Emmanuella Vernet, DCS, a dedicated and accomplished lead engineer at Fancy Awesome, has built a diverse and multifaceted career in information technology. With a Doctor of Computer Science from Colorado Technical University, Dr. Vernet combines academic expertise with hands-on industry experience, making her a standout in her field. Her academic journey also includes a master’s degree in computer software engineering from Walden University, a bachelor’s degree in information technology from Kaplan University, a master’s degree in nanoelectronic devices from Université de Provence, and a bachelor’s degree in physics from Aix-Marseille University. This extensive educational background has provided her with a deep foundation in both software engineering and the physical sciences, a combination that informs her approach to complex technological challenges.
Dr. Vernet began her career with roles that allowed her to gain practical skills in management and engineering, such as her early positions as a shift manager at McDonald’s and a front-line supervisor at BJ’s Wholesale Club. Her technical journey took off as she pursued internships in electronics engineering at institutions including Purdue University and the Centre Interdisciplinaire de Nanotechnologie de Marseille. These roles were crucial in honing her expertise in nanoelectronics, a field that would later support her software engineering pursuits. Since then, she has gained extensive experience in software engineering and has worked with major companies, including McMaster-Carr, as lead software engineer, and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, known as OCC, as a senior associate in software engineering.
At Fancy Awesome, Dr. Vernet leads a team of developers, ensuring that each team member has clearly defined responsibilities and productive workflows. She works closely with clients to understand their project requirements and collaborates with designers and project managers to see projects through to completion. In addition to her industry work, she has embraced academia as an adjunct faculty member at Colorado Technical University and East Coast Polytechnic Institute University, where she finds fulfillment in mentoring students and passing on her extensive knowledge of computer science. Dr. Vernet is particularly proud of her teaching roles, seeing them as a way to invest in the next generation of engineers and foster a greater understanding of computer science.
Throughout her career, Dr. Vernet has actively pursued professional development. Her certifications, including three from LinkedIn in 2022 and a certificate in business administration from Aix-Marseille University, highlight her commitment to staying current. Additionally, she serves on the opportunity and training committee for the Graduate Information Technology Association and is a member of both the International Society of Female Professionals and BDPA. Her engagement with these organizations reflects her dedication to networking and her belief in supporting and uplifting women in technology.
Dr. Vernet attributes much of her success to the support of her family and her tenacity in overcoming challenges. She believes that acknowledging and working on her weaknesses is essential, even when it means stepping outside her comfort zone. This mindset, coupled with her drive to learn and grow, has enabled her to consistently advance in her career. Her proactive approach and focus on understanding both the high-level goals and technical details of each project set her apart from her peers. She approaches each assignment with the aim of contributing to long-term, sustainable solutions that add real value to the client and her organization.
Looking ahead, Dr. Vernet hopes to transition into a more advanced leadership role in information technology while maintaining her responsibilities as a lead engineer. She envisions becoming a senior engineering manager or director, having an even greater impact on system architecture and guiding the direction of large-scale projects. She values mentorship and enjoys working closely with her team members, making leadership roles a natural fit for her aspirations. In the longer term, she hopes to retire from full-time industry work but plans to continue her part-time teaching role, staying connected to academia and the field of computer science.
Dr. Vernet is distinguished by her curiosity and eagerness to exchange knowledge with her peers. Her favorite part of the profession is the dynamic learning environment and the opportunity to connect with like-minded colleagues. As a leader, she values open communication and strives to foster a collaborative atmosphere within her team, where each member can contribute and grow. While she currently engages in freelance work, Dr. Vernet’s goal is to secure a full-time remote position that will allow her to continue to advance professionally without the demands of a daily commute. She remains open to new challenges and seeks roles that will allow her to leverage her extensive technical and managerial experience. For Dr. Vernet, each step forward is a chance to further develop her expertise, make meaningful contributions, and leave a lasting impact on the world of technology
