First woman to hold the role in 15 years
ATech’s Managing Director, Sarah-Jane Peterschlingmann, has been elected Chair of the Australian Computer Society (ACS) Queensland Branch Executive Committee (BEC) for the 2026/2027 term, marking a significant milestone as she becomes the first woman to hold the position in 15 years.
Ms Peterschlingmann, who has served as Vice Chair of the ACS Queensland BEC, brings a strong record of championing industry advancement, supporting regional and emerging leaders, and fostering diversity and inclusion across the technology ecosystem. In 2024, she was awarded an ACS Fellowship - one of the highest honours in the ICT industry.
Over many years, Ms Peterschlingmann has made significant contributions to ACS initiatives, volunteering countless hours to support the organisation’s mission, and has represented ACS as a speaker and panellist at numerous events.
In addition to her work with ACS, Ms Peterschlingmann has served on several advisory boards for QUT, UQ and CQU, and has supported multiple organisations including Women in Technology (WIT), Women in Digital, QUT Women in Technology, as well as acting as Entrepreneur in Residence for two innovation hubs.
Ms Peterschlingmann said, “Serving as Chair of ACS for the 2026/2027 term is a tremendous honour and my focus will be on delivering even greater value for ACS members across Queensland. Over the past two years, we've made significant progress in strengthening our regional presence, and that work will continue. Looking ahead, our priority is to elevate the overall member experience to expand professional development opportunities, deepen industry collaboration and ensure ACS continues to be an essential partner in every Queensland member’s tech career journey.
“One of the things that makes ACS truly special is the genuine sense of community and inclusion across our membership. ACS has a rich heritage, and it was wonderful at a recent ACS lunch to see retired women and men in their 80s and even 90s sitting alongside those just starting their careers at university or TAFE. That connection across generations is incredibly inspiring and a reminder of the lasting impact our profession can have.
“I look forward to continuing to work closely with our community to build a stronger, even more connected and impactful ACS.”
Mr Mathew Eames, Outgoing Chair of ACS Queensland BEC, said, “Over the past two years, while I served as Chair with Sarah-Jane as my Vice Chair, her support and shared vision for the ACS have been truly inspiring. As I transition to Immediate Past Chair and Sarah-Jane steps into the role of Chair, I’m excited to continue supporting her and the vision I know she has for our members.
“Sarah-Jane’s contribution to ACS over many years has been nothing short of extraordinary. Her unwavering dedication to giving back to the community, driving meaningful change across the industry and supporting the next generation of technology professionals has been truly inspiring. She is a respected thought leader whose insights, energy and commitment have strengthened ACS at every level. I am confident that under her leadership, ACS will continue to grow its impact, relevance and value for members across Queensland.”
The newly elected ACS Queensland BEC comprises distinguished professionals dedicated to driving innovation and excellence within the industry:
Branch Chair: Sarah-Jane Peterschlingmann FACS
Vice Chair: David Rudduck FACS CP
Hon Treasurer: Nick Brant FACS CP
Hon Secretary: Peter Yeates MACS (Snr) CP
Ordinary Committee Members: Zaya Bayarsaikhan MACS, Michele Berkhout MACS, Jay Davis MACS CT, Benjamin Smith MACS (Snr) CP, Neil Wood FACS CP
Ms Peterschlingmann is an investor, entrepreneur, business adviser and technology enthusiast who regularly speaks on the topics of technology, innovation and leadership. She is a featured author of the international bestseller “Wholehearted Leadership Revolution”. Her raft of awards include the 2022 Queensland Pearcey ICT Entrepreneur of the Year.
Starting as a web developer, Ms Peterschlingmann grew ATech from humble beginnings to an award-winning company with multi-million dollar revenues delivering cloud hosting and web development for mission critical websites.
ATech specialises in catering for high scalability, availability and security requirements, and has built and hosted websites and web apps for local organisations including Virgin Australia, Seqwater and Brisbane City Council.
*FACS = Fellow of the Australian Computer Society
*MACS = Member of the Australian Computer Society
*CP = Certified Professional
*CT = Certified Technologist
