This year marks the 10th anniversary for the Women's Network in Electronic Transactions (W.net) an organization that supports the advancement of women in the payments industry. In the following Q&A, Linda Rossetti, W.net President and President of Bluestone Payments LLC, discusses the significance of this milestone and what's in store for W.net's future.
GS: What have been W.net's major achievements?
Linda Rossetti: W.net now serves more than 1,000 women each year at our local and national events. It is so important to provide a forum for women to connect either virtually or in person. We are privileged to work with and help train talented volunteer leaders across the country. As our mission statement supports, W.net's major accomplishments center on inspiring and empowering women in payments. When bosses encourage their employees to get involved in W.net because it is good for business, it is a win for the career success of women leaders, as well as for the organization.
GS: Are more women assuming leadership roles in the industry now? If so, how has W.net factored into that?
LR: Yes, there is a marked increase in the number of women in leadership roles; many of them are W.net members. Through W.net's professional development, mentoring and networking opportunities, we are providing women in payments the much-needed skills to support their personal and professional growth. Our job is still not done, but I believe that women at any level can be leaders. Our support system provides the resources and leadership training to help women realize their potential. GS: How has the organization evolved since its inception?
LR: W.net was started by women who saw a need in the industry and worked diligently to create a support network for women in payments. W.net has grown in terms of both membership growth and volunteerism and has become a force in the payments space for supporting women. Each year we have seen an increased interest from companies wanting to get involved in corporate and membership sponsorship opportunities for their employees. The possibility to expand W.net and dream at even higher levels is unlimited.
I started W.net's first Local Interest Network Circle (LINC), and most recently we added our 12th LINC city. We even hosted our first international LINC event in London. The possibilities are endless, and it is amazing to see the growth of connecting women on the local level. Through this evolution, many friendships have been forged, and it has been the foundation for many business transactions. W.net has provided a forum for great memories and has created numerous business opportunities for women to conduct business with women. It's been exciting to watch and be part of.
GS: What are W.net's goals for the next decade?
LR: W.net has big plans for the next 10 years. With the payments industry changing so rapidly, we are strategically working to continue providing resources to women in payments. W.net's board of directors, our volunteer leaders and our staff look forward to the next 10 years of contributing to the growth of the next generation of women in the industry. 
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