Listen to this article

Gina Y. Abate

President & CEO
Edwards Performance Solutions

Fifteen years after founding his company, Edwards Performance Solutions, Steven S. Edwards realized in order to achieve the next level of business growth, he needed a different set of leadership and business skills. That person was Gina Y. Abate, a well-known and seasoned leader in the technology industry. Edwards hired Abate as his senior vice president in 2013 and three short years later, Edwards relinquished his CEO duties to Abate.

“As CEO, Gina controls all business development and operations, allowing me to focus on vision and community outreach. As the founder, stepping back from daily operations is difficult, but Gina’s competency, similar morals and approach to business situations allows for extreme trust,” Edwards said.

Under Abate’s leadership, Edwards has continued to grow despite declines in the federal marketplace. Abate expanded Edwards’ customer base beyond government business and expanded solution offerings to include cybersecurity. The company has seen an 83 percent revenue growth since Abate joined the firm.

She also serves as chair of the Cybersecurity Association of Maryland, using her skills to strengthen and extend the organization’s reach and advocate for the cybersecurity industry.
As CEO, Abate sees her role as an adviser and facilitator. Her leadership philosophy is simple — lead by example.

“Great leaders must remain confident, encouraging and progressive. I strive to be a positive, motivating force each day — fostering ideas and innovation. I stay active in our market, which motivates my team to continuously learn and remain on the leading edge of solutions in our field,” Abate said.