Sher
Downing
CEO & EdTech Strategist at Downing EdTech Consulting
"Fresh Start, Front Lines: How I Pivoted Industries Without Losing Momentum"
"Fresh Start, Front Lines: How I Pivoted Industries Without Losing Momentum"
Thu May 22 - 10:50 AM EDT/New York (See in local time)
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05/22/2025 10:50 AM
05/22/2025 11:10 AM
America/New_York
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"Fresh Start, Front Lines: How I Pivoted Industries Without Losing Momentum"
#WTGC2025
"Fresh Start, Front Lines: How I Pivoted Industries Without Losing Momentum"
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"Fresh Start, Front Lines: How I Pivoted Industries Without Losing Momentum"
"Fresh Start, Front Lines: How I Pivoted Industries Without Losing Momentum"
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Session: Fresh Start, Front Lines: How I Pivoted Industries Without Losing Momentum
The transition between industries often requires professionals to navigate the delicate balance between being a novice and demonstrating leadership capabilities. This narrative explores how I leveraged my core competencies while pivoting from academia to the EdTech industry, maintaining forward momentum despite the steep learning curve. By identifying transferable skills, embracing vulnerability in learning, and strategically applying previous experience to new challenges, I discovered that starting fresh doesn't mean starting from scratch. The piece examines key strategies including relationship building, strategic knowledge transfer, and the importance of maintaining confidence while acknowledging gaps. Through practical examples and honest reflection, I demonstrate how professionals can successfully transition industries while preserving and even enhancing their leadership trajectory.Key Takeaways
- Lead through uncertainty - gain credibility by approaching new challenges with calm methodology
- Balance confidence with learning - acknowledge gaps while showcasing proven strengths
- Transferable skills are your bridge - leverage existing expertise to create immediate value in your new industry
Bio
Sher Downing, Ph.D., is a prominent figure in educational technology, known for her strategic and operational expertise. As the CEO of Downing EdTech Consulting, she brings over three decades of experience in higher education and corporate training specializing in a holistic approach to digital learning, guiding professionals and organizations through meaningful transformations for training and content into online, hybrid, and multimedia offerings with the management of people and programs. Sher combines strategic planning with effective operations management, driving impactful innovation within the EdTech sector. Under her leadership, Downing EdTech Consulting was recognized as a Finalist in the prestigious EdTech Trendsetter category in 2023. In 2024, she was also a Finalist for her work as a host in the edtech podcaster category by EdTech Digest, highlighting her influence and expertise as the host of the EdTech Speaks podcast. Additionally, Sher mentors and coaches academics transitioning into the EdTech space. Sher's unwavering dedication to advancing the EdTech landscape continues to inspire and influence. Her commitment to excellence and profound expertise make her a trusted advisor for organizations navigating the complexities of digital learning and innovation. She remains a beacon of positive change, deeply understanding the evolving educational technology landscape and passionately driving progress. Sher's achievements extend beyond industry recognition. She has been prominently featured in the 50 over 50 Project and named among The Top 50 Women Leaders in Arizona for 2022. Additionally, she was a finalist in the 2021 Entrepreneur of the Year Women in IT USA Awards, underscoring her esteemed stature within the industry.