Baltimore Entrepreneur Translates Human Biomarkers Into A Health Score
Teresa O'Keefe, after many years of working for others, is using her technology background to launch her own product in the health technology field.
O'Keefe earned her bachelor's degree in computer science and economics from Towson University, and her master's in business from Johns Hopkins University, Carey Business School.
What inspired you to start your current enterprise?
"In 2005, I was hired at ConnectYourCare, one of the leaders in consumer-driven health care (CDH). I learned a lot about going to market with a consumer health care product. I saw the need for a tool available to consumers to self-direct their health care more efficiently. My start-up translates seven biomarkers into a health score similar to a credit score. It enables consumers to know their behavior-based health risk. It is called MyBodycount."
How does your educational background relate to your current role?
"As founder of a start-up, I did it the long way. I have nearly 30 years of career building blocks behind me. I don't believe you can cheat; you have to be very good at something first - then pick a market and understand it better than anyone."
How has your education helped to further your career and contribute to your success?
"In the beginning, my education and grades opened doors for me. My team introduced email, networks and put PCs on everyone's desktop at Black and Decker. My education also enabled me to be promoted into management at a young age. I remember, early at Black & Decker, my colleagues laughed at me for spending my spare time reading industry press; but I saw how fast IT was changing and I wanted to stay ahead."
What is some advice you can offer others looking to go into your field?
"First of all, keep your brain in constant learning mode; become a sponge. Also, it's important to specialize and to be the 'best' at a skill within your organization. If there is room to be promoted, you have to understand your industry. You have to be intrigued with the industry. If it's not intriguing, then become the best at what you do in the world."
Susan Brown originally spent many years in banking/finance before confronting her addictions. She has now been in recovery for 20 years. Her current interests, in which she has several certifications, are metaphysics and the healing arts. She has written for Examiner.com since 2009 and also writes for Om Times.
