Dataprise Women in Technology: Meet Natasha

Tell us your story on how you got into technology.

I got into technology like any kid who grew up in the 90’s – by playing Nintendo! I loved all the games and colors, different worlds to beat, things to find and unlock, etc. Then, the computer came into my life around 1998 when I was in high school, and I thought it was just the coolest thing ever. AOL, AIM, not having to write out papers for school, playing MineSweeper when class was boring, creating MySpace pages with your friends, etc. At one point in my life, I wanted to be a computer graphic designer and after a quick foray into the Forensics and Criminal Justice world, I decided to make a career out of it.

Did you always know that working in technology was what you wanted to do?

Not always as I went to college for Criminal Justice, but I’ve always worked in customer service and I worked as a Target Tech for a few years. Both of those experiences sealed the deal with me on wanting to build a technology career.

How long have you been with Dataprise?

I have been with the company for almost 2 years and have no intention of leaving anytime soon. I love this company and I’m so happy to be a part of this amazing team!

Can you share a little bit about what it is that you do and what a typical day for you is like?

I am part of the Device Fulfillment team for Wireless Watchdogs which is the mobility division of Dataprise. A typical day for me starts off with reading emails from clients and seeing if things that needed approval have been approved so I can get them out to the client in a timely matter. I process orders for devices, port requests when someone wants to change carriers, warranty exchanges when devices have failed to work but are covered under the 1-year warranty, and assist the Account Managers and rest of the team when needed.

What advice would you give to women considering a career in the tech industry? What do you wish you had known?

If you are worried that you don’t belong in this industry, you most certainly do! Take the leap and come join this awesome world of women in tech because it’s growing, and you can grow with us. I wish I had known all the fun I would have working for Dataprise and working in tech in general because I would’ve started earlier.

Why do you think it’s important for more women to join the tech industry? How can the broader community support women in tech?

It’s important for women to join the tech industry because this industry isn’t just made for one type of person, this industry is made for all and it’s so important to show the world that people from all walks of life can thrive in this industry. Anyone can help bring more women into the field by encouraging their friends, family, and children that are interested in any type of technology whether it be robotics, computer graphics design, or working in wireless/cyber security, to follow their dreams and never give up! Just because they THINK they are not the picture of what the tech industry is, they are!

What do you think is the best part of being a woman in the tech industry?

The best part of being a woman in the tech industry is the realization that I can do this, be good at it, and thrive in a world that was once thought to be only for men. The women are coming in strong and staying for good!

What is it that you enjoy most about your current job at Dataprise?

I enjoy the fact that Dataprise is so understanding with everyone and the things that go on in everyday life. I love that I can work remotely and watch my son grow up at the same time. I love being a part of Wireless Watchdogs and having a team I can count on when I need them and that knows they can count on me too anytime.

What is the best professional advice you’ve ever received?

The best professional advice I’ve ever received is to just slow down, take your time, and don’t try to be 10 people at once. There’s only 1 of me and if something doesn’t get done today, there is always tomorrow to finish it.

Where do you see yourself going from here?

I see myself staying in the tech industry and staying with Dataprise/Wireless Watchdogs for many years to come. I would like to move up in the company and possibly be a lead or someone who teaches the new people coming in the ropes.