We interviewed Alice Binney, Cloud & Video Specialist Kinly on her experience and thoughts on women in tech.
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What does your job role involve?
It involves me supporting Kinly customers with their Cloud & Video strategy journey including Webex, Zoom & Pexip etc. A big part of this involves helping customers meet their ESG & sustainability goals and how they can be more environmentally friendly with smart building software. My day-to-day role allows me to support with onsite demonstrations, meetings & technology roadmap updates.
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What made you choose a career in technology?
Being honest… – I was looking for a move out of the estate agency industry as I knew it wasn’t the right fit for me. I approached a recruitment agency who had an opportunity with a small AV integrator. They had worked with some huge customers which made the job appealing, and tech was also something I was curious to know more about.
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Did you study an IT or technology related subject at GCSE, A-Level or University?
I took IT at School, many years ago but moved away from this when I went to college to study a Business & Secretarial course.
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Did you get any work experience in IT or technology before this role?
No, I didn’t – I took a business Studies course at college
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Do you think there is a lack of females in the IT and tech sector?
Yes absolutely – As part of my role I attend a lot of events and notice that there are very few other women and sometimes I am the only female in the room.
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Do you find there is a stereotype that a career in IT or technology is just for men?
Yes – I do think that there is a perception that men are generally better at IT or technology than women, which is where we need to promote more opportunities for women!
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What would entice women to study technology related courses?
Perhaps if the courses were taught by women or showcased more women in tech roles. You need to see others being successful in that environment to even consider if it might be the right fit for yourself.
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Are there barriers when it comes to women getting into tech?
i have to say I have never felt that anyone wouldn’t hire me because I’m female. I think if you can demonstrate you are good at something and right for the role, then anyone stands a good chance!
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How could we encourage more women to start a career in tech?
More training Sessions! When I first started in the AV industry, I never thought nearly 10 years later I would still love working there. I think IT & AV can be very daunting and is usually seen as a ‘man’s job’, but if there was more awareness of what this industry means and more training and support were available, it might make women more comfortable to get involved.
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What advice would you give to young women at the start of their career?
There are no restrictions to what you can and can’t do! I never thought that I would be in a position where I absolutely love my job and feel as confident as I do in the Tech industry. There are always challenges, but with the right support you can achieve anything.
