Hi! I’m Nikkia T. Carter

Microsoft Technology Strategist | Technology and Innovation Enthusiast | Published Author | Tech Community Leader & Thought Leader | Mentor | Philanthropist and Political Advocate

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About Me

Born and raised in Baltimore City, a lot family influences and expectations, a bit of happenstance, and my own tenancity has led me to where I am today. My experiences in my young life led me to have a love for technology and science. As the oldest of four siblings, I have a natural inclination to take care of others and as I grew older, this inclination turned into the ability to mentor others and the need to help improve lives. I have mentored and taught mostly adults, formally and informally, on topics such as technology, working in the technology field, professionalism, branding via social media and online presence, how to start a business, and how to partner with Microsoft.

Currently, the Worldwide Modern Workplace Tech Strategy Lead at Microsoft in the One Commercial Partner (OCP) Tech Team. Previous to my current role, served as the Director of Collaboration and Training at C3 Integrated Solutions, Inc. C3 is a Microsoft Partner which holds 3 Gold and 2 Silver competencies, specializing in modernizing business through the use, support, and understanding of Microsoft technology. Previous to my Director role, I was President and CEO of Carter-McGowan Services, LLC, a Microsoft Silver Cloud Partner which I have since sold at the beginning of 2018.

I have a Bachelor’s in Computer Science, a Master’s in IT Project Management, and a CompTIA Certified Technical Trainer. I started in the IT industry in 2001 as an application developer then added in some intranet development. In 2009, I started in SharePoint development and consultancy experience and, in 2012, when I started Carter-McGowan Services, I added in experience in Office 365, Microsoft licensing, and entreprenuership. I am an accomplished speaker and have spoken at many technical and some non-technical events. I have authored two video courses and coauthored one book. I am the President of SharePoint User Group of DC and organize community events as well as serve on the Microsoft’s VFI (Voices for Innovation) taskforce and am a board member of the IAMCP (International Association of Microsoft Channel Partners) DC chapter. I am also a former member of Microsoft's Partner Engagement Board.

To learn more about me, keep exploring my site or reach out directly.

My Skills

No matter the role or project, I have always shown adaptability, creativity, and drive to achieve. Take a look below to learn more about my specific abilities, and feel free to get in touch. You can also connect with me via social media.

Entrepreneurship and Executive Skills

When I decided to start a business in 2012, I did so as a techie with some networking and consultant skills but little else. I have learned so much on the fly and over time on marketing, salesmanship, finances, executive communication, and so much more. I constantly worked to refine those skills and learn more which lead to my business being open for more than 6 years until I decided to sell. Currently, as Worldwide Modern Workplace Tech Lead for Microsoft, the saga continues!

My Professional Experience

I have been in the IT industry since 2001 in many different roles. I have been a government employee, a developer, a government contractor, and a consultant. In 2012, I started Carter-McGowan Services, ran it as the CEO/President, then sold it to C3. I started in March 2019 at Microsoft, a company I have respected and loved for a long time. And the journey continues...

To see more details, click the button below to see my full resume. You can also see my LinkedIn profile.

See My Full Resume

Worldwide Modern Workplace Tech Lead, Microsoft (OCP Tech Team)

March 2019 - Present

Redmond, WA

Senior SharePoint Business Analyst, Apex Systems

December 2018 - March 2019

Washington, DC

Director of Collaboration and Training, C3 Integrated Solutions

January - December 2018

Arlington, VA

CEO/President, Carter-McGowan Services

March 2012 - August 2018

King George, VA

SharePoint Developer (contract), Experis

December 2012 - March 2013

Richmond, VA

Senior Consultant (SharePoint Developer), Booz Allen Hamilton

August 2010 - November 2012

McLean, VA

SharePoint Developer, Solutions Development Corp

November 2009 - May 2010

King George, VA

Systems Programmer II, CACI-Federal

July 2007 - November 2009

King George, VA

Computer Scientist, Naval Surface Warfare Center

August 2002 - June 2007

Dahlgren, VA

Associate Member of the Technical Staff, CSC

February 2001 - November 2001

King George, VA

My Education

July 2010 - June 2011

Achieved a Master's in IT Project Management via AIU's accelerated program.

September 1995 - January 1999

Attained a Bachelor's in Computer Science.

My Passions and Accomplishments

Political Advocacy

I am a member of Microsoft's Voices for Innovation and believe that helping to shape policy in the US is key to moving our country forward and to helping all people as well as the tech industry thrive. VFI is a Microsoft supported community of technology professionals and everyday Americans who help advance technology, IT job growth, and businesses of all sizes. As empowered citizen advocates, we work together to shape public policies for our 21st century digital economy and society.

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