DC Tech Media Recognize Dee Dee Helfenstein, Dr. Lauren Neal, Jinnyn Jacob

The DC tech sector is thriving. “Our region has a vibrant innovation ecosystem that is one of the most important in the United States. Advanced technologies that drive the country’s economy are nurtured here and further developed and deployed by our highly talented workforce and entrepreneurs,” wrote entrepreneur Jonathan Aberman in The Washington Post on February 19, 2018.

This November, two media organizations that cover this ecosystem in depth recognized three women from Booz Allen for their roles as leaders, connectors, and contributors.

Senior Vice President Dorothy “Dee Dee” Helfenstein, Principal Lauren Neal, Ph.D., and Senior Innovation Strategist Jinnyn Jacob were named among DCA Live’s NEW Power Women of DC Tech for 2018. Through its events and digital media, DCA Live recognizes the region’s fastest-growing companies and most dynamic professionals.

“The NEW Power Women of DC Tech include company founders, executives, engineers, and community connectors,” said Doug Anderson, DCA Live founder and president. “They’re emerging leaders and/or doing extraordinary things.”

Dee Dee leads Booz Allen’s Solutions Business, which is responsible for developing leading edge digital, cyber, immersive, and AI solutions as well as leading the partnerships and tech scouting capabilities for the firm.  Lauren leads data science and artificial intelligence initiatives for clients across civil and military health organizations. She also founded the Booz Allen Women in Data Science group. Jinnyn leads partnerships for Booz Allen’s Innovation Center, a place where talent, clients, and the greater innovation community come together to co-create solutions to global challenges.

“We are passionate about supporting the DC innovation ecosystem and applying innovative thinking and leading-edge technologies to help our clients work smarter, faster and better.  We are also passionate about supporting women in STEM careers and supporting women entrepreneurs access to capital, mentors, and partners across the DC tech community,” said Dee Dee Helfenstein. “It’s an honor to be in such great company with the NEW Power Women of DC Tech.”

“In data science and AI, the DC women in tech are doing truly amazing things,” said Lauren Neal. “I’m excited to see what’s next in 2019.”

Jinnyn was also named among 2018’s 50 on Fire by DC Inno, which has been covering the local innovation ecosystem since 2011. She was recognized in the Community & Investment category for her role in the region’s startup entrepreneurial ecosystem and as a champion for inclusive innovation.

“Women in DC are leading in technology, government, entrepreneurship, healthcare and more. I’m honored to be included in such a prestigious group,” said Jinnyn Jacob.

Jinnyn was among the first group to receive DC Inno’s new Inno Blazer. The award, a wearable red blazer jacket, recognizes “top companies or people trailblazing new paths and blazing the brightest in their category.”

“We’re looking at people, companies, and organizations that have had a banner year in the District’s innovation economy,” said Alex Fleming, DC Inno marketing and event manager. “In 2018, we wrote several hundred stories and over 250 newsletters about local innovation. We know who’s on fire.”

Learn more about 50 on Fire, DCA Live: the NEW Power Women of DC Tech, and how Booz Allen supports women in the workplace.