” I am pleasantly surprised with how much I can use my degree, and think it’s so cool that women can join the tech industry with any background.”
Tell us a little bit about what a typical day looks like for you.
Growing a company from the ground up requires building a strong foundation. For a start-up, we are growing quickly and I want to ensure that our team has everything they need. My day includes making lists and more lists. We are beginning to build the Human Resources department here at RoadBotics and there is always another document or process to create. I am also constantly checking in with the team to ensure they are set up for success.
How do you stay passionate in your career?
RoadBotics provides a great space to work in and offers an innovative product. It is the energetic people that drive us forward and they truly inspire me.
Did you have a traditional path into tech (i.e.: CS/IT degree transitioned into tech job)?
No, I originally came from a background in psychology with a masters in Developmental Psychology. I am pleasantly surprised with how much I can use my degree, and think it’s so cool that women can join the tech industry with any background.
Are there any apps, software, or tools you cannot live without?
GoogleMaps for traveling, Enlight photo editor, and wordreference for translation.
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?
I think it is more of a mental barrier from switching fields. There are a lot of women in psychology – especially developmental psychology. I never thought about obstacles in that field related to my gender. However, now in tech and in general business, I find myself wondering if I have as much influence as before — not only by being a woman in a male-dominated field, but also by having and using more “soft” skills from my educational background.
What’s your favorite thing about being a part of the #womenintech community?
Getting a chance to change perspectives – to drive diversity and inclusion.
If applicable, how have you given back to the WIT community?
As the People Development Coordinator, I want to help promote WIT by encouraging women to apply for positions in the tech industry even when it may seem like a male-dominated field.
What is a piece of advice you would give to others wanting to or currently pursuing a career in tech?
Don’t let failures or other people bring you down, just learn from them and keep trying.
Tell us about a time you felt extremely accomplished in the past year.
I would say finding my voice – being able to feel confident in my background and perspective against opposing views.
Favorite quote:
At first glance it may appear too hard. Look again. Always look again.
— Mary Anne Radmacher
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