While tech has traditionally been a male-dominated industry, many women are now entering the market, proving that gender is not a factor for expertise and ensuring a more inclusive, diverse, and vibrant technology landscape for the generations to come. This article spotlights three women who work in the technology department at CLIQ. They share with us what they like most about their jobs, why they chose a career in tech and what their advice is for women when it comes to working in this industry.
SARAH, SOFTWARE TESTER
Hi Sarah! What do you like the most about your job?
I enjoy uncovering hidden issues and defects that impact software functionality and user experience. It’s like being a detective and solving puzzles! Additionally, I appreciate the opportunity for continuous learning and staying updated with new technologies.
Did you always know that working in technology was what you wanted to do?
Yes, despite studying programming-oriented courses for five years in Engineering school, I experienced a conflict with my colleagues due to our differing mindsets. While they emphasised building things, my priority was to pursue perfection and customer satisfaction. To gain a deeper understanding of the customer’s mindset, I even studied marketing for a while. However, I eventually discovered my true passion in testing and now find great joy in every minute of my work.
What advice would you give to a woman considering a career in the tech industry? What do you wish you had known?
I do have two pieces of advice for you: Embrace your passion and interests by learning something new every single day and do not stop seeking out mentors and supportive networks.
SALONI, PROJECT MANAGER
What do you like the most about your job?
I love that I get to engage in diverse and challenging projects, all while collaborating with highly skilled individuals from a wide range of experiences and expertise. I really enjoy the problem-solving aspect of my job, where I get to analyse issues, find innovative solutions, and witness the tangible impact of my work. It is truly satisfying to see a project materialize and succeed through teamwork.
Did you always know that working in technology was what you wanted to do?
Oh yes, definitely! I have always been fascinated by innovation, particularly in the field of technology. As a member of a generation that experienced the peak of digital transformation, I witnessed the shift from Nokia “bricks” to revolutionary foldable touchscreen phones and the rise of virtual reality. Since I was young, I’ve been so curious about devices like mobile phones or computers, always eager to understand how they work exploring their settings and configurations whenever I came across one. This curiosity continues to drive me to learn more about how technology can improve our daily lives. It is this curiosity and passion that led me to choose a career in Tech.
What advice would you give to a woman considering a career in the tech industry? What do you wish you had known?
For women considering a career in the tech industry, my advice is: believe in your abilities and don’t let the gender disparity in the field intimidate you. Despite lacking role models or personal connections in engineering, I discovered my passion for technology at a young age and fearlessly pursued a degree in IT Engineering. Taking this leap of faith ultimately led me to pursue a career that I love.
JESSICA, FRONTEND DEVELOPER
What do you like the most about your job?
I love that I write code every day. Through code, I can create new features that start as blank files and become a functional and beautifully designed applications. I get to continuously challenge myself, learn new technologies and techniques, tinker with code, and find creative solutions to problems. I also greatly enjoy sharing and absorbing knowledge from my colleagues and collaborating with them to discover elegant and lasting improvements.
Did you always know that working in technology was what you wanted to do?
No, I had no idea I would, or would like to, work in the Tech industry. My education is in the Fine Arts and Production Design for Film and TV, and I previously worked in the film industry in London before moving to Amsterdam. In Amsterdam, I realised I wanted to make a change, so I took an intensive 1.5-year programming course where I learned to code in C and became hooked on the creative process of coding.
What advice would you give to a woman considering a career in the tech industry? What do you wish you had known?
The tech industry is an incredibly wide, diverse field. It might seem intimidating to start, especially later along a career journey like I did, but the potential within tech is limitless. There is something captivating about that and there is always space and a place for you. Coming from a visual arts background, I did not know if programming would be something I could understand, learn, or enjoy. Needing a change, I took the plunge with the hopes of developing a lasting, irreplaceable skillset I could take with me anywhere. I have achieved that goal and I’m happy that I found a new creative working outlet that will continuously challenge and excite me.
