GirlGeek of the Week
January 2001

Laura Tidwell

Getting an early start on her road to success, Laura Tidwell entered Brigham Young University at only 16-years-old and majored in communications with an emphasis in advertising. In 1992 at the age of 19, Laura caught a glimpse of her future in technology when she moved to California and jump-started her own marketing company called Circulation Sales Inc. Soon, she was convinced of the enormous possibilities that lie in the technological advancement of the Internet world.

Since that realization she has not only sought out existing methods for advancing the technology of her Internet advertising business, but she has also created her own proprietary media buying technology. "Bidsite", an automated system for online media buying, took the industry by storm in 1999. Today, Laura has taken media buying technology to a new level of performance through her web-based technology, AdOctane.

When did you first discover your love and/or obsession with computers and technology?

At 19 years old when I started my first company (a sales and promotions company) and realized that I couldn't run a business without having a solid grasp on technology.

How do you earn a living?

As President and CEO of Enginehouse Media and AdOctane.com.

Do you consider yourself a Geek?

Perhaps, but I have found that by becoming too much of a geek, you lose touch with non-geeks. Losing that 'common touch' can be detrimental no matter what business you're in.

What is your favorite Website?

The website I visit the most is www.internet.com. It contains the best information on everything from IT to Marketing.

What do you do when you are not working?

I love being a mother to my two children and center my free time around them (although I have to admit that all the while, I'm usually THINKING about work when I'm not working).

Who is the person you most admire?

Elizabeth I