President and CEO, Symplicity Communications, Inc.

Catherine Ripley is a trailblazing entrepreneur, mentor, and advocate for women in technology and business. Overcoming immense personal challenges, including homelessness as a young mother, she built a thriving career and founded Symplicity Communications at age 39—without prior entrepreneurial experience. Under her leadership, the company has grown exponentially, securing landmark deals in the technology sector and nearly doubling revenue in the past year alone. A defining moment in Catherine’s journey is moving Symplicity Communications into the iconic space at 60 Monroe Center, a milestone that cements her company’s deep commitment to Grand Rapids’ business community. Having the building bear the Symplicity Communications name marks a new era of growth and influence for both her company and the city.

Catherine serves as a Board Member for Inforum and the serves on the Technology Council of West Michigan, continuously advocating for women’s leadership and innovation. She also hosts the Symplicity Conversations podcast, amplifying the voices of women in tech. Her dedication to excellence, integrity, and empowerment shapes a legacy of leadership that inspires others to rise above obstacles, embrace their potential, and redefine success on their own terms.

Catherine says, “I encourage women to reject limitations imposed by others and to prove—first and foremost to themselves—that they are capable of anything they set their minds to. When someone tells you that you can’t, the best response is to show them you absolutely can. I use my own story—going from homelessness with my two daughters to building a successful technology company—as a testament that circumstances do not define your future—your courage and perseverance do.”