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Engine by Starling – Maya Vasileva, Software Engineer

We interviewed Maya Vasileva, Software Engineer at Engine by Starling on her experience and thoughts on women in tech.

Engine at Starling

  1. What does your job role involve?

I’m a software engineer and part of a backend engineering team in Engine by Starling. I use mostly Java and less frequently java script and typescript. My work days are never the same – working on new features, fixing bugs or investigating a problem. Sometimes I take part in releasing a new version of our product.

 

  1. What made you choose a career in technology?

It all started with my love for Mathematics and logic puzzles in school. Later I was introduced to programming and I loved that the program will do exactly what I tell it to do (if I do it right).

 

  1. Did you study an IT or technology related subject at GCSE, A-Level or University?

I had my education in another country, so I didn’t have GCSE and A-Level. I graduated from a selective secondary school that was focused on Mathematics, Physics and Computer Science. After that I studied Computer Science in University,

 

  1. Did you get any work experience in IT or technology before this role?

Yes, while studying in my final year of university I joined a backend engineering team and I worked there for a couple of years. I had a career gap after having my kids and moving to the UK. I never stopped dealing with technology but in a different way.. After my kids became independent enough I decided it was time to go back to a full-time job. I had a couple of months training with Tech Returners – an amazing team who helped people with career gap upskill and build our confidence. After that I joined the Financial Services team of BAE for a while and then I joined Starling/Engine.

 

  1. Do you think there is a lack of females in the IT and tech sector?

Not as much as it used to be. Women are not 50% of the tech sector yet, but we will get

there..

 

  1. Do you find there is a stereotype that a career in IT or technology is just for men?

Again – not as much as it used to be. When I decided to apply for a Computer Science degree I was told that technology evolves very quickly and it’s not suitable for women because once I have a family I won’t be able to catch up with the changes.. Today everyone can see successful women in the tech industry.

 

  1. What would entice women to study technology related courses?

It should start from early school years – more variety of technology classes and projects. Building skills and knowledge, so they can make an informed decision.

 

  1. Are there barriers when it comes to women getting into tech?

Yes, there still are barriers but there are so many opportunities available – free courses, so that everyone can try and see if they enjoy it; many groups with mentors who help and support; a university degree is not necessary, just be willing to learn; the hiring process is getting better and fairer. More businesses are following the good examples and can recognise the value in diverse and inclusive teams.

 

  1. How could we encourage more women to start a career in tech?

A career in tech is not just coding – technology is everywhere around us. Know your strengths and values and don’t give up opportunities based on your own biases.

 

  1. What advice would you give to young women at the start of their career?

Give it a try and don’t give up if the first try is not right. There are so many different programming languages and types of IT roles, try something else. Self-learning at your own pace is a good start. Build networks in tech communities. Don’t be afraid of the imposter syndrome, work on your confidence.

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