Deltek’s Rebecca Harness on progress at work, ahead of International Women’s Day
On 8 March 2026, women around the world will unite to demand equal rights, and equal justice to enforce, exercise, and enjoy those rights. Rebecca Harness, vice president and chief information security officer at Deltek, explains how women can forge new paths ahead in business – even when employers may still be dragging their feet on gender-parity.
International Women’s Day is a reminder that progress doesn’t happen by accident, it happens through action. Throughout my career, I’ve seen firsthand that the moments that create the most meaningful change are often those where someone chooses to give their time, their perspective, or their support to someone else.
The theme of ‘Give to Gain’ resonates deeply with me, because mentorship has never been a one‑way exchange. Every time I’ve invested in developing others, whether by sharing lessons learned, opening a door, or simply listening, I’ve gained new perspectives, built stronger teams, and found a deeper sense of purpose in my own leadership.
Early in my career, I benefited from leaders who believed in me, challenged me, and trusted me. That experience shaped how I lead today. I make it a priority to pay that forward today by mentoring emerging leaders, creating space for voices that may not always be the loudest, and building cultures where people feel supported to grow.
When women support women, the impact extends far beyond individual careers. We build more resilient organizations, foster stronger innovation, and create environments where the next generation can see what’s possible. I encourage leaders at every level to give—your time, your sponsorship, your encouragement—because what you gain in return is stronger people, stronger teams, and lasting progress for everyone.
