In this episode, we discuss the incredible journey of Yvette (Ray) Hill Smith, who climbed that ladder 🪜 to become the CIO of a multi-billion dollar tech company. Yvette shares valuable advice on how to take proactive steps toward achieving career success, including taking care of your finances and specializing in specific roles to reach your goals more easily. She shares her experience of being the first woman of color to pursue her role and the responsibility she carries to help open up pathways for others to do the same. Moreover, we explore alternative learning options to traditional college and planning for practical matters such as payments. Our guest explains how project-based work can provide important experience and growth as well. Lastly, we emphasize the significance of having confidence in oneself and building quality relationships for ongoing success. Mentoring can be a great tool for career development and should be embraced. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and take your career to the next level.