Lauren Schwartz is a technology expert, entrepreneur, and designer with over 25 years of experience in the tech industry working for startups as well as some of the world’s most recognized companies including Microsoft and Digital Equipment Corporation (now part of HP). With an eye toward making technology usable, approachable, and affordable; Lauren has a keen understanding of how it can improve the operations of business and the lives of individuals. Lauren has a focused knowledge of the opportunities technology can provide in addressing social issues, especially healthcare. She believes that technology is a medium to enable change, and she works to inspire others to see these possibilities.
Lauren has been the CEO of TechWise Group, a Philadelphia-area technology company, since 2010. In July of 2011, Lauren negotiated a management buyout of the company with a progressive vision; to reshape the way information technology services are delivered to small and medium sized businesses. Lauren has led the company to become the leading Microsoft Cloud Partner in the SMB market in the region, capped by being awarded Microsoft’s Cloud Partner of the Year for 2015 in the Eastern US. Lauren and TWG have enhanced the company’s expertise and presence in healthcare, legal services, non-profits, and education. In October of 2012, TechWise Group acquired Ergo IT Solutions.
In previous roles, Lauren has worked with technology products including Microsoft Windows, Windows Server and Small Business Server. In addition, she has extensive expertise in technology for healthcare having worked on electronic personal health records and technology-enabled patient engagement solutions for several large organizations. Lauren’s depth of knowledge and expertise include entrepreneurship, business strategy, software design, managing and leading teams, product strategy, business development, technology management and user experience design.
Lauren graduated with honors from the Institute of Design at the Illinois Institute of Technology, with a BDES in Product Design while minoring in Computer Science. She was the 2013 Co-Chair for the Philadelphia Women in Tech Summit. Lauren has also been the Philadelphia Chapter President for the International Association of Microsoft Channel Partners and regularly volunteers for TechGirlz.Org.