In 2025, WBENC continues its legacy of honoring exceptional women business owners through the WBE Star Award. Each WBE Star has been hand-selected by one of the 14 Regional Partner Organizations, with a special focus this year on honoring those who embody the spirit of “ACCELERATE” by championing progress, growth, and advancement for themselves, their businesses, and the communities they serve. The WBE Star Award stands as a powerful acknowledgment of the profound impact these extraordinary women have made throughout their careers, shaping industries and inspiring lasting changes in their communities.
The 2025 WBE Stars will be celebrated throughout the year, culminating at the vibrant WBENC National Conference from June 23-26, 2025, in New Orleans, Louisiana. This dynamic event will serve as a hub for business excellence, innovation, and networking. Thousands of attendees will gather to celebrate the strength and rich tapestry of the WBENC Network. It will be a time to recognize the ongoing contributions of entrepreneurs and change makers, including the 14 exceptional WBE Stars, who are ACCELERATING impact across the network.
Meet Sheila Jordan, Founder and CEO of Knowledge Architects Inc., with the Greater Women’s Business Council Regional Partner Organization. Sheila Jordan, affectionately known as the “Queen of Transportation Transformation,” has led Knowledge Architects for over 16 years. Her innovative use of 3D and AR has revolutionized industrial maintenance training, setting new standards in the transit industry. Sheila’s expertise in organizational development and learning technology integrates traditional instruction with cutting-edge XR development.
Sheila and her team at Knowledge Architects share a sense of urgency about ensuring the competitiveness of the American workforce, rapidly advancing worker proficiency through digital “work and learn” solutions.
She is a respected leader in both the civic and professional arena who has been honored by her peers for her accomplishments in the industry.
Get inspired by Sheila’s insights and stay tuned for more wisdom from other 2025 WBE Stars throughout the year!
Knowledge Architects, Inc. is transforming work through immersive technologies and accelerating workforce performance. Following the 2008 financial crisis, Sheila Jordan saw an urgent need for training and updating staff’s skills all around her, as life and work had transformed for everyone. In 2010, Knowledge Architects was born, and the team began working with companies to enhance employee capabilities with innovative tools and technology; They sought to provide a creative approach to working effectively in a dynamic environment. The Knowledge Architects team brings immersive technologies like 3D Animation, AR Work instructions, and VR Simulations to empower employees to realize their full potential.
Wisdom from WBE Star, Sheila Jordan
What does “ACCELERATE” mean to you in the context of the WBENC network?
In the context of the WBENC Network, “ACCELERATE” signifies a commitment to fast-tracking the growth and success of women-owned businesses with a range of programs and opportunities designed to support business development and growth. In our current environment, it will be imperative for WBENC’s vast network to support WBEs with targeted business opportunities, increased visibility, and resources that help women entrepreneurs thrive.
Provide an example of how Environmental, Sustainability or Governance initiatives have helped you overcome a challenge, pivot, or adapt your business.
The U.S’s Electric Fleet Transition Initiative perfectly exemplifies how ESG initiatives have helped our company adapt its business model. Without the push to electric and cleaner, more fuel-efficient technologies, our XR4 Transit division would not exist. We created this division specifically to address the lack of electrical skills among the current workforce and the inability to hire and train new workers with the required skills to manage and maintain these complex fleets.
What is one of your proudest achievements in your business journey?
I came back from the brink of losing my company during COVID-19 when all of my public sector clients shut down. I really didn’t think I’d be able to recover from the devastation of losing 80% of my business over a year. Since then, we’ve grown threefold.
What legacy do you hope to leave in the business community?
I want to empower business owners and leaders by providing them with the knowledge, tools, and resources they need to succeed.
By fostering a culture of continuous learning and development, I hope to inspire others to reach their full potential and achieve their business goals.
What suggestions would you like to share with a newly certified WBE who is looking to get involved in the WBENC community?
Be proactive!
1. Attend Events: Participate in WBENC events, both virtual and in-person.
2. Utilize WBENC Resources: Take advantage of the resources available through WBENC, such as educational programs, webinars, and mentorship opportunities.
3. Network Actively: Build relationships with other WBEs, corporate members, and government entities
4. Engage in Committees: Consider joining a WBENC committee or working group.
5. Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with WBENC news, updates, and opportunities.
Learn More about Knowledge Architects, Inc.
