The Minnesota Technology Association is excited to welcome Amanda Hardy as its Director of Membership. Amanda joins the team with a depth of experience in staffing and higher education, as well as experience with the Association after serving as a committee member for MnTech’s Jumpstart community. As the Director of Membership, Amanda will be forging relationships with Minnesota’s tech-enabled companies and connecting member organizations with the benefits of their membership. We chatted with Amanda to learn more about her background as we welcome her to the team.
Tell us a bit about yourself and your background.
Well, I hope this doesn’t disqualify me from my role here at MnTech, but I grew up in Wisconsin. I moved to the Minneapolis area about 10 years ago to start a new career endeavor. I love Minnesota and it feels more and more like home, although, I will not claim to be a Vikings fan.
Professionally, I hold my bachelor’s degree in organizational communication from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. I have worked in staffing, higher education, and non-profit sectors for the last 10+ years, with my most recent experience working at Summit Academy OIC as their Employer Engagement Manager.
What are you most passionate about in your work?
I am most passionate about building relationships with those who I am working with. For me, it forms the basis of what I do. I genuinely care about people and making connections with them. I believe this passion will serve me well in my role as Membership Director.
What drew you to MnTech?
I have worked with MnTech for close to three years in my previous role and love the work that MnTech is doing to grow the tech ecosystem through its advocacy, talent development, and networking initiatives. I have served on the Jumpstart committee, have attended numerous events, and most recently, was a breakout speaker at the Tech Talent conference in October. I have built many meaningful connections over the years because of MnTech that aided in my professional growth. I am excited to now work for MnTech as their Membership Director!
What excites you most about your new role?
I am most excited about getting to know our current members, working to understand their needs, and helping generate new ideas and events that will be meaningful and add value to their organization. I am also energized about building relationships with new members and working to expand the MnTech network!
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I love getting together with friends and spending time with my husband. My husband and I enjoy traveling and have plans to gallivant around Europe in 2025! Other than that, I love cooking new recipes (especially anything Italian), cozying up with a cup of coffee and a good book, and checking out local breweries.
