SIM Charlotte – President’s Message (2024-25)
Thank you for visiting the SIM Charlotte website and learning more about SIM Charlotte and our benefit to the Charlotte IT and STEM Communities.
The Society of Information Management (SIM), originally named The Society for Management Information Systems (SMIS) was created in 1968, following a discussion between Robert Head, Software Resource Group, and Herb Schwartz, United States Atomic Energy Commission. They noted that “current professional societies did not emphasize the managerial aspects of computing enough nor did they serve as a good communications mechanism between data processing managers and executive managers”.[1]
SIM is a professional organization for Technology Executives and Industry Leaders. There are 35 Chapters across the US and 1 Chapter in Canada. The Charlotte Chapter was founded in 2010.
Why join SIM Charlotte?
- Connection - SIM Charlotte allows you to connect with Technology Executives and Industry Leaders across the area and the United States. Expanding your network offers new ideas, shares best practices, and creates relationships based on shared interests.
- Leadership - SIM Leadership Institute offers programs to grow leadership skills for you and your team.
- Giving - SIM pays it forward by offering mentorship opportunities and raising funds focused on STEM Initiatives. In the Charlotte area, we have given over 100k back to the Community through STEM non-profits, enabling the growth of the next generation of Technology Leaders.
What are our events?
Quarterly Events
Networking with SIM Members and Sponsors. The event may include a speaker, panel, or discussion for a portion of the time. Usually held after work hours (5:30-7:30 pm).
CIO Enclaves
Quarterly dinner, by invitation, for CIOs. Allows CIOs to network with peers while enjoying a conversation on the latest topics of interest.
SIM Women
Networking and discussion topics focused on supporting and encouraging Women in Technology. Open to all members.
Annual Golf Event
This is our largest event and it brings in revenue to enable the Giving portion of our mission. We pair Executives and Sponsors for a fun-filled day on the Ballantyne Country Club Golf Course and provide a cocktail hour following the Golfing to hand out awards and share key information. The 2025 Tournament will be held on April 28th.
HMG Executive IT Leadership Summit
Local and national leaders share knowledge and thoughts on hot topics: AI, Security, Data Analytics, etc. SIM Charlotte suggests topics and local experts. It’s a great place to network and listen or participate in thought-provoking discussions.
Members In Transition (MIT)
Forum where IT Leaders either in transition, considering new opportunities, or wanting to support those in transition get together to share information to assist with finding new opportunities.
My personal journey started at an HMG Executive Summit, where I met SIM Members who encouraged me to attend meetings. I was impressed by how engaging the group was and how easily I felt comfortable talking with other local IT Executives. After joining SIM, I was asked to co-chair the SIM Women group. During my first year in leading this group, the world was hit by COVID and our in-person events suddenly became on-line events. In my opinion, the SIM Women group grew closer that year since many networking opportunities stalled in the wake of COVID.
Since joining SIM, I have also been part of the Members in Transition (MIT) group. I’m thrilled to say that each opportunity I have been offered has been a result of people in my Charlotte network. For me, SIM has been a game-changer. After spending 30 years at 1 Company and having minimal network outside the Company, I have now expanded my professional network and friends through SIM, which has enriched both my work and personal life.
For me, the giving back to the Charlotte STEM Community is important. I have had the honor of seeing how SIMs donated dollars provide technology services for children and adults in the Charlotte area. Technology is and will continue to be everywhere in the future and all children need to have access to training. I love that we are paying it forward and educating the next generation in technology. Since SIM Charlotte started in 2010, we have provided over $950K to the Charlotte STEM Community!!
Please support SIM by following us on LinkedIn, sponsoring SIM Events and/or joining our SIM Charlotte team! https://www.linkedin.com/company/society-for-information-management-charlotte-chapter
[1]Wikipedia - Society for Information Management https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Society_for_Information_Management