Trish Millines Dziko

Trish Millines Dziko is a software engineer, educator, and social entrepreneur focused on advancing equitable access to technology and educational opportunities for students of color. Dziko earned a Bachelor of Science in computer science during a period when few people of color and few women entered the field. Over nearly two decades in the technology sector, she observed persistent underrepresentation of Black, Latino, Native American, and Pacific Islander professionals despite significant industry growth.

After relocating to Seattle and joining Microsoft as a program manager, Dziko became active in diversity initiatives, eventually serving as a senior diversity administrator. She traveled nationally to recruit technically trained professionals of color, encountering a limited pool of candidates. During her tenure at Microsoft, Dziko helped organize Blacks at Microsoft, the company’s first diversity-focused employee resource group.

Recognizing that limited access to computers and technology contributed to the lack of diversity in the tech industry, Dziko co-founded the Technology Access Foundation, a Seattle-based organization dedicated to providing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) skills to children of color. She became the foundation’s full-time executive director after leaving Microsoft and contributed more than $150,000 of her own funds to establish the organization.

The Technology Access Foundation employs an equity-driven STEM program that emphasizes critical thinking and project-based learning, integrating technology into instruction across all subjects. The organization builds inclusive environments by fostering strong relationships between teachers and students and connecting students with professionals in technology-related industries. Through its STEMbyTAF academic model, the foundation works to redefine STEM literacy and promote educational equality in communities of color and those with low income.

Under Dziko’s leadership, the foundation transitioned from out-of-school programs to become a statewide leader in public education, co-managing two public schools—TAF at Saghalie in Federal Way and Washington Middle School in Seattle. The organization partners with public schools to promote student learning and increase the number and retention of teachers and leaders of color in Washington State. Dziko also led the creation of the Network for EdWork, designed to recruit, retain, and develop teachers of color for Washington State public schools. Her work has evolved from direct engagement with students and families to addressing systemic issues, including effective teaching and anti-racist practices in public education.

Dziko is the author of the book "This is the Work," which outlines transformative changes for public schools. In her TEDxSeattle talk, she discussed the need for reform in public education teaching techniques, advocating for schools that develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills in every student. Dziko has appeared on Oprah and has been contacted by individuals nationwide interested in launching similar educational equity initiatives.

Dziko’s recognition includes the YWCA Dorothy I. Height Racial Justice Award, the US News 100 Women Leaders in STEM distinction, the Seattle Business Magazine Tech Impact Champion award, and the Senator Maria Cantwell Women of Valor Award. She also received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from Seattle University for her contributions to diversity in the technology industry. Dziko is a featured TED speaker, board leader, and advocate in the national conversation about educational equity and the future of public schooling.