TechBirmingham CEO and President Jennifer Skjellum plans to step down in October
Ten years ago, the Magic City might not have been top-of-mind as a center for innovation and technology. But today, it’s tough to deny Birmingham’s status as a hub for emerging entrepreneurs and creatives in the tech space. A lot of credit for that is due to the hard work of TechBirmingham and its CEO and President, Jennifer Skjellum. Skjellum will leave her post this fall, and although we’re sad to see her go, we’re excited to see what she’ll create as she moves on in her career.
TechBirmingham’s stated mission is “to strengthen and promote the technology ecosystem by promoting tech companies in the region, helping to recruit and retain tech talent and entrepreneurs, and providing opportunities for technical training and education” and serve as “the voice of technology for the region demonstrating the strength, diversity and economic impact of the technology companies and talent working and living here.”
Skjellum and TechBirmingham have pushed Birmingham into the national conversation by encouraging cooperation, dialogue, and training. Events like Sloss Tech, partnerships with 100 Girls of Code, and networking opportunities for women ensure that the words will continue to spread about Birmingham and that people are committed to chipping away at the disparities in the tech industry.
That’s why we’re sad to see Skjellum step down (she’s heading to Tennessee, where her husband accepted a new job). We wish her the best and also want to thank her for all her efforts to recruit and retain top talent, to prepare the next generation for STEM careers and to drive innovation in our city and region. Birmingham’s loss is Chattanooga’s gain, and we can’t wait to hear what she does next.
