We interviewed Hiba Mohammed, Consultant at Sogeti UK on her thoughts and experience on women in tech.
1. What does your job role involve?
As an application and cloud technologies consultant we help businesses and organizations develop technological systems and solutions. This role looks at the specific needs of our clients, to understand the business process, and we then create tailored applications for them, install, and train them on these new applications.
2. What made you choose a career in technology?
It has been a passion for me since I was young, it grows with me, and It’s meaningful work. There aren’t many industries that shift the way the world functions like technology does. It aims to make everything we do faster, better, and easier.
3. Did you study an IT or technology related subject at GCSE, A-Level or University?
Yes, I have studied computer science in university, and I hold a master’s degree in computer science.
4. Did you get any work experience in IT or technology before this role?
Yes, I worked in other volunteering roles which were IT, Technology related prior to joining Sogeti.
5. Do you think there is a lack of females in the IT and tech sector?
The figures speak for themselves: according to WISE1, just 23% of the people working in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) roles across the UK are female – and only 5% of leadership positions in the technology industry are held by women. Although this is not the case in the company that I work for but in general, yes there is a lack of females in the IT sector.
6. Do you find there is a stereotype that a career in IT or technology is just for men?
Personally, I never felt this. No one suggested that I was doing something which should be done by men. At university there were similar fields like engineering where the female count was also considerably lower than the male.
7. What would entice women to study technology related courses?
I think there is no need to entice them, let them choose their area of interest and they will shine in it. Some people are naturally inclined to technology, and they will choose it.
8. Are there barriers when it comes to women getting into tech?
Personally, I haven’t experienced any barriers. But I think the biggest barrier is getting that first role in tech, which helps you build the confidence to go further.
9. How could we encourage more women to start a career in tech?
Showcase more inspiring stories of women and their journey into Tech and find ways to reach women in less privileged backgrounds who might otherwise not be exposed to the opportunities.
10. What advice would you give to young women at the start of their career?
Working in Tech is amazing. There is a huge potential for growth in the Tech Industry. As women we have natural skills, such as management, multi-tasking, communication skills, and working well under pressure. These play to our advantage in many Tech roles so do not hesitate to take a step in starting your career in Tech. If this is your passion go for it, work hard and it will pay off.
