Delve into the dynamic world of technology through the lens of personal narrative and professional insights. In this captivating journey, Lauren Wortmann, Vice President, Applications and Cloud at Dimension Datashares her reflections on navigating the ever-evolving landscape of the tech industry.
From childhood exposure to marketing in the IT sector to thriving in international tech companies, discover how one woman’s curiosity and resilience shaped her career. Join her as she explores the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated field and advocates for greater gender diversity and inclusion in technology.
What got you interested in technology?
I don’t think it was ever a conscious decision to “go into tech” it was just something that happened. Growing up my mom ran a marketing company which was focused on the IT industry, I spent my holidays helping her and being exposed to technology and the industry from a young age.
When I completed university, I landed up in marketing for an international tech company and I loved it. The constant change and innovation in this industry meant that I was always learning something new. I am a naturally curious person and being in IT means that there is always something new happening. Change is the only constant, and that pace and variety really stimulates me, so here I am 15 years later, and I will be for many years to come.
What was your journey in technology like?
It’s been a really fulfilling journey. It has not always been smooth sailing, but I have tried to look at each challenge as an opportunity for learning and growth. Some of my toughest roles have been the most formative in terms of defining the path I have taken. When I look back, some of the standout lessons of my journey have been:
It has been key to have a strong support and sponsorship base around me and within the organisation. I have tried to surround myself with people that push me to do more than I ever imagined I could.
Mindset is everything. People underestimate how infectious a positive outlook and attitude can be.
Your team is everything. Building trust and candor with your team is critical as they are the people with you on your journey and you on theirs.
Be curious and always be learning – in tech if you lack this, it is hard to excel.
Being a woman in a male dominated industry has not always been easy. There are more times that I can count when I have been the only woman at the table and have had to battle with my own self-doubt about my ability but that is something I believe every woman needs to own and find their style and way of working in tech.
As all working moms face, there is a massive juggling act between our personal and professional life, but what I have realized is that there is not one perfect way to do it. I believe that being a working Mom shows my sons that women have a place in tech and can “have it all” – this is what will help break down barriers for future women in business. I try to focus on quality over quantity when it comes to my personal life.
What is your take on women in technology?
I don’t think it is just in technology, but across professional fields – woman bringing something different to the table. Diversity is so important for organizational success in the communities we operate in. I am a firm believer that as a woman we have a responsibility to coach and mentor other young women in our organizations as well as take the time to do the same for young men in the field. I don’t believe that gender is the key factor in having a powerful coach, sponsor, or mentor – chemistry and respect are.
However, the reality is that there are just not enough women in tech. Too many of the women in this field are in HR and marketing or “back office” roles than the deep technical or business management roles. This needs to change but it starts in our homes, our schools, and universities. We need to expose the younger generation to the possibilities of technology; we need more women in STEM, and we need to create workplace experience for these women.
Nothing will change if we assume someone else will change it – one of my favorite quotes that supports this is “If not us then who, if not now than when?” I apply that mindset often.
What can be done to ensure there are more women in tech roles?
There are many things that can be done at various levels and stages. We need to encourage young women to explore, experiment, and create with technology, and to show them the possibilities and opportunities that technology offers.
Second, we need to provide women in technology with more support, guidance, and recognition, and to create a culture of inclusion, respect, and collaboration in the tech industry. We need to address the barriers and challenges that women in technology face, such as bias, harassment, and burnout, and to create spaces for them to thrive.
We need to amplify the voices, stories, and achievements of women in technology, and to celebrate their contributions and impact. We must show young women what is possible and show them that there are other women who have and are paving the way for them. We need to raise awareness, educate, and advocate for more diversity, representation, and leadership of women in technology.
But most of all, we need to show women that they deserve a seat at the table not because they are women but because of their talents, their differences and capability.
What advice would you give women who are looking to get into the field of technology?
Don’t let anyone ever tell you that you can’t… One of my most pivotal moments was when a former manager of mine said I was not ready for my set step – I used that external doubt act as fuel to show those around me exactly what I was capable of. I know if I had not taken that step, I would be in a different place in my career to where I am today.
My advice would be to go for it, and to not let anything or anyone stop you or make you feel like you are not good enough. It will be hard, it will come with challenges, and you will have moments when you question if you are in the right industry, role, or meeting because you are a woman but trust in your talents, your capability and that you are exactly where you are meant to be.
Work hard, be curious about everything around you and most importantly be curious about technology and the possibilities and opportunities it can unlock.
Surround yourself with brilliant people, men and women. Find people that have your back and are not scared to hold up a mirror for you. To guide and coach you. To have hard and honest conversations when you need them. To cheer you on and celebrate your achievements.
Be curious, be creative, be confident, and be yourself. And most importantly, have fun, and enjoy the journey.
