Ewa Syta, Charles A. Dana Research Associate Professor of Computer Science and chair of Trinity’s Computer Science Department, has been named among the 46 finalists for the Connecticut Technology Council’s 21st annual Women of Innovation awards. The awards recognize innovation and leadership in academia, community, corporate, entrepreneurship, and research.
The finalists will be honored for their achievements in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) at the awards ceremony on Tuesday, October 27, when the winners are to be announced. Youth finalists—high school juniors or seniors—will receive scholarships to further their education and careers.
The finalists are leaders from Connecticut who were selected from a field of 100 nominations. Nominees include scientists, researchers, academics, manufacturers, student leaders, entrepreneurs, and technicians who are driving scientific advancement and business growth throughout Connecticut.
Syta is nominated in the category of Academic Innovation & Leadership – Post Secondary.
“I am incredibly honored to be recognized alongside such an accomplished group of women,” Syta said. “What makes this particularly meaningful to me is that it reflects so many different parts of my work that I care deeply about—research, teaching, mentorship, and creating opportunities for others.”
Syta added, “On a very personal level, I am also the mom of a 10-year-old daughter, and that makes this recognition particularly special. I want her to grow up seeing women doing interesting and ambitious things, taking on challenges, and defining success for themselves in diverse ways. I am incredibly proud that she gets to see not only me, but all of the remarkable women recognized through these awards, as examples of what is possible.”
Syta said that she believes recognition for women of innovation “makes visible the incredible work women are already doing.” She added, “These celebrations also show how many different ways there are to innovate and make an impact. Innovation happens in research labs and classrooms, in companies and startups, and in our communities. It happens every day, in small and big ways. There is no single way to be an innovator, and there is certainly no single path to a career in STEM. It is important for younger women to see the many different examples of women making an impact in their own ways.”
The awards program serves as an opportunity to show students what is possible, Syta said, and also emphasizes the value of mentorship. “I would like young women know that they do not need to have everything figured out from the beginning,” Syta said. “Careers, and life, rarely follow a linear path, and some of the most interesting opportunities come from being willing to try something new and say yes. Find people who will challenge you and support you, and, as you move forward, do the same for others. As one of my mentors once said to me, ‘Go for it. The worst thing that can happen is that you’ll succeed.’ I have carried that with me ever since.”
Held annually since 2005, the Women of Innovation program has created a vibrant community of women and girls in STEM, passionate about making an impact, mentoring, leading, and sharing their expertise with those pursuing career development and growth. It is one of the largest networks of women in technology, science, and engineering in Connecticut.
CTC Executive Director Milena Stankova Erwin said, “Congratulations to our 2026 Women of Innovation honorees! For 21 years, this program has celebrated the incredible women whose ideas, leadership, and achievements are shaping Connecticut’s innovation community. We’re proud to continue this tradition and look forward to recognizing the inspiring impact these women are making across Connecticut and beyond.”
The 21st annual Women of Innovation awards event will include networking with technology and business leaders from across the state, as well as the official announcement of the category award winners.
All nominees had to meet the following minimum requirements: currently working or studying in Connecticut, demonstrated strong leadership abilities, and serving as a mentor—either short- or long-term, peer, career, or life mentor. Nominees also met the specific requirements of the award category in which they were nominated.
About the Connecticut Technology Council
The Connecticut Technology Council (CTC), a statewide trade association, unites the state of Connecticut’s technology ecosystem, serving as a dynamic platform for idea exchange and resource sharing. Formed in 1994, CTC connects across sectors, firm sizes, and business models, to drive innovation and growth in Connecticut’s tech sector.
The CTC offers networking, learning, and promotional opportunities, connecting a diverse network of technology leaders, educational institutions, government agencies, nonprofits, and service providers. Members gain access to a community of tech leaders, founders, business owners, and partners. Through exclusive, invitation-only forums and signature events like the annual Women of Innovation awards, the CTC addresses key technology issues and trends, providing insights and opportunities for knowledge sharing among industry experts and peers, both in Connecticut and globally.
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