Linda Montgomery is redefining what it means to be a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry. As Vice President of Corporate Development and Investor Relations at ZenaTech, Linda’s journey from enterprise software to cutting-edge drone innovation reflects her versatility and visionary approach to the future of unmanned aircraft and the use of drones.
What excites Montgomery most about drone technology is its rapid transition from concept to real-world application. “Today’s regulation is opening up the airspace for the safe operation of commercial drones,” she explains. “Critical industries such as defense, logistics, delivery, agriculture, and energy actively use drones. I get to be part of a technology shift in drone usage that is truly transformative.”
From enterprise software expertise to leadership in autonomous drone applications
Montgomery’s unique leadership journey began with a business degree and a deep dive into the enterprise software industry. There, she learned firsthand how technology can scale on a global level. She mastered the art of cultivating recurring revenue models, acquiring and retaining customers to build transformative, sustainable businesses.
“That foundation has shaped much of my career over the past two decades,” Montgomery says. “It gave me a keen understanding of value creation and sustainable growth. Those are pivotal skills in my role at ZenaTech.”
ZenaTech, while primarily a drone manufacturer and tech solutions company, boasts strengths in software development and has acquired several enterprise software companies. For Montgomery, the company’s blend represents a fascinating intersection of hardware innovation in unmanned aircraft systems paired with software-driven artificial intelligence.
“My journey has really been about connecting the dots,” Montgomery observes. “I took what I learned in each company and now apply it to our work with drones. It’s been a natural progression into building a company that thrives at the convergence of software and hardware.”
Wearing many hats: Montgomery furthers various types of drone technology at ZenaTech for the future of drone programs
Montgomery’s role at ZenaTech defies categorization. She operates at the crossroads of investor strategy, M&A, business planning, HR, corporate communications, and brand growth, making her a pioneer in the future of drone companies.
Put simply? She’s found a way to bridge technical innovation and the broader business landscape. Her holistic leadership style enables her to participate in the quickly evolving drone market and actively shape its trajectory.
“My work is about ensuring that ZenaTech innovates by building drone solutions for business and commercial customers,” she says. “I’m also telling our story. Ultimately, I am helping to lay the right strategic and financial foundation for growth.”
In this competitive tech landscape, Montgomery believes growth must start with clarity. She focuses on understanding where ZenaTech can deliver the most value, then aligns technology, partnerships, and business strategy to meet those needs through commercial drone use.
“My work is about seeing the big picture while staying grounded in the real challenges our customers face,” Montgomery notes.
Linda Montgomery champions women who make drones work by turning challenges into opportunities
Navigating the male-dominated drone industry grants Montgomery a unique perspective. It’s shown her the importance of credibility and leading with conviction.
Montgomery is candid about the hurdles women face in tech, primarily visibility. “Women are still underrepresented in leadership,” she observes. “It takes extra effort to have our voices heard at the decision-making table.”
Yet, Montgomery views this challenge as fertile ground for opportunity. She asserts that women are natural builders and problem-solvers, with a strong instinct for collaboration and innovation. These are all qualities that are incredibly valuable in a fast-evolving industry like drones. By leaning into these strengths and supporting one another, women can advance their own careers and shape the future of the entire industry of commercial and consumer drones.
“One of my proudest achievements is leading a team predominantly composed of women,” says Montgomery. “I guide through mentorship and sponsorship. I create opportunities, bring women into rooms where key decisions are made, and give them the exposure they need to grow.”
Montgomery’s view is shared throughout the company. ZenaTech’s Toronto office currently employs twice as many women in managerial and director-level roles as men. This clearly highlights a commitment to female leadership.
Linda Montgomery’s advice for aspiring female leaders in emerging drone regulations, drone features, and drone use
Montgomery offers empowering advice to women venturing into emerging tech industries. “Own your expertise and step confidently into leadership roles,” she urges. “Don’t wait for permission to be at the table. Your perspective matters, and the industry needs it.”
Montgomery wholeheartedly believes that mentorship and supporting others along the way is the way forward. “I’ve seen firsthand how bringing women into key meetings, giving them exposure, and championing their growth amplifies impact for individuals and for the entire organization,” she says.
Instead of playing it safe, Montgomery charges women to lean into industries where they are underrepresented. She concludes, “Those lonely spaces are exactly where your voice, insight, and leadership can make the biggest difference. They’re where you can shape the culture and pave the way for the next generation of leaders.”
Soaring drones symbolize limitless possibilities, but Montgomery reminds us that it’s the people behind the technology, and especially trailblazing women, who truly define the future of aerial innovation.