WOMEN IN TECH BLOG SERIES: EMBRACING CHALLENGES, LEARNING LESSONS, AND STANDING OUT WITH CONFIDENCE

vertosoft and emergent

Written By: Lydia Acosta Whitlow, Partner Channel Manager, Emergent, LLC

Lydia Acosta Whitlow headshot

Lydia Acosta Whitlow is the Partner Channel Manager at Emergent, LLC, bringing over 11 years of experience in the Technology Resell Industry. She started her career as an Account Manager, supporting the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) across various resellers. As her career progressed, Lydia expanded her skill set in Business Development, refining her ability to communicate effectively with teams and individuals at all organizational levels.

Her transition to an Account Executive role sparked her passion for the Channel Community, where she could leverage her sales expertise to navigate complex contracts, forge strong partnerships, and gain a deep understanding of the sales cycle. This shift marked a pivotal moment in Lydia’s professional journey.

The vision I had for myself required me to take bold steps—sometimes two at a time. It’s both a blessing and a challenge that so many people are drawn to this fast-paced, ever-evolving industry. From the IT solutions we provide to the dynamic needs of our customers, the landscape is always shifting. To succeed, I knew I had to push myself beyond the usual pace.

I started my career later than most, with neither a degree nor prior experience. What I did have, though, was a fierce competitive drive. Failure is an inevitable part of growth, and early on, my lack of experience meant I encountered it—often. In hindsight, there are lessons I wish I had learned earlier, and I’m now committed to sharing those insights with others.

Lessons Learned


Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to meet some remarkable people who imparted valuable advice.

  • Lesson 1: Research before asking a question. It demonstrates your resourcefulness and initiative, and it’s sure to earn you some brownie points.
  • Lesson 2: Get involved and stay curious. Learn about different areas of the company and how everything fits together. The most engaged people—those who immerse themselves in the process—are the ones who learn the fastest and stand out.
  • Lesson 3: Always try to bring a solution when presenting a problem. Even if it’s just an idea, it shows forward thinking, and it’s a great way to develop a business mindset.

I remember attending a “Women in Technology” session at a conference with a coworker and friend. The session began with a powerful line: “We women can do what men do, but in heels.” For me, the takeaway is this: In a sea of suits, let’s stand out and shine—even if it means taking two steps at a time. Confidence is key.