A Virtual Fireside Chat with CRN Women of the Channel Honorees

Every year, I look forward to seeing CRN’s Women of the Channel announcement. This year, twenty leaders at AWS are being recognized as visionary leaders in the IT channel. I sat down with two of the inspiring builders – Amy Belcher and Cathy Cheng. I’m happy to share the highlights of our conversation here.

Jeff: Big, heartfelt congratulations to both of you! What is the most exciting part of your job now at AWS?

Amy: For me, it’s partners and people. I lead the Independent Software Vendor (ISV) sales for AWS Worldwide Public Sector (WWPS). We have a variety of software partners that we work with, from newer to more mature partners. Accelerating their cloud journey, regardless of where they are in the process, is exciting. And similarly, there are about 100 people in my organization at different stages of their career journey. Helping people accelerate their careers is what I’m very passionate about.

Cathy: l lead the Migration Accelerated Program (MAP) globally for AWS WWPS. Our partner program drives positive customer and partner outcomes. The most exciting part of my job is being at the intersection of business and technology, where we impact business transformation every day. Migration to the cloud is happening rapidly worldwide, so this is an exciting time to be a part of AWS.

Jeff: Who has been the most supportive of you throughout your careers?

Amy: My husband and my children, without a doubt. My husband is super supportive, and I have two sons who are 19 and 15 years old.

Cathy: My mother has been the most supportive in my career. She believes in leading by example through her strong work ethic. I’ve sought out leaders with similar traits who have pushed me to be the best. The common theme amongst them is that they’re caring and also possesses high emotional intelligence. These are traits I strive to emulate and put into practice daily.

Jeff: What inspires you about the public sector and the opportunity you have here?

Amy: For me, it’s the sense of community and giving back, Jeff. That was one of the many reasons I wanted a public sector role. I’m particularly passionate about working with and supporting veterans. AWS feels strongly that the defense, intelligence and national security communities deserve access to the best technology in the world and we are committed to supporting the important work they do to keep us safe.

Cathy: As a former United States Marine, I look to open doors for veterans choosing to work at AWS. Our leaders empower individuals the opportunity to build new solutions on AWS technologies. It is the public sector’s pace of innovation and rapid adoption of AWS technology that attracted me to join the organization.

Jeff: Startups are starting at earlier ages now. If you were in a room full of startups founded by women, what advice would you give them?

Amy: One, lean on others and hire for your gaps. Two, being the hardest worker in the room doesn’t matter if no one knows you. I’ve learned this lesson painfully. Invest in network and surround yourself with people who inspire you. Three, vocalize expectations in your job and don't forget you have choices!

Cathy: Don’t be afraid of failure. Actively listen! You can minimize the amount of errors in falling down and scraping your knees by learning from those who have done it before.

Jeff: The cycle for tech can be never-ending. What advice would you give on work-life harmony?

Amy: I don’t believe in work-life balance! I call it “work-life integration”. I love what I do, and it makes a huge difference in my personal life. To me, there is no “not-one-size-fits-all” calendar. For example, when I’m not traveling on business, I pick up my son from high school. I integrate my work into my personal time, where possible. If someone looked at my calendar and saw “2:30pm - high school pick up,” it may seem awkward to some people, but I’ve integrated my work calendar into my personal life. That’s what I’ve found works for me.

Cathy: To me, it’s one in the same now. I put in 110% effort when I find something I’m passionate about. At AWS, my passion for helping others and creative problem solving converge. I have many passions outside of work, from coaching kids volleyball to helping out at local food shelters. I encourage everyone to give back what they can to their local communities.

Jeff: Thank you very much for sharing your stories with us. You both have very inspiring stories and we’re so grateful for all the great things you are doing at AWS and in your communities.