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Women in tech: an interview with tsoHost’s Ana Ivanova

Women in tech: an interview with tsoHost’s Ana Ivanova

Posted 08th March, 2021 by Sarah

From Grace Hopper, the esteemed computer scientist whose work famously led to the development of the early programming language COBOL to Carol Shaw, the first female video game designer, history is punctuated with the unsung contributions of women in tech who changed our world.

Today, you’ll find female technologists trailblazing their own paths in the wake of these pixelated footprints. And, like their predecessors, they are doing so against the odds.

Just ask tsoHost's SRE manager, Ana Ivanova.

For Ana, the tech industry is making headway in closing the inequality gap, but she urges caution. Increasing diversity and inclusiveness of culture, says Ana, is an ongoing process.

Ana is, of course, right.

Tech Nation’s 2019 report, Diversity and Inclusion in UK Tech Companies, found that just 19 per cent of the tech workforce were women.

These findings are supported by PWC’s survey, Women in Tech, which concluded only 3 per cent of females considered a career in technology as their first choice.

The figures speak for themselves.

International Women’s Day 2021

Here at tsoHost, we celebrate female technologists such as Ana who are pioneering our web-based services and products.

For us, every day is women’s day. And, with International Women’s Day 2021 a key date on March’s calendar, now’s the perfect time to showcase tsoHost’s technological talent roster.

Ahead of IWD 2021, we spoke with Ana about what it means to be a woman in tech, her first-hand experiences, tips to share with budding female technologists and more.

Here’s what she had to say:

What does a typical day in your job role look like?

I'm responsible for one of our engineering teams. So our daily work consists of maintaining our server fleet and improving our infrastructure. It’s all about giving tsoHost customers the best possible experience.

What’s your favourite thing about the job?

There are so many. The one which really stands out is the fact that I get to make a change and see how it reflects on our products and on the people using them.

What made you want to pursue a tech career?

I've had an interest in tech since my teen years, more or less, but it took me a while to believe that I could make a career out of it. It's something that I'm passionate about and something I enjoy doing, so my only regret is that I didn't realise it sooner.

How important is it to give women a dedicated space to learn and grow within the tech industry?

I think it's very important. The tech industry can be very overwhelming when you're new to it and even more so when you're a woman in a male-dominated field. Mentorship and support from women for women is extremely important. One such workshop is what pushed me to finally get over my fears and pursue a career in tech!

What's the most rewarding thing about working in the tech industry?

The possibilities. There are so many aspects to the tech industry. So many different paths to take. There's always space for growth. I love the change - the fact that it's never stagnant.

What’s the biggest challenge women face within the tech industry?

In my experience, speaking to other women in tech, it's their own mindset. Women are capable and can do an amazing job in the tech field, but a lot of them suffer from imposter syndrome or lack of confidence in their skills.

What are you most proud of within your career?

My current team that I've essentially built from the ground up.

What one piece of advice would you give to women looking to get started in tech?

Take risks and don't be afraid to speak up! It can be scary, but it can also pay off really well and growth is worth taking a chance.

What would you say to a female student who may be put off pursuing a career in technology due to it being too male-dominated?

As cheesy as it may sound – be the change you want to see in the world. Historically, there were a lot of professions that were originally male-dominated, yet women found their way into them and did amazing things. Look for a place that will support you and your growth, that will focus on what you bring to the table rather than the pronouns you use.

Are you a woman in tech?

tsoHost is a sum of its parts. Behind the scenes resides a family of people working hard to deliver our customers the technology they deserve day in, day out. And we want to encourage women to seek out a career in technology, smash stereotypes and show solidarity.

Aspiring to join our wonderful industry? Then follow tsoHost on LinkedIn to keep up to date with all our latest news, pro tips and job opportunities.

Categories: Tsohost News

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