Honoring Black Impact in Technology
Black History Month is a powerful opportunity to honor the resilience, creativity, and contributions of Black individuals throughout history and in our present day. We asked a few BeU members to share their thoughts on the importance of Black History Month, the rewards of working in technology, and their hopes for those just starting in the field.
Aundre Dudley
Cybersecurity Presales Team Lead at CDW
What does Black History Month mean to you?
It’s an opportunity to recognize the sacrifices, struggles, and triumphs of those who came before us—people who challenged injustice, broke barriers, and laid the groundwork for freedom, equality, and progress. It reminds us to carry their spirit forward in our own lives and communities.
Who are some influential Black figures that have inspired you?
I’ve always been a huge fan of Kobe Bryant—not just for his incredible talent on the court, but for the relentless work ethic and mindset he brought to everything he did. To me, Kobe embodies the spirit of extreme accountability—taking full ownership of your goals and never settling for anything less than what’s in your heart. He played during one of the NBA’s most competitive and entertaining eras, and it was an absolute privilege to watch his greatness unfold.
One of my favorite Kobe quotes sums it up perfectly: "The moment you give up is the moment you let someone else win." That mindset—never giving in, never giving up—is something I try to channel in my own life, both personally and professionally. Kobe’s legacy is a reminder that excellence isn’t handed to you; it’s earned every day.
What do you find most rewarding about your role in technology?
Technology never stands still—it’s always evolving, and to keep up, I’ve embraced the ideas of lifelong learning and continuous improvement. Staying fresh and competitive in my field means constantly expanding my knowledge and sharpening my skills. I take pride in truly understanding the technologies I support and using that expertise to help our customers solve real, meaningful problems. For me, it’s about more than just keeping up—it’s about staying ahead, delivering value, and making an impact where it matters most.
"That mindset—never giving in, never giving up—is something I try to channel in my own life, both personally and professionally"
– Aundre Dudley, Cybersecurity Presales Team Lead at CDW
Tiffany Phillips
Sr. Recruiter at CDW
What does Black History Month mean to you?
It is a time to reflect upon the struggles and the triumphs of my ancestors. It’s also a time to look at the progress that we as African Americans have made and will continue to make. I am proud of how we continue to endure during the most challenging times. I am grateful every year for this time of reflection.
What do you find most rewarding about your role in technology?
I love the Managed Services organization and the hiring managers I support. I have recruited for Managed Services for just over nine years. I enjoy finding top talent for the organization and watching the growth and success of Managed Services. It is very satisfying knowing that I may have played a very small part in finding someone that will come in and make a positive impact.
"It is a time to reflect upon the struggles and the triumphs of my ancestors. I am grateful every year for this time of reflection."
– Tiffany Phillips, Sr. Recruiter at CDW
Cody Weaver
Technical Architect – Datacenter Solutions at CDW
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black History Month is a time to celebrate those who overcame challenges due to the color of their skin, and to reflect on these overlooked accomplishments due to bias or erasure. It reminds us that understanding our history is essential to ensure we don't repeat past mistakes and guides us toward equity and inclusiveness.
What do you find most rewarding about your role in technology?
The most rewarding part of being a Technical Architect at CDW is bringing everything together. Every day, countless people here make impactful changes, driving growth and excellence. I take pride in being the "glue" that unites these efforts, creating scalable solutions for hundreds or thousands of customers. Collaborating with various groups across our company and partners is the icing on the cake!
"Appreciate the journey and focus on the impact you can have now...Struggles and successes are part of the process."
– Cody Weaver, Technical Architect–Datacenter Solutions at CDW
Athena Richardson
Account Representative at CDW
What do you find most rewarding about your role in technology?
Being my ancestors’ wildest dreams. Years ago, being black in the tech space was unheard of. Being able to explore the different areas of technology and what works best for my professional development has been the most rewarding.
What advice would give to someone entering the tech field?
Be willing to learn! You won’t be able to truly excel in your role if you aren’t willing to be in a new space. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from your peers. Though it sounds cliché, before you know it you will understand the role more and be able to help those in need!
"Being my ancestors’ wildest dreams."
– Athena Richardson, Account Representative at CDW
Learn more about our Business Resource Groups like BeU.
Black History Month is a powerful opportunity to honor the resilience, creativity, and contributions of Black individuals throughout history and in our present day. We asked a few BeU members to share their thoughts on the importance of Black History Month, the rewards of working in technology, and their hopes for those just starting in the field.
Aundre Dudley
Cybersecurity Presales Team Lead at CDW
What does Black History Month mean to you?
It’s an opportunity to recognize the sacrifices, struggles, and triumphs of those who came before us—people who challenged injustice, broke barriers, and laid the groundwork for freedom, equality, and progress. It reminds us to carry their spirit forward in our own lives and communities.
Who are some influential Black figures that have inspired you?
I’ve always been a huge fan of Kobe Bryant—not just for his incredible talent on the court, but for the relentless work ethic and mindset he brought to everything he did. To me, Kobe embodies the spirit of extreme accountability—taking full ownership of your goals and never settling for anything less than what’s in your heart. He played during one of the NBA’s most competitive and entertaining eras, and it was an absolute privilege to watch his greatness unfold.
One of my favorite Kobe quotes sums it up perfectly: "The moment you give up is the moment you let someone else win." That mindset—never giving in, never giving up—is something I try to channel in my own life, both personally and professionally. Kobe’s legacy is a reminder that excellence isn’t handed to you; it’s earned every day.
What do you find most rewarding about your role in technology?
Technology never stands still—it’s always evolving, and to keep up, I’ve embraced the ideas of lifelong learning and continuous improvement. Staying fresh and competitive in my field means constantly expanding my knowledge and sharpening my skills. I take pride in truly understanding the technologies I support and using that expertise to help our customers solve real, meaningful problems. For me, it’s about more than just keeping up—it’s about staying ahead, delivering value, and making an impact where it matters most.
"That mindset—never giving in, never giving up—is something I try to channel in my own life, both personally and professionally"
– Aundre Dudley, Cybersecurity Presales Team Lead at CDW
Tiffany Phillips
Sr. Recruiter at CDW
What does Black History Month mean to you?
It is a time to reflect upon the struggles and the triumphs of my ancestors. It’s also a time to look at the progress that we as African Americans have made and will continue to make. I am proud of how we continue to endure during the most challenging times. I am grateful every year for this time of reflection.
What do you find most rewarding about your role in technology?
I love the Managed Services organization and the hiring managers I support. I have recruited for Managed Services for just over nine years. I enjoy finding top talent for the organization and watching the growth and success of Managed Services. It is very satisfying knowing that I may have played a very small part in finding someone that will come in and make a positive impact.
"It is a time to reflect upon the struggles and the triumphs of my ancestors. I am grateful every year for this time of reflection."
– Tiffany Phillips, Sr. Recruiter at CDW
Cody Weaver
Technical Architect – Datacenter Solutions at CDW
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black History Month is a time to celebrate those who overcame challenges due to the color of their skin, and to reflect on these overlooked accomplishments due to bias or erasure. It reminds us that understanding our history is essential to ensure we don't repeat past mistakes and guides us toward equity and inclusiveness.
What do you find most rewarding about your role in technology?
The most rewarding part of being a Technical Architect at CDW is bringing everything together. Every day, countless people here make impactful changes, driving growth and excellence. I take pride in being the "glue" that unites these efforts, creating scalable solutions for hundreds or thousands of customers. Collaborating with various groups across our company and partners is the icing on the cake!
"Appreciate the journey and focus on the impact you can have now...Struggles and successes are part of the process."
– Cody Weaver, Technical Architect–Datacenter Solutions at CDW
Athena Richardson
Account Representative at CDW
What do you find most rewarding about your role in technology?
Being my ancestors’ wildest dreams. Years ago, being black in the tech space was unheard of. Being able to explore the different areas of technology and what works best for my professional development has been the most rewarding.
What advice would give to someone entering the tech field?
Be willing to learn! You won’t be able to truly excel in your role if you aren’t willing to be in a new space. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from your peers. Though it sounds cliché, before you know it you will understand the role more and be able to help those in need!
"Being my ancestors’ wildest dreams."
– Athena Richardson, Account Representative at CDW
Learn more about our Business Resource Groups like BeU.
