Executive Bio (CIO – Sweetmore Bakeries)
Stephanie Bowles is the Chief Information Officer at Sweetmore Bakeries, where she leads enterprise technology strategy to support growth, operational efficiency, and innovation. With over 35 years of experience in information technology, she brings a deep and practical understanding of how to align IT capabilities with business objectives.

Stephanie holds a degree from Kent State University in Business Administration: Management Information Systems and has led a wide range of initiatives across enterprise systems, cybersecurity, infrastructure, and digital transformation. Her experience includes ERP implementations, cloud migrations, global communications rollouts, and strengthening enterprise security posture.

She is known for her ability to translate complex technology into business value, build high-performing teams, and deliver scalable solutions that support long-term organizational success.


Abstract:  

Building a Career in IT: The Lessons No One Teaches You

Stephanie Bowles, Chief Information Officer at Sweetmore Bakeries, will share her 35-year journey through the evolving world of information technology—from early hands-on technical roles to executive leadership. This session will focus not only on career progression, but on the real-world lessons learned along the way.

Through candid stories of both successes and missteps, Stephanie will explore how career growth is shaped by adaptability, continuous learning, and the ability to align technology with business outcomes. She will highlight the critical skills that matter most—beyond technical expertise—including communication, leadership, decision-making, and resilience.

Students will leave with practical advice on navigating their own careers, understanding how IT roles evolve over time, and what it truly takes to grow into leadership in a rapidly changing technology landscape.