We interviewed RajaRajeshwari Sankar, Automation Test Consultant at Sogeti UK on her experience and thoughts on women in tech.
1. What does your job role invovle?
As an automation test consultant my job role involves in developing, identifying, and converting the manual testing steps to automated tests, thus minimising manual interventions, improving of accuracy, and reducing time spent on repetitive tests. In my current role I have been given opportunity to explore and learn multiple technologies and tools.
2. What made you choose a career in technology?
I have always been interested in tech, but to be frank initially I did not choose a career in IT. While I was doing my bachelors in different stream, I got a chance to attend a campus interview for a renowned IT Services firm, and when I got selected, I thought I would give it a try on different stream from what I was studying. IT/Tech industry was promising and booming with abundant opportunities to learn and work on leading cutting-edge technologies for world class firms, it was too lucrative as an option not to choose. I realised it was an opportunity to grab and choose my journey in this path.
3. Did you study an IT or technology related subject at GCSE, A-Level or University?
I did my Bachelors in Electronics and Communications Engineering (ECE) in India.
4. Did you get any work experience in IT or technology before this role?
Yes I had around 6+ years of IT work experience before I joined in Sogeti UK.
5. Do you think there is a lack of females in the IT and tech sector?
I don’t think so considering the vast developments in the IT/Tech industry and a career opportunity as such in the last 2 decades where women are given equal growth opportunities to explore and enhance their identities.
6. Do you find there is a stereotype that a career in IT or technology is just for men?
I don’t think so as opportunities are equally available and viable for all genders, however I still can see men are dominating when it comes to CEOs/senior leadership levels.
7. What would entice women to study technology related courses?
Giving exposure to the technology and its advancements at an early stage, may be in their schooling or at least in their college level, will give them a good chance to explore, learn and even choose it as a career if that is something that fascinates them. Having said that, even at later stage, currently with the amount of online learning tools and sources available, it is breaking the shackles of ‘start early’ mindset. Currently, literally anyone from anywhere has access to online learning sources. The key is making a start!
8. Are there barriers when it comes to women getting into tech?
It is not only a barrier for women working in tech, instead I can quote it as a common barrier for all the working women across any industry who are supposed to also “take care of the family and kids” while working full time. A strong support system, especially from family is still a crucial factor for women to continue fulfilling their career paths, be it in tech or anything else.
9. How could we encourage more women to start a career in tech?
First and foremost is acquaintance about the tech field and its advancements. Couple of decades ago there were no adequate references or sources on how and where to start if they want to jump in IT/Tech fields. However, now there are abundant options to acquaint and learn with the availability of online tools, trusted YouTube channels, etc. We need to further motivate women, by sharing the success stories and achievements of female leaders. Flexible / hybrid working is a bonus especially for working moms.
10. What advice would you give to young women at the start of their career?
It’s a knowledge industry, focus on learning and upskilling about technologies and tools, find your interest and take one step at a time, reflect but not turn back, you will get there! I am making a satisfying and fulfilling career, anyone can.
