Founder of Syssero and Systics, Jacksonville, FL

Please introduce yourself and describe your career. What do you do for a living?

I’m Amber Lowry, and I’m the founder of Syssero and Systics, two companies at the forefront of Workday innovation. Syssero is a consulting firm that provides top-tier Workday advisory and implementation services with a focus on employees mostly being from end client experience, while Systics is our real-time system analytics tool designed specifically to optimize Workday performance.

Throughout my career, I’ve focused on leveraging technology to empower organizations. With Syssero, we help clients navigate the complexities of Workday, ensuring they maximize value from their investments. Systics takes that further by providing actionable analytics in real-time, enabling businesses to make smarter, data-driven decisions.

My passion lies in creating in both entrepreneurship and technology, and I’m driven by a commitment to helping companies achieve their goals through innovative solutions. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the impact we’re making in both consulting and technology spaces.

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

As a kid, I wanted to be a veterinarian. I’ve always loved animals, and it felt like the perfect fit. But once I started reading about what most vets actually do on a daily basis, I realized it wasn’t quite what I had imagined. So, I quickly pivoted and decided to explore my creative side, which led me into the fine arts.

That shift ended up being a big part of my journey. My background in the arts taught me how to think creatively and see things from different perspectives, which has been invaluable as I’ve built Syssero and Systics. It’s funny how early dreams can change, but they still shape who you become in unexpected ways.

What did you study? How much schooling do you think is required to get into your role? What could you have skipped?

I started with a liberal arts degree, planning to focus on fine arts. But after realizing that I’d mostly be designing what other people wanted, I switched to marketing, hoping to stay close to the creative process. Even then, it didn’t feel quite right, so I pivoted again to business, thinking at least I’d be the one deciding what needed to be designed. That’s when I found my footing, creating structures for effeciency and it really set me on the path to where I am today with Syssero and Systics.

I’ve also pursued a master’s degree at Harvard, where I completed algorithm and technical courses. Interestingly enough, I found the technical parts manageable, but it was some of the less practical, more academic courses that I struggled with. Academia and the real world are so different, and that’s where I realized the value of hands-on experience. I haven’t completed the degree yet, but I hope to eventually.

In terms of how much schooling is required, I believe education builds a strong foundation, but the most important lessons come from experience and being adaptable. If I could do it over, I might have skipped some of the formal coursework that didn’t align with my goals.  I would probably recommend certification and real world experence over a “fromal” degree. For anyone aspiring to a similar role, I’d recommend staying flexible and focusing on practical, real-world experience.

Was your path hard or smooth getting to where you are in your career? (Can you briefly describe what it was like on your journey so far?)

It’s definitely been a journey full of both challenges and growth. My path hasn’t been smooth, but it’s those bumps along the way that have shaped me. Switching majors, learning new industries, and founding two companies—Syssero and Systics—were all big milestones, but there were also personal challenges that had a huge impact on my career and life.

Going through a divorce at 29 with a two year old and then becoming a mom were life-changing experiences that no college course could ever prepare me for. Later, I remarried and became a stepmom to two amazing kids, which brought the challenges and joys of blending families. Balancing all of that with growing a business has been tough, but it also taught me resilience, time management, and empathy—things that have been crucial not only in my personal life but also in running my companies full of amazing human beings that have life happen each day.

Life has a way of throwing unexpected things at you, and navigating through it all—both the personal and professional—has made me a stronger leader and more adaptable in everything I do. It’s been hard at times, but those experiences have shaped the way I approach challenges, and I wouldn’t trade the journey for anything.

Walk us through your typical work day—when do you start, end, and do all day? (Where do you work from?)

Every day is different, but I try to maintain a structured routine to stay grounded. I typically start my day around 6:30 AM. I like to have some quiet time in the morning, whether it’s enjoying a cup of coffee or getting in a quick workout to clear my head before diving into work. After that, it’s straight into meetings, strategy sessions, or project planning, depending on the priorities for Syssero and Systics.

Since both companies are fully remote, I work from home, which gives me the flexibility to be present for my family while still staying connected with my teams. We use a lot of tools like Slack, Zoom, and project management platforms to keep everything running smoothly. My workday is a mix of client calls, employee 1-on-1’s, team check-ins, and handling the big-picture strategic decisions for both companies. I also spend time reviewing new innovations for Systics and making sure our clients are getting the best service possible at Syssero.

My day usually wraps up around 5 or 6 PM, but that can vary depending on what’s going on with clients or projects. After that, it’s family time. We’re a blended family, so making time for my kids and stepkids is really important to me. Evenings are all about being with them and just enjoying some downtime together.

Balancing work and family can be a challenge, but working remotely helps me stay flexible. It’s a lot to juggle, but I thrive on the variety and love that I get to make an impact both at home and in my work.

What are some questions someone should really ask themselves if they want to get into your industry / career path?

If you’re thinking about getting into consulting, tech, or entrepreneurship, especially in the Workday space like I did with Syssero and Systics, there are a few key questions you should ask yourself:

Am I adaptable and willing to pivot?
Technology is constantly evolving, and the needs of clients change just as fast. You need to be prepared to adapt, whether it’s learning a new tool or shifting your business strategy. Ask yourself if you can handle that level of uncertainty and change.

Do I have a genuine passion for solving problems?
Consulting and building solutions aren’t just about implementing a system—they’re about helping clients solve real business challenges. You have to love problem-solving and be ready to dig deep to find creative solutions.

Can I handle the pressure of entrepreneurship?
If you’re considering starting your own company, it’s important to understand that the highs are really high, but the lows can be tough. It requires resilience, long hours, and sometimes taking on roles you didn’t expect to. Ask yourself if you’re ready for that kind of commitment.

Am I willing to continuously learn?
In this industry, learning never stops. From new software releases to industry trends, you need to stay on top of developments. Are you committed to investing time in continuous education?

Can I manage client relationships effectively?
Building and maintaining client relationships is at the core of this industry. It’s not just about delivering a project—it’s about building trust and long-term partnerships. Ask yourself if you enjoy working with people and are willing to put in the effort to maintain those relationships.

How do I handle uncertainty and risk?
Whether it’s a consulting project or launching a product like Systics, there are always risks. Some things will go wrong, and you’ll have to be okay with that uncertainty. Are you comfortable navigating through those tough moments?

If you can answer these questions honestly and still feel excited about the path ahead, then this industry can be incredibly rewarding. It’s challenging, but it offers endless opportunities for growth and innovation.

What do you enjoy most about your career? (What do you enjoy least?)

What I enjoy most about my career is the ability to create and lead something that has a tangible impact. Founding and growing Syssero and Systics has allowed me to blend my passion for technology with my desire to solve real-world problems. Watching our solutions empower businesses, particularly in the Workday ecosystem, and knowing that our work is making a difference is incredibly rewarding. Additionally, I cherish the opportunity to mentor and support other women in their career journeys. There’s nothing quite like seeing someone you’ve guided flourish and achieve their goals

What I enjoy least is knowing that, as much as I've built companies to empower those around me, these companies don't fit everyone’s needs. It's a reality that despite our best efforts, our solutions may not resonate with or be accessible to every individual or organization. This can be disheartening because my goal has always been to create inclusive and impactful businesses. However, it also serves as a reminder to keep striving for growth and to continuously listen, adapt, and evolve in ways that might bridge those gaps in the future.

What tools/resources do you frequently use? (Books, podcasts, mentors, wellness habits, software, etc.)

I rely on a combination of tools and resources to stay grounded, inspired, and effective in my career. Books are a constant source of knowledge and inspiration; I’m particularly drawn to those that explore leadership, innovation, and personal development. As an example I’m currently writting this blog post with three books in my luggage. I also listen to podcasts/audio books that focus on entrepreneurship, technology, and women in business.

Mentorship plays a significant role in my life as well. I’ve been fortunate to have incredible mentors who’ve guided me, and I now strive to pay it forward by mentoring others. This exchange of ideas and experiences is invaluable.

In terms of wellness, I prioritize mindfulness and exercise to maintain balance. Regular yoga sessions and meditation help me stay focused and manage stress. Lastly, when it comes to software, I lean heavily on tools like Slack, Smartsheets, and Workday, of course, to keep my teams connected, organized, and aligned with our goals.

What is something you do when things get difficult? How do you handle stress/ challenges?

When things get difficult, I turn to my 'kitchen table'—a trusted group of individuals who keep me grounded and honest. Inspired by Michelle Obama's concept, my kitchen table consists of people who aren’t afraid to tell me how it is, but who also encourage me to strive for my best. They remind me of my strengths, help me see challenges from different perspectives, and provide the support I need to navigate tough situations.

In addition to that, I focus on mindfulness practices like meditation and yoga to manage stress. I find that taking a step back, even briefly, helps clear my mind and reset my approach. I also remind myself that challenges are an inevitable part of growth. Instead of shying away from them, I try to embrace them as opportunities to learn and evolve.

What advice would you give to someone who is trying to figure out what they want to do (for work) in general?

My advice to anyone trying to figure out their career path is to start by exploring what genuinely excites you. Pay attention to the activities, topics, or problems that you find yourself naturally drawn to, even outside of work. These interests often hold clues to what could be a fulfilling career.

Introspection is also key. Taking the time to do self-evaluations using tools like DISC, the Enneagram, or Myers-Briggs can provide valuable insights into your personality, strengths, and areas for growth. Understanding yourself on a deeper level can help you align your career choices with who you truly are, rather than who you think you should be.

It’s also important to be open to experimentation. Don’t be afraid to try different roles, industries, or projects, especially early on in your career. Each experience, whether successful or not, will teach you something valuable about what you do—or don’t—want in your work life.

Another key piece of advice is to seek out mentors or a support network, like my ‘kitchen table,’ who can provide guidance and honest feedback. These individuals can help you see your strengths, identify opportunities, and navigate challenges as you explore different paths.

Lastly, be patient with yourself. Figuring out your career is a journey, not a destination. It’s okay if you don’t have all the answers right away. Stay curious, keep learning, and trust that over time, your path will become clearer.

Do you have any mentors or key pieces of career advice that helped you get to where you are today?

Yes, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have had several mentors throughout my career who have played a significant role in my development. One of the most impactful pieces of advice I received early on was to always be a lifelong learner. The tech industry evolves rapidly, and staying curious and open to new knowledge has been crucial for my growth.

Another key piece of advice that has stayed with me is the importance of resilience. A mentor once told me that setbacks are inevitable, but it’s how you respond to them that defines your career. This mindset has helped me navigate challenges and view them as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles.

Additionally, having a 'kitchen table'—a group of trusted individuals who provide honest feedback and support—has been invaluable. These are the people who keep me grounded, push me to strive for my best, and remind me of my purpose, especially during difficult times.

Overall, the combination of mentorship, a commitment to continuous learning, and surrounding myself with a strong support network has been instrumental in getting me to where I am today.

Amber before and now

What excites you about the future OR what's up next for you in the near future? (Could be career-related, life-related, or even a future career pivot / path)

What excites me most about the future is the opportunity to continue building and evolving both Syssero and Systics. We’re at a pivotal moment where the intersection of technology and business strategy is creating incredible opportunities for innovation, and I’m eager to see how we can further empower organizations through our solutions.

In the near future, I’m particularly focused on expanding the capabilities of Systics, our real-time system analytics tool for Workday. I believe there’s immense potential to push the boundaries of what’s possible in terms of real-time data insights, and I’m excited to lead that charge.

On a more personal note, I’m also looking forward to mentoring more women in tech and business. I’m passionate about helping others find their path and succeed, and I see this as an integral part of my journey moving forward.

As for future career pivots, I’m always open to new challenges and opportunities that align with my passions. Whether it’s exploring new technologies, investing in startups, or diving deeper into leadership development, I’m excited about the endless possibilities that the future holds.

Where can readers find/connect with you if they have questions? OR How can we support you? 

I love connecting with others who are passionate about technology, leadership, and business growth. You can find and connect with me on LinkedIn, where I regularly share insights and updates about Syssero, Systics, and the industry as a whole. I’m always open to engaging in meaningful conversations, so feel free to reach out if you have any questions or ideas to share.

If you’re looking to support our work, one of the best ways is by spreading the word about what we’re doing at Syssero and Systics. Whether it’s sharing our content, recommending our services, or simply engaging with us online, your support means a lot. Additionally, if you know of organizations that could benefit from our expertise in Workday consulting or real-time analytics, we’d love to connect with them and explore how we can help.