KRISTIN JOHNSON

CEO & CO-FOUNDER, HOTWIRE COMMUNICATIONS, FORT LAUDERDALE

In 2002, Johnson co-founded Hotwire Communications, now a national leader in fiber optic technology. It provides voice, video and internet services to homes across Florida, California, the Carolinas, Georgia, Nevada, Pennsylvania and Texas. “I am passionate about empowering women in engineering and expanding opportunities for the next generation of tech leaders,” she says. “At Hotwire, we actively recruit female engineers and support STEM programs that introduce young students to science and technology early on.”

EDUCATION: Lawrence University (BA)

FIRST JOB: Some of my earliest childhood memories are helping my grandparents in their stores. I’d help customers, take inventory, and help with the books. Their work ethic inspired me to become a businesswoman.

DREAM ALTERNATE CAREER: If I could choose an alternate career, I’d still aspire to be a CEO — leadership has always been my passion. Even in my earlier career as a chef, I owned restaurants and ran a successful catering business. I’ve also founded and led multiple tech companies. No matter the industry, I’m driven by the challenge of building strong teams, growing innovative businesses and creating environments where people can thrive and succeed.