Kanouff is a multi-hyphenate who has left a giant mark on the media and cable ecosystems. She embraced digitization early and played roles in the creation of groundbreaking services like video on demand. She credits longtime Time Warner Cable executive Jim Ludington as a male ally who took an active role in including her in male-dominated circles. “I attribute much of my wealth of meaningful connections to him—speaking at industry events and meeting many wonderful people, who have become friends and colleagues for life,” she says. Kanouff currently serves as vice chair of the Cable TV Pioneers and won a Lifetime Achievement Emmy for Engineering and Technology in 2020.
Do you have an example of male allyship that made a difference to you?
When I started in this industry, women comprised fewer than 6% of those employed in the technical space, so it follows that as an engineer and technologist, most of my colleagues have been men. As such, my supporters, mentors, and allies have also been men. One such ally is Jim Ludington, who brought me into the cable industry. He took an active role in introducing me to industry colleagues and including me in typically male-dominated discussions and circles. I attribute much of my wealth of meaningful connections to him – speaking at industry events and meeting many wonderful people, who have become friends and colleagues for life. He is a great example of someone who was a ‘male ally’ long before the phrase was even coined.
Best advice for someone looking to re-enter the workforce after a hiatus?
It’s a great time to enter the workforce after a hiatus—now more than ever. There is a significant shortage of people-talent, especially in light of the ‘Great Resignation’ phenomenon that has emerged from Covid-19, and a record number of job openings. In fact, recent data shows that nearly two-thirds of Americans are looking for new jobs as we speak, creating an unprecedented amount of new openings. My biggest piece of advice?
Go for it now! It will be important to demonstrate that you’ve kept abreast of the latest industry trends and developments. A hiatus is a wonderful opportunity to recharge and refocus. Own it with pride and articulate why this makes you a ‘ready-to-go’ contributor in the workplace.
