LaToya Gilbert: Ensuring Equitable Technology Solutions; Empowering the Next Generation of Tech Innovators

Problem solving is LaToya Gilbert’s passion, particularly when it involves coaching and connecting people with resources. She channels this passion through diverse endeavors – from inspiring the next generation of tech leaders at Elevance Health, to spearheading professional growth opportunities among her colleagues.

In her role as program director for the digital platforms and AI organization (DPAIO), Gilbert provides strategy and planning for information technology (IT) solutions. She helps teams across the company translate the needs of their customers into shaping the technical solutions that we build for members and care providers. Collaborating with business and engineering teams, she helps ensure solutions are simple, and free of bias.
 

How does your work advance Elevance Health’s purpose to improve the health of humanity?

I am certified in performance consulting — a behavioral engineering strategy that addresses problems holistically by considering tools, resources, education, training, capacity, incentives, and motivation.My experience at Elevance Health spans IT, learning and development, and contact center operations. This diverse background gives me a unique perspective to make informed decisions for members and care providers, ensuring effective and inclusive communication, and driving impactful change management strategies.
 

What is your role in the African American Professional Exchange (APEX) Business Resource Group (BRG)?

As enterprise chair, I lead membership strategies, professional development, health equity, and community engagement. APEX local chapters team up with Elevance Health Foundation, affiliated Medicaid marketing teams, and community partners such as the Boys & Girls Clubs, and Feeding America, to serve their communities. I also lead the Coffee & Career chat, one of my favorite APEX initiatives. It’s a virtual discussion open to all associates, covering career development and topics aligned with our organization’s core values: integrity, diversity, leadership, community, and agility.
 

What work achievements are you especially proud of?

Over the past three years, I've received 10 company awards for my impact through BRGs and my work to advance our organization’s culture strategies. I’m a leadership coach, guiding new managers on topics such as giving and receiving feedback, and managing difficult conversations.

I also take great pride in mentoring associates through the Elevance Health IT Apprenticeship Program. This transformative program offers underserved youth, including those who have a history in foster care, a path into IT. Apprentices receive full-time, on-the-job IT training, while studying a computer science-related field in college. After earning their degree, they have the opportunity to transition to a permanent role within the organization. 
 

What is your professional advice for associates?

NETWORK, NETWORK, NETWORK. Create a plan of where you want to go and set goals and milestones to get there. Get involved in projects that challenge and expand your skills. Understand how your work contributes to the organization’s broader goals and supports members. Also, connect with a mentor (or a few), and leverage company resources and development programs.
 

How do you maintain your health and well-being?

Spending time with friends and family. I’m a single mom and love snuggling with my amazing daughter, Avery. I find ways to fill my cup, when it is low or empty, through conversations, experiences, food, funny memes, and I start and end my days with music.
 

Tell us about your community involvement.

I’m a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., where I serve on the scholarship committee and the mentoring and development governance team. I’m also secretary for the B.M. Williams Primary School Parent Teacher Association.
 

What are your interests or hobbies?

I’m a published writer and editor, I spent 10 years as a traveling hair model, and I love action movies, thrill rides, Denver Broncos football, and all things University of Virginia!