Social media handle(s): LinkedIn
A few words about me:
I am a Lead Software Quality Assurance Engineer, however my journey in tech began as a web designer. I still enjoy building websites for fun whenever I get the chance. These days, as a busy parent, I’ve swapped sitting down with a good book for listening to audiobooks on Audible, which has been a wonderful way to keep up with my love for stories.
A fun fact about me is that I’m a certified beekeeper, which is quite a contrast to my career in tech. Outside of my role as a Lead QA Engineer, I’ve also authored a children’s book titled "Power of Dreams: Aspiring Little Heroes," which inspires kids to dream big, believe in themselves, and embrace their potential.
Are there any professional experiences you've had that are quite unexpected compared to what you do nowadays?
After earning my degree in Information Technology, I joined my family's apiculture business while searching for a role in the tech industry. During that time, I gained hands-on experience setting up and managing beehives, as well as harvesting honey. I also put my tech skills to use by designing and managing the business website, blending my interests in both fields.
Is your background more STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) or non-STEM related?
My background is strongly rooted in STEM. In high school, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in computing. This passion led me to earn a degree in Information Technology, followed by a Master’s degree in Management of Information Systems.
Where did your professional journey start?
At university, I discovered my passion for web design and working on web-related systems. Friends would reached out to me for help with their websites or projects, which gave me early hands-on experience and reinforced my enthusiasm for web development and problem-solving.
Over the past 13 years, my professional experience has spanned a variety of tech-related roles, including Web Designer, Scrum Master, Systems Developer, QA Analyst, Market Implementation Manager, Release Manager, and Lead QA Engineer. In some instances, I have juggled multiple roles simultaneously - in my previous position, I managed releases while also serving as a QA Lead.
How did you get into tech and what motivated you?
My journey into tech began in high school, where I spent lunch breaks in the school’s computer lab playing Need for Speed. I was fascinated by how someone could create such an engaging and immersive experience, which sparked my curiosity about technology. Later, during university while pursuing my degree, I fell in love with web design. I was captivated by the ability to bring a page to life and create something both functional and visually appealing.
"I appreciate the flexibility that working in tech offers, especially with remote working. This has allowed me to work from home and be present for my young family, striking a balance between my professional and personal life."
What you wish you knew before getting started in tech...
I wish I had understood the value of professional networking earlier, as it’s something I’m only now learning to navigate. It’s not a skill typically taught and as an introvert, reaching out to others doesn't come naturally to me. However, I’m actively working on it and discovering its importance in building connections and learning from others.
What has been your biggest 'wow!' moment related to working in tech so far?
My biggest "wow" moment, which I’ve since come to normalise, was realising that I’m often the only woman in meetings or even in an entire team. While it was initially surprising, it has since become a powerful reminder of the importance of increasing representation and fostering inclusivity in the tech industry.
What do you like / not like about working in tech?
What I like about working in tech
Technology is constantly evolving, making things that were once complex and intimidating much more accessible. For instance, automation tools used to be challenging to use, but now we have user-friendly options like Cypress and Playwright, which anyone can quickly pick up and start using. Similarly, the introduction of AI with tools like ChatGPT has revolutionised problem-solving, what once took days of online research can now be resolved in minutes, empowering people to troubleshoot and fix issues with ease.
I appreciate the flexibility that working in tech offers, especially with remote working. This has allowed me to work from home and be present for my young family, striking a balance between my professional and personal life.
What I do not like about working in tech
I wish there were more women and mothers represented in tech. Our experiences and perspectives bring unique and valuable contributions to the industry. However, the lack of diversity can sometimes feel isolating. I hope to see more girls encouraged to pursue STEM-related subjects and not shy away from careers in tech as it is genuinely interesting and fun.
"Give it a try and see where it leads, there’s a wide variety of roles and opportunities to explore. Don’t be afraid to ask questions when you don’t understand something; curiosity and a willingness to learn are invaluable traits in this field."
What's been your favourite / most memorable / funniest 'career in tech' moment so far?
One moment I’ll never forget was when I joined a new company and my boss took me around to introduce me to the various departments. When we reached the department, a team of amazing women, my boss proudly introduced me as the first woman in a tech team of about seven men. One of the ladies, with a mix of humour and genuine curiosity, looked at me and asked, “But why?”.
That question stuck with me. It was a funny moment, and we all laughed it off.
I wondered whether I should start looking for another job. However, I went on to spend a couple of years in that team, learnt a great deal, made lifelong friends, and proved that I belonged.
And to wrap up, is there any advice you'd like to give to others interested in a career in tech?
From my experience, If you enjoy troubleshooting and fixing things, tech is a great fit for you. Give it a try and see where it leads, there’s a wide variety of roles and opportunities to explore. Don’t be afraid to ask questions when you don’t understand something; curiosity and a willingness to learn are invaluable traits in this field.
Imposter syndrome can be a challenge. It’s easy to question your value and contributions, which can be mentally and emotionally draining. Talking to someone you trust can help provide a fresh perspective and remind you of your skills and achievements.
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