-on instruction or experience.  

Campbell: The Dayton area seems to be skipped over in the areas of technology in regard to large events and connection to the surrounding areas. I believe the more volunteerism that occurs, the "louder" we can be, and the more connected Dayton will be.  Dayton is a vast source of technological knowledge and should not miss out on what is happening around us.  Lets all jump on the volunteering band wagon so we can participate in the opportunities that are happening!

What advice would you give to someone who is considering volunteering but hasn’t taken the step yet?

Johnson: What are you waiting for!?! For someone who is a true introvert and struggles with public speaking anxiety, volunteering with Technology First served as a steppingstone in building my confidence. These volunteering opportunities provided me a safe space to practice public speaking, enhance networking skills, and re-connecting with my peers. Sign up now!

As we wrap up this month of gratitude, we’re reminded of the incredible impact that dedicated volunteers like Florence Renee, Jill, and Searsa have on our community. Their stories encourage us all to find ways to give back, connect, and create lasting change.

Here’s to making a difference together!