05/04/2026
At ITC, our Women in Leadership program doesn't stop at certification. Every graduate is paired with an executive mentor for a one-year engagement. Today we're spotlighting WIL graduate Kelsey Lisenbe, Sr. Manager, Technology at Fox Corporation, and her mentor Nick Szymanski, COO at Ellkay. These two even found time to meet up at one of Nick's favorite San Diego spots when he was in town in 2024, showing that the best mentorships are as much about real connection as they are about professional growth.
Here's what they had to say:
Kelsey: "My career has been nothing short of a roller coaster. At some point on the ride, I was nominated for the Women in Leadership - CIO program. I still don't know who put my name forward—but whoever you are, I owe you dinner!
My first feeling was anxiety. Networking has never been my thing, but a voice in my head told me to just say "yes." After 15 weeks of being inspired by my cohort and guest executives, I was paired with my CIO mentor, Nick. Over the last two years, Nick has been my strongest sounding board. He’s passed on "Nick-isms" and wisdom from his own mentors, reminding me that leadership is really about how you pass it on.
Huge thanks to the ITC Group, Nick and my cohort. Being a woman in technology has its challenges, but this program does more than teach leadership—it helps us find our voices, find support, and navigate those challenges together."
Nick: "I’ve had the privilege of knowing Kelsey for the past few years, and it has been incredible to watch her step confidently into her strengths and accomplish so much along the way. Her dedication, drive, and authenticity consistently stand out, and I couldn’t be more proud of everything she’s achieved. I’ve also learned from Kelsey, especially through her thoughtful perspective and steady determination, which continue to inspire those around her. Nicole’s mentorship program is truly fantastic, intentionally designed to foster growth while showcasing the real power of networking and meaningful connection. It creates space for emerging leaders to thrive, and I feel very lucky to have played even a small part in such an impactful experience."
Thank you, Nick and Kelsey, for showing us what mentorship in action really looks like!
