Kathleen Leach
Sr. MTS, Technology Development & Strategy, Director
T-Mobile US
I work in Industry Forums and Relations, simply put its the development of standards and operational practices that focus on global roaming and interconnectivity of mobile networks. This provides devices and subscribers connectivity to access mobile network services globally.
I get to work with technical and business people in the telecommunications industry from all over the world. Our goal is to develop agreements and consensus on how our networks can work together so our subscribers can use their devices and equipment anywhere in the globe. My work includes travel that allows me to experience different countries and cultures. I think that helps me be a better global citizen and provides me a much broader perspective in my work and life.
Every day is packed with meetings, both global and internal. I spend time reading emails, articles or technical documents to gain insight or better understanding of the impacts. I frequently need to communicate the concepts and relevance to business teams. Plenty of writing - composing or responding to emails, communicating ideas, and seeking help.
My career journey is an example of how you can do multiple things over the course of your career. Your first choice does not have to be your last choice. I started my career as an oncology (cancer) nurse. I handled patient care for well over a decade. All the while, I went back to school for a Bachelor's degree in Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications a Master's degree in Computer Systems Management. I moved from setting up the nursing departments computer systems to running a large IT department. I now work in telecommunications and learned the specifics of my role on the job and on my own. The key is never stop learning and asking questions!
I want to continue to learn and grow while helping teach or inspire others along the way. Spend as much time as I can with my growing family and work on my golf game.
Golf, cooking, reading, spending time with family and friends.
"You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think." - Disney's Pooh's Grand Adventure: The Search for Christopher Robin, Christopher Robin