In celebration of International Women in Engineering Day 2024, we are delighted to recognise the exceptional talent of women engineers within our team. Below, we feature an insightful interview with Carla, one of our software engineers. Carla’s story and perspectives shed light onto the innovative world of software engineering and the pivotal role women play in advancing this industry.
Interview with Carla
Q: Can you tell us a bit about your journey into software engineering? What inspired you to pursue this career?
Carla: I was inspired to become an engineer largely because of my older brothers. They were both into technology, and one of them was finishing his engineering degree right when I had to decide my own career path. I always looked up to them and loved the idea of following in their footsteps. My family’s support was also crucial—they always believed in me and encouraged me to pursue my passion. I took my time exploring different engineering fields, but I was particularly drawn to the combination of software and hardware. Robotics caught my eye, and within that field, I discovered my true passion for Computer Vision.
Q: What do you enjoy most about your role as a software engineer?
Carla: One of the things I enjoy most about my role is the spontaneous problem-solving discussions with my colleagues. It’s amazing how a casual conversation about a small issue can lead to a breakthrough solution for bigger problems. These brainstorming sessions are not only exciting but also incredibly rewarding, as they often lead to innovative ideas that we wouldn’t have thought of on our own.
Q: Have you faced any challenges as a woman in engineering? How did you overcome them?
Carla: Yes, one of the challenges I’ve faced is the need to constantly prove myself. Some people tend to underestimate women’s abilities in engineering until we prove them wrong. This can be frustrating, but I’ve learned to stay confident and let my work speak for itself. While there is still progress to be made, I’ve noticed small positive changes as more companies begin to embrace diversity. These changes give me hope for the future as I continue to develop my career and demonstrate my capabilities.
Q: What advice would you give to young women aspiring to enter the field of engineering?
Carla: My advice to young women aspiring to enter engineering is to follow your passion and don’t be afraid to take your time figuring out what excites you the most. Surround yourself with supportive people who believe in you, and don’t let doubts—whether from others or yourself—hold you back. Embrace challenges as opportunities to grow and make your mark in the field.
Q: How do you see the future of women in engineering?
Carla: I see a very bright future for women in engineering. We’re already witnessing women leading big technology companies and becoming the inspiration for young women looking for a future in this field. As more women enter and excel in engineering, we’re breaking down stereotypes and paving the way for the next generation. Companies are increasingly recognizing the importance of diversity and inclusion, which is leading to more opportunities and support for women engineers. I believe we’ll continue to see more women in leadership roles and driving innovation in the industry. The future holds a lot of promise, and I’m excited to be a part of this positive change.
