ABQ Times

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Two remarkable women from Sandia National Laboratories have been recognized with the prestigious 2024 New Mexico Women in Tech Award by the New Mexico Technology Council. The award celebrates women who excel in the tech industry, driving innovation, and inspiring others to pursue careers in technology.

Mary Monson, Senior Manager for Technology Partnerships and Business Development at Sandia, has been instrumental in advancing the lab's technology transfer efforts. Colleagues praise Monson for her passion and drive, with Technology Partnership Manager Joel Sikora stating, "I’ve never met anyone with her level of passion and drive." Monson's journey at Sandia began unconventionally, with her sending her resume to the lab without a specific job posting. Over 25 years later, Monson has played a pivotal role in expanding Sandia's tech transfer division, transforming it into what it is today.

Reflecting on her career in the tech industry, Monson expressed pride in Sandia's progress, stating, "We started with just Cooperative Research and Development Agreements and licenses but have creatively established new programs along the way like the Entrepreneurial Separation to Transfer Technology program." She also expressed gratitude for the recognition, saying, "It’s a privilege to be part of such an impressive group of women leaders."

Mara Schindelholz, Principal Research and Development Staff Member at Sandia, is another recipient of the Women in Tech Award. With 15 years of experience in creating and commercializing new technologies, Schindelholz has been a driving force in developing innovative solutions at Sandia and beyond. She highlighted the importance of encouraging more women to pursue careers in tech, emphasizing the need for greater representation and support in the field.

Schindelholz, currently on assignment at the National Science Foundation, is dedicated to promoting female entrepreneurship and tech innovation. She expressed her honor at being recognized for her contributions and shared her passion for leveraging technology for societal benefit, stating, "I love seeing new technologies created for the betterment of society."

The New Mexico Technology Council's recognition of Mary Monson and Mara Schindelholz underscores the vital role of women in advancing technology and fostering a culture of innovation in the industry. These two Sandians stand as inspirational figures, paving the way for future generations of women in tech.