Staff Spotlight: Shannon Tracy

Shannon is Director of Virtual & Hybrid Events at TechChange, where she leads the Events department in creating engaging virtual and hybrid conferences for partners and participants across the globe. Prior to joining TechChange, she worked in nonprofits in France, the US, and the UK, and holds an MSc in Globalisation and Development from SOAS University of London.

Q: So, tell us more about yourself. How did you end up working in events?

Previous to working at TechChange, I worked in a few different nonprofits with education and human rights at the core of their missions. In these organizations, I was involved in events — everything from external-facing networking events focused on hiring to internal-facing events revolving around employee wellbeing programs and trainings. While my events experience was primarily in person, I was very interested in pivoting to the digital space when the pandemic hit and organizations turned their focus to convening virtually.

Q: How did you first hear about TechChange?

I heard about TechChange via one of Nick’s LinkedIn posts! A mutual connection reshared something he had posted, which led me to look into the organization and reach out to connect.

Q: What are some of your favorite parts of working at TechChange so far?

My favorite part of working at TechChange is the opportunity to collaborate with a group of innovative, intelligent colleagues and partners. The curiosity and energy that the TechChange team brings to their work creates an inspiring environment to work in. The partners that we work with also bring such passion for the programs and initiatives connected to each of their events, and, having worked in organizations focused on social change throughout my career, I feel lucky to be able to contribute to our partners’ success in areas from human rights to peacekeeping to public health!

Q: What excites you about this role?

One of the most pleasant surprises about this role is the constant exposure to live virtual production approaches. There is nothing more thrilling than being in the virtual greenroom/studio as we go live with a keynote speaker or opening ceremony!

Q: Anything you look forward to working on or learning at TechChange in the next year?

I’m really looking forward to the ways in which hybrid events will evolve as more of our partners become able to further explore this space. Over the past year and a half, we’ve had so many opportunities to shift our approach to virtual events and further enhance the participant experience, so it will be really interesting to see the ways in which we carry new and existing elements into a hybrid world and continue to improve based on what we learn!

Q: Lastly, what’s something that not a lot of people know about you?

I’m a bit restless and am always looking for a craft or hobby to keep busy! Some of my favorite activities are jogging and hiking, trying out new recipes, and designing jewelry or clothing. I’ve worn a few of my own creations to friends’ weddings and am always seeking new creative activities!