Julia Boss
Principle Program Manager at GE HealthCare
Julia began her IT career in 2009 with an internship at GE HealthCare, leading to a full-time role in a two-year rotational leadership program. Since 2012, she has expanded her technical and leadership skills in various roles, including database administrator, project manager, technical product manager, and program manager. Julia excels in empowering and inspiring her team to solve problems and deliver programs under pressure, combining listening and people skills with sincerity to execute initiatives on time and within budget.
Three principles have guided her through challenging initiatives.
Relationships matter
Building and maintaining relationships is crucial, as few roles are independent. Knowing team members’ skills, passions, and perspectives fosters collaboration and impactful results. More than that, relationships are what support you through challenging times and enhance celebrations. Investing in each other as individuals creates a positive environment for experimenting with innovative ideas, technologies, and processes. You learn from each other, and how you work matters as much as the results.
Ability to adapt while having a sense of humor
The old saying is true – “change is the only constant.” Perfection is unattainable, and no matter how thorough one’s plans are, something will change. Having the ability to adapt is important, but to do so with a sense of humor is critical. Julia often finds the best way to manage change is to find and embrace a theme, a mascot, or a song… something others can rally around. Have fun and bring others along for the ride, too!
Have a plan (or three)
Take time to plan and have a Plan A, B, and C to pivot as needed. Whether it is a different path, an extended one, or a shorter one, having multiple plans helps you adapt quickly without feeling rushed. This approach boosts your confidence and is appreciated by stakeholders.
Outside of work, Julia is passionate about bridging the technical divide and uplifting communities. She co-chairs United Way’s Tech United Council, is a member of Impact100 Greater Milwaukee and 100 Women Who Care Waukesha, serves on WCTC’s Applied AI Lab Advisory Council, and advocates for volunteering with Milwaukee Public Schools, and Revitalize Milwaukee. She enjoys leading resume workshops with i.c.stars cohorts and attending their High Teas.
