At BAE Systems, women are making an impact across all areas of techology, from engineering to leadership. In this Q&A, we speak with Gwyneth, a Delivery Manager at BAE Systems, about her journey in tech, the challenges she’s faced, and how she’s helping to pave the way for future generations of women in the industry.
Finding her way into tech
Gwyneth’s career in tech started with a desire to be a consultant after graduating with a Business Management degree. However, after working at a boutique consultancy, she realised that the best consultants had years of project management experience. That realisation led her to BAE Systems’ graduate Delivery Manager scheme.
“I started as a finance manager, but my Delivery Lead saw that I needed a bigger challenge and introduced me to being a Scrum Master. It was a massive learning curve, but I took it as an opportunity to upskill myself in tech and agile delivery.”
Mentorship and role models
Gwyneth credits her growth to strong mentors, including her mother and a Senior Finance Manager at BAE Systems who encouraged her to launch the Black Heritage Network.
“My mother is my biggest inspiration. She worked in a country where she had to learn the language and faced constant challenges, yet she persevered. That strength shaped me.”
The power of agile delivery
A passionate advocate for agile, Gwyneth sees it as a crucial tool for modern tech.
“Agile isn’t just a framework; it’s a great delivery tool that ensures continuous innovation. It focuses on iterative progress, constant feedback, and collaboration—essentials for any tech project.”
Gwyneth’s role as a Scrum Master allowed her to develop a deep understanding of agile principles, working closely with engineers and stakeholders to ensure smooth and effective project delivery. “It’s a role that requires adaptability, resilience, and a clear focus on value delivery,” she explains. “And it’s incredibly rewarding to see the impact of an agile approach in real time.”
Championing diversity at BAE Systems
BAE Systems is committed to fostering gender diversity through external partnerships and internal Employee Resource Groups, like the All In Club.
“The company is making real efforts to bring more women into tech, from sponsoring events like ‘IT’s Not Just for Boys’ to supporting inclusive recruitment practices,” she says. “There’s always more to do, but the commitment is there.”
Beyond gender diversity, Gwyneth’s work with the Black Heritage Network is making a tangible difference in representation and support for underrepresented employees. “Creating spaces where people feel heard and valued is essential,” she emphasises. “Diversity and inclusion shouldn’t be buzzwords; they should be embedded into company culture.”
Workplace culture and flexibility
One of the key elements of an inclusive workplace is flexibility, particularly for those balancing personal and professional responsibilities. Gwyneth acknowledges the importance of good maternity and paternity leave policies, as well as remote working options.
“I appreciate that BAE Systems has structures in place to support employees at different stages of their lives,” she says. “When I decide to have children, I want to know that my career won’t take a backseat because of it. It’s about having the confidence that your company values you beyond just the work you produce.”
Advice for women in tech and allies
For women considering or currently navigating tech careers, Gwyneth has one key message: stay.
“It may be difficult, and you might have to move around to find your space, but please stay. Your presence matters.”
She also calls on allies—both male and female—to be active advocates. “Speak up for those who aren’t in the room. Encourage others, challenge biases, and be part of the change.”
For allies who want to make a difference, she suggests taking a proactive approach. “Go to DEI events, ask questions, and challenge workplace biases when you see them. Being an ally isn’t just about acknowledging inequality—it’s about actively working to change it.” She stresses the importance of mentorship, sponsorship, and advocacy in everyday work settings. “If you are in a position of influence, use it to amplify the voices of underrepresented individuals. Invite them to the table, recommend them for opportunities, and advocate for fair recognition and advancement.”
She also encourages allies to engage in continuous learning. “Biases exist in all of us, and it’s crucial to keep educating ourselves. Read about the challenges women in tech face, attend training sessions, and listen to real experiences without dismissing them.”
The future of DEI in tech
“Diversity is not a choice, it is a necessity”
“Diversity fuels innovation, efficiency, and progress. If we build technology in non-diverse spaces, we create a future that mirrors the past. I want to see a tech industry that’s not only inclusive but also leads the way in driving impactful change.”
Gwyneth’s vision for BAE Systems? To be an industry leader in DEI, setting the standard for what meaningful progress looks like and delivering lasting change. “I’d love to see measurable progress in our DEI goals,” she says. “Winning awards is great, but true success is creating a workplace where diversity is genuinely celebrated and leveraged for innovation.”
