Jan. 19, 2026

Leading with Courage: Laurie Oswald, Chief Commercial Officer at C&D Technologies on Building Strong Networks : Women in Tech Texas

In this inspiring conversation, Laurie Oswald, Chief Commercial Officer at C&D Technologies and leader at Trojan Battery Company, joins Espree Devora to share her career journey, leadership insights, and practical advice for women in tech. Laurie gives an overview of her role and the unique positioning of C&D Technologies and Trojan Battery Company—serving stationary critical infrastructure (like data centers and telecom) and motive power needs (such as golf carts and floor scrubbers) respectively. She reflects on entering the tech industry as a psychology major, first as a technical writer, and discovering her aptitude for technology through hands-on learning and network-building. Laurie emphasizes the importance of technical excellence and ongoing research, explaining that credibility is earned through deep knowledge, preparation, and staying current with industry trends. She discusses the power of leveraging both professional networks and experience to amplify impact. The conversation dives into Laurie’s leadership approach—centered on accountability, trust, and a “fail forward” mentality. She shares personal anecdotes about overcoming career obstacles, the value of mentorship, and how relationships have played a crucial role in her growth. Laurie discusses how her definition of success has evolved from individual achievement to enabling her team’s success and collaboration. Laurie also explores practical themes such as how to prioritize time across dynamic commercial responsibilities, what success means for C&D and Trojan’s customers, and key insights for sales and marketing: listening to clients, providing real solutions, and positioning rather than convincing. The episode closes with advice for her younger self, recommended reads (“Lean In” by Sheryl Sandberg), and her favorite tech tools (Microsoft Copilot). Notably, Laurie highlights her daughter’s job search in biomedical engineering, showcasing the supportive and network-driven spirit the podcast aims to foster. The discussion ends with energizing takeaways about taking chances, owning your seat at the table, and putting yourself out there—embodying the show’s motivating ethos: “If She Can Do It, So Can I.” --- Key Themes: - Career paths for women in tech - Building credibility through technical expertise - Importance of professional networks and mentorship - Leadership styles and learning from failure - Customer-centric commercial strategies in tech - Evolving definitions of success - The power of speaking up and asking for help --- This episode is perfect for anyone interested in actionable advice, relatable stories, and the mindset needed to thrive—no matter where you are in your tech journey.

Show Notes

Leading with Courage: Laurie Oswald, Chief Commercial Officer at C&D Technologies on Building Strong Networks : Women in Tech Texas

Host: Espree Devora
Guest: Laurie Oswald, Chief Commercial Officer at C&D Technologies

Episode Overview

In this inspiring episode of the Women in Tech Podcast, Espree Devora sits down with Laurie Oswald, Chief Commercial Officer at C&D Technologies. Laurie Oswald shares her unconventional journey from studying psychology to leading major commercial strategy in the technology and battery industry. She discusses breaking into tech as a technical writer, the power of building credible expertise, and the importance of leveraging networks. Listeners will gain insights into Laurie Oswald’s leadership philosophy, her approach to customer-centric strategy, and the essential role of taking risks in career growth.

Key Topics Discussed

Introduction & Career Journey

Laurie Oswald’s role at C&D Technologies and Trojan Battery
Differences between C&D Technologies and Trojan, and the unique markets they serve
Laurie Oswald’s transition from psychology major to tech industry leader

Breaking into Tech & Building Credibility

How she landed her first job as a technical writer and built expertise from scratch
The importance of technical competence and staying updated with industry trends

Networking & Mentorship

Leveraging professional groups and industry networks for growth
Stories of personal mentors and the value of supportive advisors

Leadership & Team Building

Laurie Oswald’s results-driven, “fail forward” leadership style
Building a diverse and high-performing team and empowering others

Customer-Centric Strategy

Serving data centers, telecom, utilities, and the motive power market (like golf carts and industrial applications)
The importance of listening to customer needs and offering the right technical solution, rather than focusing on “convincing”

Personal Stories & Advice

Overcoming setbacks: a personal story of failing to secure a major deal and the leadership lesson it provided
Advice Laurie Oswald would give her younger self: build relationships early, don’t keep your head down, and leverage the power of mentorship

Book & Tool Recommendations

Book: “Lean In” by Sheryl Sandberg for women in leadership
Must-follow: Simon Sinek (“Start with Why”)
Favorite tech tool: Microsoft Copilot for productivity and safe AI-powered work

Women Supporting Women

Laurie Oswald discusses her daughter’s journey in biomedical engineering and the importance of putting your goals or needs out into the community
The power of speaking up—“If you’re invited to the meeting, you belong there”

Memorable Quotes

“Credibility isn’t given, it’s earned. The fastest way to earn credibility is through technical excellence.” – Laurie Oswald
“Relationships amplify your impact.” – Laurie Oswald
“Don’t be afraid to take chances. When you do, it shows leadership and adaptability.” – LaurieOswald
“If you’re invited to attend the meeting, you belong there. Don’t hesitate to take your seat at the table.” – Laurie Oswald

Connect with the Guest

LinkedIn: Laurie Oswald

Additional Resources

C&D Technologies: Powering critical infrastructure with industrial batteries
Trojan Battery Company: Leading deep-cycle batteries for industrial and utility vehicles

Closing

Thank you for tuning in to the Women in Tech Podcast with Espree Devora and Laurie Oswald! Make sure to connect with Laurie on LinkedIn and join the Women in Tech community for more empowering stories and career insights.

Remember: If she can do it, so can you!

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