Elaine Montilla

New York

Contributor at Forbes

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Articles

The Future of Work: Why Human Skills Will Lead in an AI-Driven World

Sep 30, 2024 | 5xminority.com | Elaine Montilla

As we stand on the precipice of a new technological era dominated by artificial intelligence and automation, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the dizzying pace of change. Headlines proclaim the rise of robots, the automation of jobs, and the potential obsolescence of human workers. Yet, amidst this technological revolution, one profound truth emerges: the future of work is fundamentally, irrevocably human.
The State of Latinas in Corporate America

Jul 7, 2024 | 5xminority.com | Elaine Montilla

Lean In‘s first-ever report on the state of Latinas in corporate America reveals significant challenges and underrepresentation, with Latinas experiencing the steepest drop from entry-level to C-suite positions. The report outlines actionable steps for companies to support Latina advancement, including tailored anti-bias training, improved recruitment efforts, and enhanced mentorship programs.
Beyond the Cap and Gown: Key Advice for New Graduates

May 19, 2024 | 5xminority.com | Elaine Montilla

Graduation is a milestone achievement, but it’s just the beginning of an exciting journey. As you transition from student life to the professional world, here are ten pieces of advice that reflect my experiences and insights to guide you on your path to success. 1. Embrace Lifelong LearningYour formal education may be complete, but the real learning starts now. In a rapidly evolving world, staying current is crucial.
Beyond the Glass Ceiling: Confronting the Glass Cliff in Tech Industry Leadership

Apr 15, 2024 | 5xminority.com | Elaine Montilla

The tech industry continues to grapple with gender equality. While 2022 witnessed a record number of women in technical roles, these professionals still confront the daunting ‘glass cliff.’ This term describes the precarious practice of appointing women to leadership positions predominantly during times of organizational crisis or underperformance.
Moving Beyond the 'Nice Girl' Narrative

Dec 2, 2023 | 5xminority.com | Elaine Montilla

For too long, the narrative of being ‘nice’ has dictated the paths available to women, both personally and professionally. Rooted in age-old traditions and deeply ingrained patriarchy, this expectation has subtly, yet powerfully, shaped the way women are perceived and how they perceive themselves. From the way we communicate to the jobs we aspire to, the ‘niceness’ norm has often kept us confined to lower-paying roles, away from the C-suite, and out of the history books.
The Broken Rung: A Silent Barrier to Women’s Ascent to the C-Suite

Nov 12, 2023 | 5xminority.com | Elaine Montilla

In my years navigating the tech world, from being an IT professional to serving as a CIO and now CTO, I’ve encountered numerous challenges and triumphs. These experiences have been instrumental in shaping not just my career, but also my worldview, particularly concerning Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). One issue that has continually surfaced, almost like a relentless echo, is what we commonly refer to as “the broken rung” on the corporate ladder.
Letting Go: Wisdom from a Falling Leaf

Oct 29, 2023 | 5xminority.com | Elaine Montilla

Background: Sitting in my cabin out in the country this weekend, I’ve been watching the leaves change colors and fall off the trees. It’s amazing how they just let go and drift to the ground without any fuss. It got me thinking about how we, as people, often struggle with changes in our lives, like starting a new job or moving to a new place. We hold on tight to what we know instead of just letting things happen. What if we could be more like these leaves?
5 Red Flags Women Should Look for When Considering a New Position in Tech

Sep 30, 2023 | 5xminority.com | Elaine Montilla

The technology sector is rife with both opportunities and challenges for women. Despite the industry’s potential for innovation and career growth, women continue to face systemic barriers, including lower pay, fewer leadership roles, and higher attrition rates. While some organizations are making strides in diversity and inclusion, others remain less welcoming or even hostile to women. In this landscape, vigilance is key when evaluating new career opportunities.
Mujeres, Tecnología y Liderazgo: Un Trío Necesario para el Futuro

Sep 15, 2023 | 5xminority.com | Elaine Montilla

En el ámbito corporativo, la desigualdad de género persiste como un desafío considerable. Aunque hay evidencia sólida que demuestra que las organizaciones con más mujeres en puestos ejecutivos son más rentables, la brecha de género sigue siendo una realidad en muchas empresas. La diversidad y la inclusión no son simples campañas de marketing; son compromisos a largo plazo que requieren esfuerzo constante para desarrollar, mantener y fomentar.
Embracing Humanity in the Age of AI: A Journey towards Psychological Safety

Aug 12, 2023 | 5xminority.com | Elaine Montilla

As we navigate the rise of AI in the tech industry, it’s impossible to ignore the rapid transformations around us. Advanced machines learning from patterns, streamlining processes, and opening avenues for innovation—this isn’t the stuff of science fiction anymore; it’s our reality. However, amidst the allure of AI and automation, there’s an essential element we can’t afford to overlook—the human factor. The brilliant minds powering this revolution are what make everything possible.