As an Information Security Officer for Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, she led the Information Security Compliance and Governance group. Hayes directed information and data integrity for all information technology (IT) functions, helping the company create its first Information Security Roadmap and an Integrated Forensics and Computer Incident Response team.

The Women of Color STEM Conference New Media/IT Leadership Award is presented to a woman working in Internet media who has a driving role in either the development of new technology or the management of technical facilities.

Prior to launching her company in 2014, N-Ovate Solutions, Hayes was tapped to lead the Atlanta Public School District as Deputy Chief Information Officer.

Hayes played an integral role in developing a 21st-century technology roadmap and reinstating the district’s federal funding for over 50,000 students and 6,000 employees.

Hayes also launched the Atlanta Virtual Academy for online learning and the Information Technology Project Management Office, resulting in a district-wide increase in student retention.

Under her leadership, the school district experienced exponential improvements in graduation rates and digital literacy for students, parents, and teachers.

A former United States Navy Officer, she holds a master’s degree in Managerial Strategy and Economics from New York Institute of Technology and a bachelor's degree in Operations Management from Georgia State University.

Hayes is the owner and Chief Technology Officer of Atlanta-based tech firm N-Ovate Solutions. She was a 2014 recipient of the "CIO 100" Award and received a "Modern Day Technology Leader" award at the BEYA STEM Conference for her "unwavering dedication to digital literacy" for all people.