Executive Director Julie Collier brings vision, passion and unyielding dedication to the HOPE Technology and Education Center established to close the digital divide by making computer technology and training available in the inner city. Collier combines her enthusiasm for helping others with her expertise in information technology and project management as she leads the not-for-profit HOPE TEC. U
nder her leadership, the technology center has grown to offer classes five days a week. Hundreds of adults have participated in HOPE TEC’s technology classes. Additionally, many Chicago Public School students enrolled in the centers summer and afterschool programs. HOPE TEC’s goal is to empower residents of disadvantaged communities by equipping them with the computer and technology skills needed to compete in the global economy. As well as HOPE TEC envisions providing health and wellness education seminars to improve overall lifestyles of indivuals, families, and entire communities. Prior to her current position, Collier worked more than 10 years as an information technology project manager for IBM and directed infrastructure projects from inception to production for the Fortune 500 Company’s corporate customers. Known for her drive and visionary leadership, Collier is responsible for overseeing all aspects of HOPE TEC’s operations including strategic planning, fundraising and financial management, curriculum development, wireless infrastructure design and organizational expansion. When not juggling executive tasks, Collier is in the classroom teaching. “My purpose for being at IBM all those years and going up the management chain was so that I could use my robust training to give back,” the Chicago native says. Collier holds a Microsoft Office Suite Masters Certification and a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Information System from the DeVry Institute of Technology in Chicago.
