Watson Customer Engagement Account Executive, IBM
Ebanks-Texada has launched her career at IBM, where she is prospecting and generating business in the public sector, as well as nurturing leads for IBM’s signature product line, Watson. While Ebanks-Texada’s degree is in marketing, she is a product of the highly successful Professional Sales concentration at Jindal School. The curriculum emphasizes simulated and live sales throughout the program with most sales courses ending in competition-style events judged by industry executives and hiring managers.
How has your degree impacted your career?
It has provided me the means of independence and given me the proper skills and foundation in my field. It has also given me structure that is very visible to my superiors.
What do you enjoy about your current position/profession?
I enjoy the flexibility and the opportunity to challenge myself. There is always something new to learn.
What is a professional highlight of your career, either where you currently work or in the past?
For me, it was finishing Global Sales School with IBM. My team ranked first out of all the other teams in our cohort. It was a very challenging experience and there were many long nights of studying. The preparation, however, paid off. It was such a great experience overall.
Why did you come to UT Dallas?
I came originally to play basketball on the women’s team and become an engineer. I quickly realized that I had different interests and pursued a career in business instead. Plus, UT Dallas is one of the best universities in Texas. Who wouldn’t want to come, right?
What is your favorite UT Dallas memory?
My favorite memory is from my graduation when my brother, Airman First Class David Texada, who is in the U.S. Air Force, surprised me when I walked across the stage and got my degree. He was in Alaska and had told me that he would not be able to attend graduation. The last time I had seen him was in March. I had no idea he was coming. It was an amazing surprise and beautiful moment I will never forget. The entire gym stood up and clapped for me. UT Dallas helped make that day one of the best days of my life and I am forever grateful.
What advice do you have for college students hoping to succeed professionally?
Always be ambitious and take risks. You never know when an opportunity may come. Get comfortable with being uncomfortable. That is the only way to experience growth in yourself and professionally.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I enjoying doing makeup. It is my passion and I aspire to have my own cosmetic business one day.
