We interviewed Maha Malik, Apps and Cloud Tech Consultant at Sogeti on her experience and thoughts on women in tech.
1. What does your job role involve?
I have recently joined Sogeti as a consultant in the Apps & Cloud Tech practice. Right now, I’m mainly learning about the Cloud specifically Azure, Data analysis in PowerBI, and software testing. Application Development, Data Development and Engineering and Cloud will be the type of projects I’ll be working on.
2. What made you choose a career in technology?
I was looking for a career change back in 2020, and through research I found about the growing job market in tech, great earning potential and career progression in tech. I had learnt some basic coding at uni years before, and quite enjoyed it, so it seemed like the right match.
3. Did you study an IT or technology related subject at GCSE, A-Level or University?
I had a module in Web Design at University.
4. Did you get any work experience in IT or technology before this role?
Yes, I had some entry level experience as a tech specialist for a high-end coffee machine company.
5. Do you think there is a lack of females in the IT and tech sector?
I think the IT and tech sector is still fairly male dominant, but the landscape is changing as more and more employers are working towards bridging the gender gap.
6. Do you find there is a stereotype that a career in IT or technology is just for men?
No, I feel that stereotype is outdated now that we’re seeing more women in tech.
7. What would entice women to study technology related courses?
Seeing other female peers and role models within their communities would encourage more women to take up tech courses. Making women aware that tech employers are actively working towards more diverse and inclusive workplaces, and that women from different walks of life have a big part to play in shaping the tech industry for the better. Learning about the earning potential, growing industry demand, and career progression within the tech industry should also attract more women to take up tech related courses.
8. Are there barriers when it comes to women getting into tech?
I feel the barriers are mental more than physical. We tend to have very self-limiting beliefs, “I’m not smart enough”, “I’m too old to learn complex things”, “I don’t have a degree in tech”.
9. How could we encourage more women to start a career in tech?
Having more female role models, peers and mentors share their stories and experiences in tech would encourage more women to consider tech as a career. Knowing someone in tech who looks like you gives you the courage and inspiration that you can do it too.
10. What advice would you give to young women at the start of their career?
There will always be times when you feel like an imposter, like you don’t belong; but you do belong, and you have the power to make a positive difference through tech and in tech. Each day you’ll get to learn, not just about tech but also about your own inner strength, through trying and failing and trying some more!
