Porscha M.Whiteside

What’s the most important leadership lesson you’ve learned?

The value of genuinely listening to your team. It builds trust, encourages open communication, and fosters a supportive and collaborative environment empowering the team to ask questions in a safe space, resulting in stronger solutions.

What do you consider to be your most important career achievement or milestone?

Leading the transition to online learning during COVID-19. I proactively built a one-stop site for faculty, staff, parents, and students, giving them easy access to key resources and guidance needed for a smooth transition.

What do you aspire to accomplish in your career and why? What obstacles will you overcome?

I hope to be a role model for women in STEM, proving we belong in every room. I support colleagues who feel unheard, creating space for questions and growth. Representation matters. I also aim to grow into a formal leadership role by overcoming self-doubt and embracing my potential.

Describe an amazing opportunity in your STEM career.

Providing end-user support. It’s rewarding to teach others something new, challenge their assumptions about IT, and resolve issues. The satisfaction of improving their experience and boosting customer satisfaction makes this work truly fulfilling.

How was AWIS helped you professionally and/or personally?

Although I haven’t yet fully utilized all the resources available through AWIS, the community has personally empowered me by reinforcing the importance of confidence and resilience, especially in navigating a male-dominated field. It has provided valuable encouragement and a sense of belonging.

What is your favorite word? (only one word)

Resilience

How do you define it?

To me, resilience means the ability to bounce back, recover, and push through trials and tribulations. It’s about being adaptable, positive, and strong even in the face of adversity.

How has this word influenced or inspired your career?

Resilience has greatly influenced my career, reminding me that challenges are inevitable. From where I started to where I am now, I’ve learned to see setbacks as opportunities for growth. My resilience keeps me moving forward and drives me to help others overcome their own challenges.

How does AWIS impact your career journey?

The support and guidance from AWIS have reinforced the importance of resilience and advocacy for women in the field. I am continuously inspired to pay it forward by helping others along their career paths.

What are you currently reading or listening to?

I am currently listening to Kendrick Lamar. One of my favorite artist. His effective storytelling and lyricism, provokes thought and meaningful conversations.

What do you consider the best professional or personal advice you’ve ever received?

Just like a ship needs a strong captain to navigate through stormy seas, you need to prioritize your well-being to guide and support those around you effectively. By putting yourself first, you recharge, build resilience, and become better equipped to help others.

West Philadelphia native Porscha Whiteside is a Senior IT Desktop Engineer at Drexel University. A first-generation graduate, she holds a bachelor’s degree in Information Sciences and Technology with a business minor from Penn State, and an MBA in MIS from Wilmington University. She brings both technical skill and emotional intelligence to every space she enters. Passionate about community, animals, and mentoring, she’s always open to networking. Her journey reflects resilience, purpose, and growth.