Authenticity in action: Joy U.’s journey to meaningful work

Joy U. has one piece of advice for anyone starting their career: Be your most authentic self. No matter the industry or role, Joy believes that staying true to who you are is the key to long-term success.

As a technical project manager currently serving as the Chief of Staff for the Workplace Technologies subdivision of Information Technology (IT), her career journey at Vanguard is a testament to how authenticity can shape a meaningful and impactful career. Keep reading to learn how Joy found her path and purpose in tech.

Finding the right fit  

I didn’t always envision myself in a technology role: I actually started college as a biology major, but quickly realized it wasn’t the right fit. After switching my major to marketing, I spent a summer doing temp work at a software company, which sparked my interest in technology.

Seeing software built in a small New Jersey office, being used to train people around the world, opened my eyes to the global impact of technology. The experience inspired me to change my major again—this time to Management Information Systems.

Around that same time, a close friend had just joined Vanguard and told me about the Technology Leadership Program. He spoke highly of Vanguard’s mission-driven culture and opportunities within tech. The next day, I went straight to Vanguard’s table at the career fair and handed in my resume. I had a phone screening the following week, and the rest is history.

Leading with authenticity

Authenticity can be a superpower. Early in my career, I thought success meant always having the right answer, always being polished. But over time, I learned that being real—about challenges, trade-offs, and even uncertainty—builds trust faster than perfection ever could.

Saying “I don’t know, but I’ll find out” instead of bluffing, shows honesty and a commitment to getting it right. And when things go sideways, owning up to a mistake and showing how to bounce back doesn’t just solve the problem—it sets the tone for the whole team. Authenticity requires vulnerability. It fosters stronger relationships and leads to better outcomes in the long run.

As a project manager, technologist, and people leader, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing Vanguard’s deep commitment to crew development—not just in technical skills, but in leadership, visibility, and purpose. My growth has been shaped through a combination of online courses, formal leadership programs, conference participation, and—most impactfully—rotational opportunities and mentorship.

Rotations across different departments and access to thoughtful mentors have helped me build a diverse skill set and grow into leadership roles. Each experience has expanded my toolkit and strengthened my ability to support our products and teams. I’m proud to be a part of a company that recognizes potential, invests in it, and celebrates it.

Real conversations make real connections 

What I love most about my job is the opportunity to do meaningful work while building strong, authentic relationships. I’m energized by initiatives that align with Vanguard’s mission and values—whether it’s driving strategic programs, mentoring new crew, or contributing to inclusive leadership efforts.

However, it’s the people who make the work truly fulfilling. I’ve had the privilege of collaborating across departments, learning from wonderful mentors, and creating spaces where psychological safety and trust are the norm. These relationships have helped me grow not just as a professional, but as a teammate and friend.

Meaningful work and meaningful connection—that’s what keeps me inspired every day.

-Joy U.

Learn more about IT opportunities at Vanguard.