The Hardest Transition of My Career
Over twenty years ago, with my degree in Geography in my pocket, I packed my bags and moved to the States.
I left behind my home, family, and friends in search of something bigger. My English was far from perfect, my knowledge of U.S. geography was limited, and the software was different from anything I had used before.
But one thing was crystal clear: I wanted to continue my journey as a cartographer. Map-making was my dream, my passion, my love.
Starting as an intern, the road ahead was anything but easy.
I advanced from GIS technician to specialist, then analyst—each step forward fueled by curiosity and drive. I quickly realized how underutilized technology was in the organizations I worked for. I saw inefficiencies, missed opportunities, and the massive potential of GIS and IT when aligned with strategy. That’s when I knew: I didn’t just want to be part of the work—I wanted to lead it.
The path to leadership wasn’t obvious. Transitioning from technical expert to leader meant facing a whirlwind of questions: How do I grow? How do I make a difference? What skills and knowledge do I need to lead effectively?
Behind each question were fears—of not being enough, of being rejected, of not knowing where to start.
Through trial and error, courage, and continuous learning, I made that leap. From technician to leader. From map-maker to IT Director.
Alongside my growth as a coach, I’ve built a strong foundation as an IT professional, leading cross-functional teams, setting strategic roadmaps, and driving innovation at the intersection of GIS and technology. I understand both the technical terrain and the visionary path forward.
Today, I combine these experiences to guide others. As a coach, I specialize in helping technical professionals navigate their own transitions—from doing the work to leading the charge. My mission is to empower GIS and IT professionals to find their voice, sharpen their vision, and confidently lead with purpose.
Whether you’re mapping your career or shaping your organization’s digital future, I’m here to help you chart the way.
Hi. I’m Izabela Miller
Izabela is an accomplished and results-driven professional with over 18 years of experience in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Information Technology (IT), and Leadership and Organizational Development. With a deep understanding of both the technical and strategic aspects of GIS and IT, Izabela has consistently demonstrated the ability to manage and enhance complex projects, develop strategic plans, and lead cross-functional teams to successful outcomes.
Throughout her career, she managed enterprise business systems, overseeing the growth of business solutions, strategy, governance, development, and support of internal tools and technology solutions. She played a crucial role in analyzing user requirements, implementing solutions aligned with organizational goals, and driving standardization, automation, and integration of business processes across various divisions.
In addition to her technical prowess, Izabela has a strong background in leadership development. She has created custom leadership development programs, facilitated workshops and training sessions, and conducted needs assessments to identify skill gaps and development opportunities. By collaborating with senior leaders and gathering feedback, she has continuously improved program outcomes, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives, strategies, and cultural values.
Izabela holds two Master’s Degrees—one in Geography and another in Public Administration. This educational background, combined with extensive professional experience, has provided them with a profound understanding of the information technology and geospatial fields, as well as the ability to lead comprehensive projects effectively.
She has presented at various conferences, including the 2024 Esri User Conference during the ESRI GIS Managers Summit, and has been actively involved in local GIS events. Her commitment to professional development and community involvement is evident in their active participation and leadership in these events.
Passionate about making a difference in communities through IT and geospatial solutions, Izabela now supports others on a similar journey.
