How did you end up in a role in technology?
My journey into tech has been shaped by a profound interest in both financial systems and innovation. Over the past five years, I've been deeply entrenched in the dynamic landscape of the tech industry, particularly specializing in the realm of payments. However, my career trajectory has been far from linear, marked instead by a diverse array of experiences that have enriched my perspective.
Early on, I found myself drawn to roles that allowed me to make a tangible difference, whether it was through education or healthcare. In my early twenties, I served as a tutor and teaching assistant for afterschool programs, followed by a position in healthcare as a patient care coordinator, where I collaborated closely with community nurses to ensure patients received optimal care in their homes. Despite the fulfillment these roles provided, I realized that to achieve my aspirations and contend with the soaring costs of living, I needed to explore alternative career paths.
Driven by wanting to learn and a supportive network of friends, I made a pivotal decision to delve into the world of tech. Embracing this new direction, I enrolled in a comprehensive full stack web developer program. While coding ultimately proved not to be my forte, this experience served as a pivotal stepping stone that opened doors to my first foray into the tech industry.
My journey commenced with a role in customer success at Coinsquare, a digital currency trading platform. Through dedication and learning on the side, I gradually transitioned into roles encompassing business analysis and ultimately found my niche in product management, where my passion for payments truly flourished. This role has afforded me the privilege of tackling complex challenges spanning both consumer and B2B segments, driving innovative solutions that have made a tangible impact.
What are some of the most significant challenges you’ve faced in your career?
One of the most significant challenges I've encountered in my career within the tech industry revolves around establishing leadership and influence. The environment is highly technical and often populated by individuals deeply rooted in finance, which initially led to moments of self-doubt for me. Not having an engineering background or a traditional finance education made me question my place in the field. However, I chose to confront these challenges head-on, utilizing every opportunity to learn and grow. Embracing a data-driven approach, implementing collaborative processes, and seeking guidance from payment leaders have been instrumental in overcoming these hurdles, allowing me to accelerate my career trajectory and establish myself as an expert in the field.
In the realm of product development, another significant challenge I've faced is the pressure to excel and demonstrate expertise, particularly considering my non-traditional entry into the field. The demanding nature of product development can be overwhelming, with expectations of delivering successful outcomes while leading a team. Despite these pressures, I've come to recognize failure as an inevitable aspect of growth. Viewing setbacks as learning opportunities has been pivotal in my journey. Whether it's extracting valuable insights from past mistakes or leveraging past experiences to inform future decisions, every failure has contributed to my personal and professional development.
What advice would you give aspiring women in tech?
For aspiring women in tech, my advice is simple: never stop learning. Education doesn't have to be confined to traditional classroom settings. Engage with like-minded individuals, foster meaningful conversations, and share knowledge within your community. By continuously seeking growth and embracing collaboration, the possibilities in the tech industry are boundless.
