2023

Amy Gilliland

President, General Dynamics Information Technology

“When people are seen and supported, when they are led with compassion and trust, they perform.”

In your opinion, what qualities make a “Power Woman”?

I believe two essential qualities a business leader must possess are authenticity and compassion. When leaders show up as themselves, they give others the permission to do so as well. And, people need to know you see them; I have seen firsthand how compassion and business performance can co-exist in a company’s aspirations.

What do you think is the number one action we as a society can take toward empowering women and gender equality? (e.g. affirmative action)?

Supporting families is critical. When we recognize and address the burdens placed on families, working parents and caregivers — both women and men — we see the direct impact these actions have on advancing women in the workplace. Whether it be caregiver support, family leave or mental health services for all family members—offerings that strengthen our families and communities lead to women advancement.

Do you think that asking previous salary requirements in job interviews contributes to the pay gap between women and men? NY State outlawed this practice, should it be nationwide?

Organizations should hire the talent they need to move their business forward. I find there is greater value in focusing on a person’s future potential and the unique contributions that they bring to the table moving forward than what they were paid for another job.

What was the defining moment or experience in your life that led you to where you are today?

My decision to go to the U.S. Naval Academy put me on a path towards service which I still follow in my work at GDIT. Whether it be the warfighter in theater, using technology for better health outcomes or supporting our veterans — we serve in support of the important missions of our customers.

“Legislators, priests, philosophers, writers, and scientists have striven to show that the subordinate position of woman is willed in heaven and advantageous on earth.” Simone de Beauvoir. Is this still a major stumbling block on the 21st century road to equality?

No.

What is your mantra? What phrase or parable best describes your approach right now?

When people are seen and supported, when they are led with compassion and trust, they perform.

If you could have someone else’s job for a day, who and what would it be? Why?

I love my job, so I hope to never have to consider this, but I would likely choose to do something to support special needs children. The therapists, caregivers and educators for special needs children are a special breed and have such an impact on the well-being and outlook for these children and their families.

What advice would you give to any aspiring Power Women?

Never allow someone else to decide what you are capable of. If you work hard, opportunities present themselves. Be open-minded to those opportunities — even if they were not on your preconceived career track — and bet on yourself.

What steps do you take to obtain a healthy work/life balance?

I prioritize exercise and I make a point to unplug and be one hundred percent present with my family. Finding balance is also something we stress at my company. We encourage employees to #TakeThePTO to spend time with family, recharge or simply get a break from work.

Which historical figure do you most identify with?

I can’t say there is one historical figure I identify with, but among those I admire are entrepreneurs. The difficulty, grit and passion required when trying to build something — in my case a performing company with a soul — resonates with me.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

Be present where you are. This is especially important to working parents who often feel their attention is divided. We can’t do it all, at all times, so be present where you are.

What is your favorite book (fiction or non-fiction)?

I like historical fiction. Honestly, lately I’ve spent more time reading with my kids than reading for myself.

What do you most value in your friends?

A sense of humor.

Which trait do you most deplore in yourself? In others?

I am working on rumination – a tendency I have that does not serve me well. Egoism is something in others that does not resonate with me. We need to remember that we are all just trying to do our best.

What do you consider the most overrated virtue?

I do not believe a virtue can be overrated. If it has meaning for some, it is valuable.

“Never allow someone else to decide what you are capable of. If you work hard, opportunities present themselves. Be open-minded to those opportunities — even if they were not on your preconceived career track — and bet on yourself.”