“Concordia helped expose me to thinking outside the box. It was very open and innovative, and allowed me to grow both as a person and professionally.”
When startups are up and running, Concordia grad Lydia Chicles helps them soar.
Chicles is the CEO of BOLD! Technologies, a software-development firm based in central Florida that develops strategies for mid-level companies to get an edge in their business and grow their share of the market.
“We use great technology to support incredible ideas. It’s really thinking about the business around these ideas and how it can create new opportunities for people within that sector,” Chicles says.
These strategies involve developing mobile applications, web platforms and the technology around them, as well as research, patents and licensing. BOLD! also uses its network to connect entrepreneurs with investment firms, advisors and other professional resources that can help take startups to the next level.
Concordia’s influence
“Concordia helped expose me to thinking outside the box. I was always working in a very collaborative environment on very cutting-edge type technologies. It was very open and innovative, and allowed me to grow both as a person and professionally.”
Biggest career challenge
“I’ve always felt like a bit of an outsider in the industry. I come from an arts background, leading a technology company as a woman on in my mid-40s. I’m not exactly what most people would expect.”
“I think I’ve earned the respect I deserve, in my area. It’s been a challenge, but it’s also been an opportunity for growth.”
Proudest moment
“My proudest moment would have to be in 2018 when I was honoured by the Orlando Business Journal as a Women Who Mean Business.”
“It was so humbling, yet I felt proud because I felt I was not only receiving that award for myself but for any woman in technology. It’s a very male-dominated field and it takes a lot of courage, grace and grit to get through some of the initial difficulties.
“That’s why although BOLD! is a technology company, I always like to say our tagline is dream, develop and design.”