In the fast-paced world of technology, defining—or rather, redefining—oneself is no small feat. For Bridget Chatman, it’s a quiet-kept triumph, one that speaks volumes in subtlety.

With nearly three decades of experience in “Building, Shaping, and Inspiring” within the technology industry, Chatman now holds the prestigious title of the 2024 Technologist of the Year.

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Her ability to navigate the evolving landscape and rise into leadership is a strength grounded in belief, veiled by a humility that transcends her extraordinary accomplishments. And yet—what truly sets her apart is her enduring pursuit of transforming what it means to lead, confidently speaking up in every room, and seamlessly bridging her faith with innovation.

As the vice president of SAIC’s business development, Chatman has not only shattered the complexities of the tech industry but has undoubtedly brought decade defying innovations to fruition.

Guided by strategic foresight, she has positioned advanced technology for mission-critical requirements in government for SAIC.

Additionally, she serves on the National Space Council’s Data and Emerging Technology subcommittee emphasizing innovation in space enterprise.

Her most recent achievement, the launch of SAIC’s AccelerātHER Women’s Leadership Academy, solidifies her legacy as a trailblazer in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).

The program alone has empowered over 120 aspiring women leaders, with more than 90 percent of graduates ascending to leadership positions within the company, amplifying the program’s significant impact on the future of women in technology.

Chatman’s journey, however, began far from the boardrooms of tech giants and advanced software. Raised on the fringes of the Mississippi Delta in Missouri and in the industrious pockets of Chicago, Illinois' South Side, her life was shaped by three pillars: integrity, activism, and spirituality.

The rhythmic sounds of Motown, blues, and gospel filled her home, creating what she describes as the “soundtrack of her life.”

Her father—a music aficionado like herself—was convinced she and her four siblings were going to be “a performing family like the Jackson 5,” she says jokingly. They all sing and can play multiple instruments.

Beyond music, Chatman is a natural problem solver, a trait she inherited. Her father owned a grocery store and other service-related businesses before shifting his skills to factory work.

Meanwhile, her mother—a Tougaloo College graduate with a passion for books whom she calls her best friend—would often read to Chatman when she was young.

Both parents were active participants in the Civil Rights Movement, living by faith and dedicating their lives to serving the wider community.

The legacy of activism runs deep in Chatman’s family. “My grandmother housed and fed the Freedom Riders who came to Mississippi when it was against the law to do so,” she shares, her voice carrying the history of an ancestral line that is as resilient as it is inspiring.

This legacy, at least three generations rooted, continues to guide Chatman in her own path to this day—a path that bridges the past with the future.

Despite being acutely aware of the broken promises of the South during the 70s, Chatman didn’t let that deter her from pursuing her dream profession.

“I had a love for STEM and could visualize myself in the field,” she recalls, noting that her love for playing the piccolo, sax, and flute—a talent she continued to nurture even through the pandemic—didn’t offer the same clear path as STEM.

It wasn’t until decades later in her career that she first encountered injustice in the workplace.

After moving to Maryland in the mid-‘90s to work for a technology company, she experienced “blatant inequalities,” a challenge that continues to plague the modern workforce.

Since leaving that company, Chatman has gained many lessons and wisdom, which she now actively shares with future generations.

“In my early years of technical and sales management, I rarely saw women of color,” she says firmly. “Oftentimes, I was the only woman on my team for many years.”

Having dealt with the marginalization of her skills and credentials, Chatman was overlooked for promotions, even though she had more experience than her less-qualified peers.

“I had a manager say to me, ‘Why do you want stock options? You wouldn’t know what to do with them anyway,’” she recalls, still astonished.

Rather than accept this injustice, Chatman took action. She researched the company’s policies and language, helping to shape documented procedures of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). This experience significantly influenced her thinking as she advanced in her career, empowering her to advocate for herself and others.

Chatman’s ascent to vice president at SAIC is not just a testament to her professional acumen but to her resilience in the face of profound personal challenges.

As she led transformative projects, Chatman confronted a reality that reshaped her approach to life and leadership. The loss of her mother to cancer—a woman she describes as her rock and prayer warrior—came just as Chatman faced her own battle with breast and thyroid cancer.

This dual journey through grief and illness forced her to pause, reflect, and ultimately redefine what mattered most.

“I had always prided myself on being a high performer,” Chatman says.

But the relentless pace she maintained throughout her 40s became unsustainable as she entered her 50s. The early detection and removal of her cancers offered a second chance, one she chose to embrace with newfound clarity.

“I added myself to the calendar,” she says, a simple yet profound shift in her approach to work and life.

Today, Chatman’s leadership is marked by empathy and balance. She encourages her team to take time off, cross train to avoid burnout, and prioritize their well-being.

“For the first time in my life, I feel like it’s okay to make myself a priority, and it feels good,” she reflects.

Chatman’s journey continues, now driven by a commitment to not just success and serving others but to a life lived with intention and care toward herself.

In sharing her story, she offers a new vision of leadership—one where self-care and empathy are as critical as innovation and strategy. She’s not just telling her story; she’s living a redefined version of it.

In navigating life’s challenges, Chatman shares five key practices that help her maintain a positive mindset: