What initially sparked your interest in IT, and what has your journey been like so far?
My passion for IT began early, thanks to my dad, a computer enthusiast. I grew up learning about hardware and enjoyed gaming. While it started as a hobby, in 2020, I decided to turn my passion into a career and found an IT helpdesk apprenticeship. It was challenging but rewarding. After two years, I decided I wanted to move away from the helpdesk and sought a role with more project work, leading me to join Tillo as a Junior IT Engineer. Since joining, I've expanded my skill set, been given more responsibility and have had the opportunity to learn from my talented colleagues. I'm excited for what the future holds.
Have you noticed any particular challenges or advantages you've experienced as a woman in this field?
While things are improving, I've definitely experienced moments where I've felt like I had to prove myself more than my male colleagues. Sometimes, it's subtle; being overlooked in meetings or having my technical expertise questioned. Other times, it's more overt, like encountering unconscious bias.
In my previous job, on more than one occasion I was mistaken for reception/admin staff just because I was female. I was also the only female technician at the company for the two years I was there. When I questioned why this was I was told ‘females rarely apply’. I’d turn up to jobs and be told ‘I’ve never seen a female technician before’.
It can be frustrating, but it's also motivated me to be even better and to advocate for other women. When I joined Tillo I asked my manager if any other women applied for the position, which to my surprise they had! I think this speaks volumes for how inclusive Tillo is as a company.
Have you had any mentors or role models who have been particularly influential in your career?
No one in particular, but seeing so many female engineers at Tillo is very empowering and influential!
Have you seen any positive changes or progress in gender equality within the IT industry during your time?
This is difficult for me to say, as I’ve only been in the industry for 4 years. Generally I think there is more awareness of the gender gap in the IT industry. More companies are implementing initiatives to attract and retain female talent, but there is still a long way to go.
What do you think are the most important skills or qualities needed to succeed in IT?
The IT field is constantly evolving, so it is important to have passion for learning and keeping up with the latest technology. You need a solid foundation of technical expertise, as well as strong soft skills including customer service, clear communication, efficient time management and problem solving.
What advice would you give to young women considering a career in IT?
If you’re thinking about it, do it! We need more women in IT. If you have no experience, start self-teaching, learn the basics of networking, hardware and operating systems. Look out for apprenticeships/courses/Junior positions in your area, that is your foot in the door! You may not find these opportunities straight away, but they will come if you persist. Once you get an interview, show them your passion and drive, that’s what they want to see.
Are there any resources, organizations, or communities you'd recommend for women in IT or those interested in joining the field?
Codebar is a fantastic charity that enables minority members, including women to learn coding. Their workshops are fantastic and it’s great to have one to one mentoring from experienced engineers. The womenwhocode.com community is a great source of news about women in IT.
