We interviewed Vanessa M. Tolisano, Program Manager at Kinly on her experience and thoughts on women in tech.
What does your job role involve?
My day-to-day role consists of overseeing all project managers, project coordinators, and SMEs in the US that are dedicated to the UBS account. I ensure they are adhering to project processes and timelines as well as client communication expectations. I manage any escalations and work with the many interdepartmental teams (Engineering, SME’s, logistics, purchasing) to encourage seamless project delivery. I manage all project related data tracking, as well as keeping an eye on the fiscal health of all projects. I often hold workshops to help team members better understand process, go over training, and will often work with our solutions architect to solve problems and implement new processes. Overall, I am the lead liaison between Kinly GS operations and UBS for most project and process related items. I am the “face” of Kinly to UBS, and an advocate for UBS to Kinly.
What made you choose a career in technology?
I have always been amazed by technology. I remember from a very young age having my dad sit down and do different STEM activities with me, I was always especially perplexed by electricity and robotics. The best Christmas gift I had ever received from my family was a robotic dog from Radio Shack, I was 9 years old and absolutely beside myself. This curiosity stayed with me as I grew into adulthood, trying my hand in many different areas of technology including software development & implementation, broadband and networking, and eventually AV.
Did you study an IT or technology related subject at GCSE, A-Level or University?
I have completed a variety of IT classes (GCSE) that include but are not limited to:
- CompTIA Project+
- CompTIA ITF+
- CompTIA A+
- AWS Certification Training
- Cyber Security and Information Protection
- Computer Networks & Data Communications
- Microsoft Azure
- Business Analysis
- Linux
- Currently working on my PMP
Did you get any work experience in IT or technology before this role?
I have worked exclusively as a Project Manager/Program Manager in the technology field for the last 7 years.
Do you think there is a lack of females in the IT and tech sector?
I think that in 2024, the female presence in IT and technology roles is certainly growing, which is a beautiful thing to see, but we still have so much more growing to do. I strongly believe that early introduction into these fields is crucial in bestowing an interest in adolescence that can grow into a career as an adult.
Do you find there is a stereotype that a career in IT or technology is just for men?
Absolutely – The IT/Technology field has been dominated by men since it has existed, and this is still the case, though we are steadily closing this gap.
What would entice women to study technology related courses?
Again, early introduction into these fields is key in piquing an interest in anyone. Technology is for everyone, but not everyone knows it is an option for them. Had it not been from a parent sharing this interest with me from an early age, I likely wouldn’t have known that this world existed for me. I also feel that having more women role models in IT positions is very important – I follow a few very bold and intelligent women leaders in IT on social media and they do a lot of work in the educational system to bring awareness to the various roles one could hold in the world of technology.
Are there barriers when it comes to women getting into tech?
The barriers are becoming fewer and further between, especially from the introduction of DEI initiatives across the globe. More companies are eager to consider women candidates for technology roles due to the boost it can give their DEI statistics. Granted, I would consider this to be a sad reality, as the first consideration given to women (or anyone for that matter) during the hiring process should be their skills, attitude, and work ethic – not their gender, race, etc.
The most significant barrier again is just the number of opportunities given to women at a younger age that could introduce them to interests and careers in STEM, though as the years go on, we seem to be moving in a more positive direction away from these gender biases and the belief in what “girls should like”.
How could we encourage more women to start a career in tech?
Early introduction of the career possibilities. Integrate more STEM classes into academic organizations.
What advice would you give to young women at the start of their career?
Never lose your grit and learn to be confident. You will fail at least a hundred times as you navigate your professional career, and the most important thing you can do is to learn from it and continue moving forward. Finding a female role model in the field you are in or wish to pursue is also incredibly helpful, as it can arm you with knowledge and wisdom that cannot always be found online or in the pages of a self-help book. The last piece of advice I have is to network, network, and NETWORK. You can never know too many people. More people find luck pursuing positions not because of the skills listed on their resume, but because of who they know.
