Our Story

TechnoGals began as a spark of an idea during a casual conversation between two colleagues turned fast friends, Alicia Retzlaff and Traci Gorman. We first crossed paths at Amazon Web Services (AWS) in the Customer Solutions organization, where we bonded over our shared passion for technology and leadership. Alongside our excitement for innovation, we also shared candid conversations about the unique challenges women face in a male-dominated industry.

One day, after a particularly tough day at work, we found ourselves joking about starting a podcast to shed light on these experiences. That joke quickly evolved into a full-blown strategy session, and in January 2024, the first episode of TechnoGals was born.

What started as a podcast to amplify stories and spark meaningful discussions has now grown into a broader mission. Beyond the podcast, TechnoGals is building a vibrant community dedicated to empowering new and emerging leaders. Our vision is to help individuals accelerate their careers through coaching programs, digital training, and thought-provoking content on our platforms.

At TechnoGals, we’re here to share our experiences, celebrate your successes, and power the next generation of leaders. Together, let’s break barriers, challenge norms, and create a future where leadership knows no limits.

Alicia Retzlaff

Like many people, I’ve taken a non-linear career path. From starting in insurance to education to landing in my knack of delivering technology solutions. I understand not only the power of the career pivot but also how to apply knowledge learned into strengths for your next move. Now as a Sr. Leader at AWS, where my team delivers business and technical solutions for our Independent Solution Vendors (ISV) customers, I can look back at my career with pride, a lot of lessons learned, and a passion for helping others to take a shorter path to success. 

Leadership is a humbling and empowering career, and I’m ready to help other emerging leaders accelerate their results. 

So here is the TL:DR:

*20+ year of experience (from startup to publicly traded) with proven results that led to continued promotions. 

* 7+ year of influencing teams and people when I wasn’t labeled as a leader. 

*10+ years of leading teams to deliver global results.

*Yes I’ve taken all these experiences and am prepared to help you fast track your early leadership years into results that accelerate your career. 

My career is only one part of my story though. I’m also a mother, was a single parent, and have a potential obsession with always wanting to adopt farm animals for my acreage. When the weather is agreeable, I play golf and sand volleyball. Otherwise, you’ll find me in my kitchen trying to master sourdough bread (iykyk).

Traci Gorman

Based in Wichita, Kansas, I grew up in a small town of just 600 people, where I developed a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for community. This foundation shaped my winding and unexpected career path, which began in the medical field as an EMT, where I discovered a passion for helping others. Over time, I transitioned into the world of technology, uncovering a natural talent for solving complex problems and driving innovation.

This shift opened the door to a diverse career spanning multiple industries and challenges. Over nearly nine years at Koch Industries, I took on a variety of technical and leadership roles, honing my skills in leading teams while delivering strategic business outcomes. This foundation paved the way for an exciting opportunity at Amazon Web Services (AWS), where I worked with top-tier clients in Retail and Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG). Most recently, I made an exciting return to Koch Industries as an IT Director at Flint Hills Resources, where I lead the charge in shaping and advancing product management for critical business applications.

Beyond my career, I’m passionate about all things tech, wine, the great outdoors, and Star Trek. My husband, Adam, and I enjoy life with our blended family, which includes two beautiful stepdaughters, two grandkids, and our two huskies, Callie and Gimli (yes, we’re also Lord of the Rings fans).

As co-founder of TechnoGals, I’m passionate about advancing my own leadership journey while empowering you to achieve yours—whether you’re stepping into your first leadership role or striving to grow as a new leader. Together, let’s boldly go where no leader has gone before!