Can you share your journey with us and what inspired you to pursue a career in this industry?
Since I was young, I’ve been drawn to the wonders of science and its impact on our lives and society. The evolution of technology has always fascinated me, igniting a curiosity that only grew with time. When it came time to choose my major for my engineering degree, I found myself naturally gravitating towards IT and Telecommunications.
With a vision to connect people, empower businesses, and drive positive change, I joined Ericsson in 1998. Today, with nearly 25 years of experience at Ericsson in diverse roles spanning technology, sales, strategy, operations, and customer project delivery, I developed expertise and strategic acumen in navigating the dynamic landscape of telecommunications.
At Ericsson, I’ve been fortunate to witness firsthand the impact our work has on individuals and communities worldwide. It’s not just about the technology; it’s about the lives it touches and the futures it shapes.
What challenges have you faced as a woman in IT?
As a woman in the technology sector, I have encountered various challenges, yet overcoming them has been instrumental in shaping both my personal journey and professional growth. One significant obstacle that I have noticed, is the underrepresentation of women in leadership positions, which often results in a lack of female role models and support networks. Despite the significant progress the industry has made, there is a long way to go. I am grateful for the opportunity to lead by example at Ericsson, advocating for initiatives such as diverse hiring practices and sensitivity training to foster a culture where every individual feels valued and respected, thereby driving success and innovation.
My dedication to fostering diversity and inclusion led me to serve as a member of the D&I board in the Mediterranean region. I strongly believe in the importance of establishing strong female leadership networks within organizations, as they offer invaluable support and mentorship opportunities. Additionally, I am committed to mentoring and coaching young leaders within my company, nurturing their professional growth and advancement.
What unique contributions do women bring to the IT field?
Women bring a multitude of unique contributions to the IT field, enriching it with diverse perspectives, innovative approaches, and valuable skills. The report by UNESCO “Cracking the code: Girls’ and women’s education in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM)” said that the inclusion of women promotes scientific excellence and boosts the quality of STEM outcomes.
Women often approach problems from different angles, drawing from diverse life experiences and perspectives. This diversity of thought fosters creativity and innovation, leading to more comprehensive and effective solutions in IT. According to a study conducted by BCG, companies exhibiting the highest levels of gender diversity garnered approximately 34% of their revenue from innovative products and services within the most recent three-year timeframe. Women have a strong attention to detail, which ensures precision and accuracy in their work, contributing to high-quality outcomes.
Additionally, women are adept at fostering collaboration and building strong interpersonal relationships, crucial for project success and fostering a positive work environment. Women also bring empathy to the design process, resulting in more intuitive, accessible, and inclusive products and solutions. Moreover, female leaders serve as role models and mentors, inspiring the next generation of professionals and advocating for diversity and inclusion.
Embracing and celebrating these contributions is essential for building a successful IT community.
How can the tech industry better support and encourage gender diversity and inclusion?
For the industry to encourage gender diversity and inclusion, requires a multifaceted approach that begins with nurturing interest and confidence in young girls and extends to fostering inclusive workplaces where women can thrive. Initiatives like mentorship programs and sponsorship activities play a pivotal role in inspiring young women to pursue careers in technology fields by providing guidance and support throughout their educational and professional journeys.
However, true progress also hinges on creating environments where women feel valued and empowered to take on leadership roles. This necessitates the implementation of policies that promote gender equality and actively address bias and discrimination within the tech industry. By championing inclusive leadership practices, companies can cultivate cultures that recognize and leverage the unique perspectives and contributions of women.
At Ericsson, we are committed to advancing gender diversity and inclusion through initiatives like our ‘Connect to Learn’ program, which has made a significant impact by supporting the education of women and girls worldwide. By investing in such initiatives and fostering a culture of equality, we can inspire meaningful change and pave the way for a more diverse and inclusive tech industry.
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