2025 Virginia Black Business Leaders Awards: Toni Stubbs

Stubbs was recognized in 2022 with the annual Women in Technology Award, presented by multiple cable telecommunications organizations. At Cox, Stubbs oversees network planning, engineering and telecommunications operations across the state, but she started with the company in Texas in 2005. She’s also Virginia chapter adviser for the Women in Cable Telecommunications board.

FIRST JOB: The “lotto girl” at a convenience store. I operated the lottery machine before automation, manually entering three- and four-digit numbers in every possible combination.

WHY I CHOSE MY PROFESSION: I’ve always had an analytical mind and have worked in tech throughout my career, with my introduction to the cable industry early on. Engineering offers endless opportunities for learning and growth. It is the foundation to the internet. Being part of what connects people globally is both fascinating and exciting, which is why I’ve stayed in the industry for over 20 years.

HOW I GIVE BACK: I’m actively involved in my church, working with the youth ministry. I also serve on the board of Envision Lead Grow, an organization focused on empowering girls to move from poverty to prosperity. I willingly support organizations like the Hampton Roads Chamber, where I share my experiences and expertise on panels and other events.

MEANINGFUL AWARD I’VE RECEIVED: The Women in Technology award from CableFax, WICT and SCTE was incredibly meaningful to me. It recognized my contributions in a field where women are often underrepresented. This award not only validated my hard work but also reinforced my commitment to empowering women in technology and continuing to break barriers in the industry.