Women Defying the Odds: Meet Former 16-Year Educator Kimberly Lane Clark, Ed.S.

Kimberly Lane Clark, Ed.S. is an award-winning former 16-year educator and keynote speaker based in Texas. She is a Computer Science/STEM advocate focusing on crashing the digital divide for underrepresented groups, primarily women. Kim works to make an impactful change through innovative educational technology tools to provide access to learning for ALL. She has trained over 5,000 educators, conducted a TED, and served as the Black Tech Women Dallas chapter lead and Girls in Tech Dallas chapter lead.

Please share the story of a specific challenge that made defying the odds necessary, and how you navigated through it:

I grew up in a small town in Mississippi, and throughout grade school I loved taking computers apart and fixing them. My mom made resources possible for me, and through high school, I knew I would major in educational technology. Fast forward a year before graduation from college, and I had a professor say, “Kim! I don't think you should major in educational technology. It is not for women”. I was shocked, however, I wanted to do this, so I persisted. There were several bumps in the road, like taking more classes and an alternative certification route due to my major. However, I am thankful for that situation because it was truly a defining moment.

Can you discuss how you developed and maintained a resilient mindset that season?

For as long as I can remember, I have always been resilient. I never take no for an answer. I developed and maintained a resilient mindset by prioritizing my faith and learning how to maximize my mentor's knowledge and expertise. I also researched how to network.

What moment would you consider as a turning point in this particular journey?

I was a director of blended & digital learning during the pandemic, and honestly, it was the turning point in my career journey. I became more confident in my expertise and realized I needed to share my message globally.

Any advice you can share for others facing similar challenges?

I always doubted myself and backed out of opportunities because I thought I was not good enough. Everything was in my head, and the world told me I was a phenomenal woman. Imposter Syndrome is not real. In the words of Reshma Saujani, Imposter syndrome is a scheme. You are worthy of every door that has opened for you. 

To learn more about Kim visit: https://www.askatechnogirl.com/