Laura Williams: A Technology Career That Truly Makes a Difference in the World

Laura Williams joined the U.S. Department of State as a Foreign Service Information Management Specialist (IMS) in 2001. At the time of this interview, the position was Information Management Specialist (IMS). The newly announced career path of Diplomatic Technology Officer (DTO) reflects the evolving role of information technology professionals in the Foreign Service. Laura shares why she joined the Foreign Service and talks about her most memorable experiences that illustrate how the DTO role supports diplomacy and makes a difference in the world. Plus, she gives advice to students who are applying for the Foreign Affairs Information Technology (FAIT) Fellowship.

Laura has worked to keep the Department’s sensitive data secure, harnessed innovative technologies to amplify the Department’s messaging, led TechCamps to strengthen civil society organizations and grow women-owned businesses, helped U.S. citizens escape human and natural disasters, advocated for better knowledge management practices and collaboration technology, and developed data literacy training.

To read the article from this interview, click here.

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