In the heart of the South, amidst the delta landscapes of Mississippi, Gary Plowden's journey began. Raised in Cary (near Rolling Fork) and Hattiesburg, he was fueled by a passion for learning, studying, and devouring books. Yet, in these small towns, opportunities were scarce, pushing Gary to seek out avenues beyond his immediate surroundings.

His path took a pivotal turn when he discovered the potential of technology and decided to pivot towards becoming an IT specialist. Basic training at Fort Moore (previously Benning) and Fort Eisenhower (previously Gordon) laid the foundation for his journey, leading him to his current post with the North Carolina Army National Guard.

However, Gary's aspirations extend far beyond personal success. With a deep-rooted commitment to giving back, he harbors a vision of guiding younger soldiers and teenagers towards the vast possibilities within the realm of technology. Recognizing the importance of representation, Gary aims to establish networking events that embrace diversity, providing a platform for minority veterans and young individuals to explore the tech landscape.

Central to his mission is his involvement with Blacks in Technology, a global nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering underrepresented communities in the tech industry. Through this affiliation, Gary seeks to enhance his own skills and to spread awareness and knowledge about the transformative potential of technology.

In honor of Black History Month, APG Emerging Tech, itself a minority and LGBT-owned consulting firm based in Georgia, sponsored an annual membership to another great organization named BLK Men in Tech. This organization provides access, resources, and community to for Black men within the tech industry and those that are interested in entering the space. The organization received dozens of applicants and the recipient of the annual membership was none other than Gary Plowden.

APG Emerging Tech's mission resonates closely with Gary's own values. By focusing on thoughtful design and serving clients in crucial sectors such as financial services, healthcare, and the public sector, the firm embodies a commitment to improving lives through innovation and inclusivity. Its core values are empathy and stewardship.

Gary Plowden's journey from the delta of Mississippi to becoming an example of empowerment in the tech industry exemplifies the transformative power of passion, perseverance, and a commitment to uplifting others. Through his endeavors, he not only aims to realize his own potential but also to pave the way for a more diverse and inclusive future in technology. Our team could not be more excited that Gary is the recipient of the membership and we look forward to following his growth and how he leverages BLK Men in Tech to expand awareness and access for those coming behind him. 

Thank you Gary for your service, your commitment to diversity in technology, and your passion to share your experiences with others.