Simone Bielsker
Program Director of IT, American Staffing Association
In this episode, host Cecilia Sepp speaks with Simone Bielsker, Program Director of IT at the American Staffing Association and a member of the AWTC Programming Committee. Simone shares her unexpected journey into the association world, her transition from membership to IT leadership, and her passion for data-driven decision-making. She also reflects on the power of community through AWTC and encourages professionals—regardless of title—to get involved in the growing intersection of associations and technology.
Cecilia Sepp (Host):
Hello, and welcome to this edition of AWTC Presents HerStory, a series where we feature our AWTC members. I’m your host, Cecilia Sepp. I’m also an AWTC member and currently serve on the Marketing Committee.
I’m excited to welcome Simone Bielsker to this episode. Simone, would you like to say hello and tell us a little about yourself?
Simone Bielsker (Guest):
Of course. My name is Simone Bielsker, and I serve as a volunteer on the AWTC Programming Committee.
In my day job, I’m the Program Director of IT at the American Staffing Association. I’ve been with ASA for nearly 21 years—coming up on 21 this August, which is wild to think about.
I’m also a career changer. In 2019, we decided it was time to move off the AMS we had been using for over two decades. I raised my hand and volunteered to lead the effort. I had no idea what I was getting into, but I’m so glad I took the chance.
I led the search, selection, and implementation process, and now I focus on IT program management. Technology touches every aspect of an association today. It’s no longer just about making sure computers run. IT aligns business goals, staff needs, and customer experience. That gives me the opportunity to collaborate across the organization, drive adoption, and position technology as a strategic asset—especially when it comes to data. It’s an exciting time, and I’m grateful I made the transition into IT.
Cecilia Sepp (Host):
How did you get started working with associations?
Simone Bielsker (Guest):
I like to joke that I started in kindergarten. But after graduating college, I took a job with a large tech company and thought I was on my way. Nine months later, I was laid off.
I started sending out resumes widely—marketing, sales, anything that seemed like a fit. I hadn’t chosen a defined career path yet. One of those resumes went to an association for a Director of Membership position. At the time, I didn’t fully understand what associations were.
During the interview, I knew immediately it was the right fit. I even told the president interviewing me, “This is the job I want.” He became my mentor for many years, even after he left the organization.
I stayed there for seven years and became completely hooked. I briefly considered leaving the association world, but I realized how powerful community is—people coming together to build something greater than themselves. That’s what I wanted to be part of.
Eventually, I joined the American Staffing Association as a membership manager, and today I serve as their IT Program Director.
Cecilia Sepp (Host):
What’s a time when you felt really good about your work?
Simone Bielsker (Guest):
Honestly, most days.
Of course, there are challenges—things break, projects don’t go as planned. But each challenge is a learning opportunity. I love to learn. If it’s a documentary or a podcast, send it my way. I enjoy thinking about things differently and turning lemons into lemonade.
I focus on projects more than day-to-day operations, and there’s nothing like watching a project cross the finish line. Coaching others to help them succeed is incredibly rewarding.
Even during long projects, there are small wins—moments of alignment, clarity, or improvement. Every meeting, every prototype, even when feedback is “That’s not exactly what I was looking for,” is a learning opportunity.
Recently, I worked on data projects and learned advanced Excel skills I never knew existed. I loved it. I’m happiest when I’m learning something new and when I’m helping move something forward.
My work feels like a good book. A great book has ups and downs—it builds tension, creates momentum, and delivers a satisfying conclusion. Then you start a new book and begin again.
Cecilia Sepp (Host):
What advice helped you in your journey as a woman in technology?
Simone Bielsker (Guest):
Rebecca A. Church encouraged me to get involved with AWTC, and that changed everything.
AWTC offers networking, knowledge-sharing, encouragement, and most importantly, community. My colleagues have pushed me to step into leadership roles I might not have pursued otherwise. Their encouragement has made a huge difference.
Cecilia Sepp (Host):
Where do you see technology leading associations in the future?
Simone Bielsker (Guest):
Technology is no longer just a support function. It’s embedded in everything associations do.
Two major areas stand out:
Data-Driven Decision Making
It’s all about data—and more data. Associations will increasingly rely on data for strategic decisions, marketing, engagement, and personalization. The broader economy is already heavily data-driven, and associations will claim their place in that ecosystem.
Hyper-Personalization
Members no longer simply “show up.” Expectations have shifted. Attention spans are short, and audiences expect tailored experiences.
New generations are digital natives. I remember talking on a corded kitchen phone. My kids have never seen one. Personalization is no longer optional—it’s assumed. Associations that fail to adapt risk being tuned out entirely.
Cecilia Sepp (Host):
What do you like best about AWTC?
Simone Bielsker (Guest):
AWTC is an incredible blend of growth, support, and community.
I’ve gained mentors, new ideas, and leadership opportunities. I feel a strong sense of belonging among people who share similar goals, challenges, and successes.
AWTC creates space to expand your skills and take chances. It’s about lifting up women in association technology and helping each other grow personally and professionally. And it’s fun. I genuinely enjoy the work and the connections.
Cecilia Sepp (Host):
Why should someone get involved in AWTC?
Simone Bielsker (Guest):
You don’t need a tech title—every association role touches technology in some way.
I’d answer that question with another question: What are you looking to gain?
Career growth? Networking? New ideas? Mentorship? Support? Community? It’s all there.
AWTC is your community, and we’d love to have you.
Cecilia Sepp (Host):
Thank you, Simone, for joining us for this episode of AWTC Presents HerStory. As you can see, Simone is a passionate and engaged member of AWTC.
Everyone has a unique story within AWTC. We encourage you to explore what the community has to offer—from networking events and conferences to awards programs and our active Slack community.
Thank you for joining us for HerStory. We’ll see you next time.