“Don’t be limited by feeling like you can only be a coder, you can be an artist, a doctor, an attorney, a teacher, etc… in the tech sector!”
Tell us a little bit about what a typical day looks like for you.
What I love about being in the tech industry is that every day is different, and there is no “typical” day for me. I usually start by checking emails at home before I get to the office, so I can ensure any priority items are addressed right away. From there my day can involve many different aspects from reviewing contracts, to examining a difficult visa processing case, helping with healthcare benefits renewals, or updating our company insurance policies. My roll covers so many areas, which is what I love about operations!
How do you stay passionate in your career?
I love learning about new things, and our CEO encourages our growth both professionally and personally. This support helps me to continue to find new ways to evolve my role within the company, and to help my team members do the same.
Did you have a traditional path into tech (i.e.: CS/IT degree transitioned into tech job)?
I did not have a traditional path. My undergrad degree is in Hotel/Restaurant Management. However, I do find that many of the principles used in that field can truly help for a better employee experience when applied to the customer (employee, client, etc…) interactions we have in the tech sector.
Are there any apps, software, or tools you cannot live without?
I love my stars on my gmail! I can color code my stars to make for more efficient follow ups, and tackle emails of a similar nature all at the same time. Gmail also has a task list I can keep open on my sidebar. Since I use email for all most all that I do, these two tools are essential for keeping organized!
It’s common knowledge that women and femmes often face obstacles in the tech industry based on their gender. Have you ever had to deal with this type of experience and if so how did you handle it?
Occasionally I do feel as though I am not heard. In a particular leadership meeting, I suggested an idea, and was quickly shot down. About 20 minutes later a male gave the same feedback, and it was embraced. I did make sure to share with the team that I had already mentioned the same. For me personally, if I found I am not being heard, I try to provide the detail behind my new idea or my feedback. Providing the supporting information to bolster my idea helps to give the team the context to understand why I am asking for something. If they can better understand it, they will be more likely to respond favorably. Metrics are extremely helpful here!
What’s your favorite thing about being a part of the #womenintech community?
I am proud to be able to show my daughter and my son that a woman can be a strong leader, and still be a mom. The efforts I put forth are rewarded, and hard work matters. I want them (particularly my daughter) to know that they are not limited by what society or others say they are designed for.
What is a piece of advice you would give to others wanting to or currently pursuing a career in tech?
I would tell others that there are so many ways to be involved in the tech sector. Don’t be limited by feeling like you can only be a coder, you can be an artist, a doctor, an attorney, a teacher, etc… in the tech sector!
Tell us about a time you felt extremely accomplished in the past year.
I really felt like I had solidified myself as a woman in tech when speaking at our local Southwest Communities Chamber of Commerce event. The topic was Technology in 2028, and I was excited about the speech I gave that day. Many people commented that it blew them away. It also made me feel good to be in tune with all of the changes that are happening in the world around us, and that we are helping to create the change!
Favorite quote:
If at first you don’t suceed, try, try again!
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