Role Models

Role models. Most of us have had one. Many of us have been one. All of us need one.

Positive role models are those people in life who - with both their words and deeds - have had an impact that has made an indelible difference.

On October 6, the Silicon Valley Leadership Group & Fry's Electronics are honoring two women role models with our second annual "Shattering the Glass Ceiling" Award. This year, we will recognize and celebrate former state senator Becky Morgan and former County Supervisor Susie Wilson.

Both Becky and Susie are strong, creative, successful women, who blazed a trail of public service in a way that has made the road easier for other women and girls to follow.

As a man, why do I care about trailblazing women who have made a mark in the valley? First and foremost, I'm a dad of two little girls. They've never met Becky Morgan or Susie Wilson, but their paths in Silicon Valley have been made better by the work of these two extraordinary leaders.

As an employer, the women on my team benefit daily by the policies and programs these two former public officials championed.

Today, as we go about our business, think about the mark you are making. In your actions and attitude, what behavior are you modeling to those around you? Anyone can make an impression. Let's do our best to make an impact.

Game Changers

Butkis, nada, zero, none, zilch.

That is the precise number of jobs created in the entire United States in the month of August.

This week, the President will lay out a "jobs plan."

In the past two weeks, we have heard "jobs plans" from Governor Brown and members of the state legislature.

Here's a suggestion - as elected officials lay out their "jobs plans," first consult those who create jobs . . . Entrepreneurs, CEOs and innovators who invest creativity and capital to actually hire people.

Without a single new job created in America in august, it is not time for the "same ole, same ole." What are the game changers in your jobs plan that are going to make a difference?

This is why the Silicon Valley Leadership Group is hosting our inaugural "Game Changers" summit the morning of September 13.

In the innovation capital of the world, we will interact directly in spirited discussions with the game changers who create and grow jobs with the specifics of what is needed to get America, California and Silicon Valley moving.

Join us at game changers on September 13. For more information, go to svlg.org.