Embracing imposter syndrome: A look into Ingrid Franzen’s story

During the 2026 Women In Business Defining Her Future (DHF) conference, students and members had the privilege of listening to Ingrid Franzen’s story as the second opening speaker of the day. She shared her personal journey of going into tech and rising the ranks as often the first woman in the room.

The DHF conference is meant to represent female voices in the business world and inspire young students through each speaker's personal story and advice. Franzen is no exception, and pushed greatly on the importance of “embracing imposter syndrome”. 

She explained how, through her experiences, she has found that when dealing with emotions of fear and doubt, it’s actually “a signal of doing something meaningful.” Flipping her mindset and letting those openings become brighter and more powerful, Franzen has found motivation within herself that’s allowed her to find growth in every opportunity.

"It's different than, 'I'm not sure if I can do this, I better pause.' [Instead] it’s really challenging that idea, and stretching into new directions… This is a moment where I'm going to be the newest, highest potential version of myself, and that’s a very empowering thought." 

With this mentality, it’s taken her to many different jobs in the tech industry, which has now led to her current position at the “center of AI”. Inevitably, there were many moments where Franzen questioned her capability and had doubtful thoughts during her broad and tenured career.

“I’m not an engineer, what am I doing in this very technical leadership role?” she wondered. Still, through resilience and a shift in mindset, she learned to build confidence in herself and push through the doubt to get the job done.

Another change she has witnessed grow throughout her different jobs and experiences in the corporate world is the inclusivity and diversity of her environment. 

“The climate of the rooms I was in 15 years ago is not the same as they are today. We've come a long way, but there's still a lot of work to do,” Franzen said.

Franzen recognizes her experience is different from most; however, she knows that it is the goal to one day make it the norm.

She firmly believes in not only wanting to do better in terms of representation and equal opportunity, but also being an active part of that movement. Born in Mexico and having English as her second language, she sees herself as representing both a Latinx Leader and a Female Leader. 

"I'm a double outlier, and not in the sense of victimhood or lack of access, more of recognizing the responsibility to open doors for others and help others rise… It'd be very easy to just go on my way and enjoy the career trajectory, progression and success that I've had, but I've really made it a personal cause to help others rise."

Franzen also talked about the importance of believing in oneself. Speaking from her own experiences, she explained how knowing a leader was betting on her gave her the confidence to also bet on herself. This trust from her superiors inspired her to not only take the chance but also prove them right.

At this stage in her career, she intentionally involves herself in programs and groups where she can help other women and give her own knowledge to those who may be dealing with similar challenges. Speaking also as a mother, she expressed how she wanted to help push the business world into a place where future generations of women are empowered to lead not as an anomaly, but consistently.

After explaining her own personal journey, she expressed how she can’t wait to see more women lead in business.

“We have so much to offer that is unique. Our voices absolutely matter, and we need more of them.”

Putting an emphasis on inclusion and encouragement, Franzen leaves those with a final piece of advice: “There is no limit to our potential.”