wWhat appealed to you most
Ph about a career in the technology / security industry ?
“ I was just drawn to it from a very early age – I had computer / programming classes as early as elementary school and this exposure was such a positive experience for my eager young mind ,” said Remy Lyle , Director of Technical Enablement . “ In college , I saw all the boys were getting engineering and computer science degrees , and I said , ‘ why not me ?!’.”
What would you say to encourage females to pursue a career in technology / security ?
“ Personal identity is everywhere now , in every part of the economy and in every country ,” Emma Maslen , VP and General Manager , EMEA & APAC . “ A career in security / tech can take you to the most interesting places , understanding the most innovative companies in the world . If you like variety , tech is a great place to get that variety every day .”
“ I think the biggest hurdle is what may be a preconceived notion as to ‘ who ’ pursues careers in technology and security – the standard socially awkward dude living in a basement ,” said Remy Lyle , Director of Technical Enablement . “ I am a wife and mum of two , who loves fashion , yoga and travel , surrounded by a ton of friends and family , and I have a full-time career in technology and security . There ’ s no reason not to rock Chanel pearl mules while coding an identity verification mobile application . My engineering degree is definitely funding my expensive fashion habits .”
. D , Champion of Learning . “ When I look back , I realise that her words are so very true . Each and every day , you get to write your story . You own your career and its trajectory . Growth happens at the edge of your comfort zone . Explore that edge .
“ I love how Steve Jobs describes the journey : ‘ You can ’ t connect the dots looking forward ; you can only connect them looking backwards . So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future ’. There were moments where I didn ’ t know how to connect the dots , yet when I look back , I see the connection . I ’ ve discovered that the connection is leading change initiatives , creating culture , innovating and supporting the success of people . The connection is beyond a title . Trust that you will connect the dots as your journey unfolds and take advantage of opportunities that weren ’ t in your plans .”
“ Confidence is your greatest quality ; don ’ t let anyone take that away from you ,” said Beth Drew , VP Channel Sales . “ Be confident in your convictions and back it up with data . Ask for help . Women , in my experience , are always willing to lend a hand up if you ask for it . Leverage that network , seek advice and then pay it forward to other women .”
“ Always be open to feedback ,” said Michelle Jenkins , Director , Human Resources . “ I know this sounds silly and we ’ ve all heard how much younger generations want feedback , but you have to really lean into it , accept it , change from it . The minute you stop accepting feedback well is the minute you will stop receiving coaching .”
TALKING
‘‘ business
Emma Maslen , VP and General Manager , EMEA & APAC
Was there any advice you were given during your career that you would pass on to another woman just starting out or looking to make a career change ?
“ Take the leap . You can always go back . I truly believe with strong sponsors and mentors , they will support you in a leap forward or a return to a past career ,” said Emma Maslen , VP & General Manager , EMEA & APAC .
“ Be bold , courageous and unafraid ,” said Remy Lyle , Director of Technical Enablement . “ Take the roads less travelled by . Regardless of gender , we are all just trying to figure it out so don ’ t feel like it ’ s just you . You can be exactly who you are and there ’ s no gender or physical features required to be in tech .”
“ My mum always told me , ‘ You can be anything you put your mind to ’. I didn ’ t realise the power of these words until I transitioned from a career in education to politics and then to the tech industry ,” said Jennifer Arzberger ,
The most challenging issue for women is the lack of innovation put in at the educational level to attract girls into STEM and tech .
What ’ s been the highlight or most rewarding part of your career ?
“ The best part of my career and day job is helping people succeed every day ,” said Emma Maslen , VP and General Manager , EMEA & APAC .
“ My favourite part has been influencing the young ladies and engineers of tomorrow ,” Remy Lyle , Director of Technical Enablement , said . “ I regularly volunteer for Girls and Science , a STEAM career event sponsored by Denver Museum of Nature and Science and CBS4 , and it ’ s so rewarding to see the young ladies and gents
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