Laura McCarthy has been delivering industry-leading client-driven technology leadership recruitment services in the Washington, DC metro area for over 20 years. She has specialized in filling CIO, CTO, VP and Director roles for private-sector firms, emerging technology players, software, internet, logistics, healthcare, insurance organizations, associations and non-profits through Qualified Search, a boutique search firm she founded in 1999. Prior to launching Qualified Search, Laura was an IT Search Practice Manager at Source Services, a specialty permanent placement firm serving Fortune 1000 corporations, and small and mid-sized companies. She was repeatedly recognized as a top performer nationally while supporting the Washington DC marketplace. Earlier in her career, Laura held positions in project management, systems design, analysis, and system integration for PRC Realty Systems (MLS systems) and Dynamic Business Systems (accounting & inventory systems.) From 2005 to 2015, Laura channeled her professional expertise in technology recruiting for the benefit of DC metro-based Women in Technology (WIT.) She has been a Board Member and Chair of the Sponsorship Committee. She has also been an effective and vocal promoter and coordinator for several of WIT’s programs including the Mentorship program and the Women Business Owners special interest group. Laura holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration and Finance from the University of Delaware and has lived and worked in the DC area since 1986.