The Hardest Transition of My Career
Over twenty years ago, with my degree in Geography in my pocket, I packed my bags and moved to the States.
I left my home, family, and friends behind in search of something bigger. My English wasn’t excellent, my US geography knowledge was limited, and I knew the software was different from what I used in the past.
But I was sure I wanted to continue my journey as a cartographer. Map-making was my dream, my passion, and my love.
Starting as an intern, my journey was anything but easy.
I moved from internship to Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technician, specialist, and analyst, and every time I made a step forward, I was still searching for more. I learned from everything and everyone. I saw what the software could do and how underutilized it was. I saw the missed opportunities, and I was ready to step up and take the lead.
I decided I wanted to become the voice of GIS and I wanted to become a leader!
The path wasn't clear, and the transition from a technical role to a leadership position seemed daunting.
The questions were coming toward me faster than I could answer them: I want to grow my career - how do I do that? I want to make a difference - what steps do I need to take? I need to gain leadership skills - what education do I need to have to be successful?
With each question, I was battling fears of inadequacy, rejection, and lack of support.
Ultimately, through a lot of trial and error, ups and downs, wins and losses, I was able to make that big leap from technician to leader, now serving as Director of Information Technology and Leadership Development.
And what I've found since then is that I am not alone in feeling all of those fears and uncertainties.
Each and every day, I see and speak to talented, hard-working, ambitious technicians in my field who have a passion for leadership themselves but struggle with finding the shortest path to get there.
That's why I've decided to dedicate my next chapter to helping others. Today, I am a coach who specializes in guiding technicians on their journey to becoming leaders. My mission is to help individuals navigate the complexities of career growth, develop their leadership skills, and achieve their full potential.
If you're ready to take that leap from technician to leader,
I'm here to help you every step of the way.
Hi. I’m Izabela Miller
Izabela is an accomplished and results-driven professional with over 18 years of experience in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Information Technology (IT), and Leadership and Organizational Development. With a deep understanding of both the technical and strategic aspects of GIS and IT, Izabela has consistently demonstrated the ability to manage and enhance complex projects, develop strategic plans, and lead cross-functional teams to successful outcomes.
Throughout her career, she managed enterprise business systems, overseeing the growth of business solutions, strategy, governance, development, and support of internal tools and technology solutions. She played a crucial role in analyzing user requirements, implementing solutions aligned with organizational goals, and driving standardization, automation, and integration of business processes across various divisions.
In addition to her technical prowess, Izabela has a strong background in leadership development. She has created custom leadership development programs, facilitated workshops and training sessions, and conducted needs assessments to identify skill gaps and development opportunities. By collaborating with senior leaders and gathering feedback, she has continuously improved program outcomes, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and cultural values.
Izabela holds two Master’s Degrees—one in Geography and another in Public Administration. This educational background, combined with extensive professional experience, has provided them with a profound understanding of the geospatial field and the ability to lead comprehensive projects effectively.
She has presented at various conferences, including the 2024 Esri User Conference during the ESRI GIS Managers Summit, and has been actively involved in local GIS events. Her commitment to professional development and community involvement is evident in their active participation and leadership in these events.
Passionate about making a difference in communities through geospatial solutions, Izabela now supports others who desire to help others on a similar journey, from being a technician to assuming a leadership role.
