We interviewed Zoe Hodgins, Senior Consultant / Team Leader at Frazer-Nash Consultancy on her thoughts and experience on women in tech.
I am a data scientist, with a specific focus on innovation projects in the energy industry. I specialise in gaining insight from datasets that are uncertain or sparce, utilising data analytics, machine learning and software development. My day-to-day role involves solution architecture, technical project leadership and code contribution.
I have always loved problem solving, and the buzz you get when working collaboratively to a common goal. I always had a love for mathematics, which has prepared me perfectly for my current role as a data scientist.
No, I studied Chemistry, Physics, Maths and further Maths at A-Level and then completed a Theoretical Physics masters at University.
Yes! I worked in three companies before for undertaking a summer internship (and then full employment) at Frazer-Nash. I started off working in a company who design in-body medical devices. This showed me the importance of rigour in design and development because the result of getting something wrong was potentially catastrophic. I also completed summer internships at an engineering company in Shanghai, China, and at a research company developing land-mine detection robots in Medellin, Colombia. These internships showed me the variety of problems that need solving in the world!!
Yes! I think there is still a massive disproportionate representation. I am lucky that my mother was very technical, so I grew up in an environment where I was always encouraged to challenge myself technically.
Yes. In the area that I work in – data science and engineering – there is still an underlying belief that women just aren’t as clever as men. When I walk into a meeting, I must earn my authority, whereas men are gifted it automatically.
More role models and guidance from schools and the media that women are just as clever and can enjoy a role in technology.
I think there is a barrier of a lack of role models and non-consistent guidance at school careers.
You don’t have to know everything to be better than most of the men! Give it your best shot and you will be surprised where you can land.
YOU GOT THIS. And don’t be scared to fail.