Rita Ashley:  

When I hear stories about mean girls and high school bullies, I count myself fortunate. During my years at Rancho, I saw little of either. I belonged to many social groups, clubs and associations where all were welcome. I value that during my time, education and learning were valued. Heck, even most the class of '61 jocks went on to college, many to Ivy Leagues where they excelled. My Story: In spite of parental roadblocks, I earned three college degrees and two certificates. I was the first woman to teach electronics at College of San Mateo... And, simultaneously, had several jobs in Silcon Valley tech companies, one of their first female hires for those jobs. I continued to break ground in other companies paving the way for other women. I gave back by bringing tech women into high schools to tell their stories, to be seen as role models. I carved a niche' profession for myself in Seattle during that region's tech boom. I worked with founders, leaders, investors and executives to build and run tech companies. I leveraged that experience into an Executive Coaching service. I am proud to say I was the person behind the curtai...Expand for more