Women in Technology: Meet Tina

Marissa: Tell us your story on how you got into technology?

Tina: I came into the field unintentionally. After graduating high school, I had no idea what I wanted to do as a career. The women in my family had joined the medical field and became nurses so it seemed that was the obvious path for me. However, after changing majors a couple of times, I decided to take electives and came across an introductory computer class. I loved the class and found it fun and challenging at the same time. I investigated further and realized that I could make a career out of it!

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

Tina: When I was young, I loved taking things apart before putting them back together. I simply liked to figure out how things worked. I was also the go-to person in my family to fix anything mechanical. So, in that sense, I guess it’s not surprising that I’m now working in technology.

Marissa: How long have you been with Dataprise? 

Tina: I have only been with Dataprise for a few weeks. While I’m still getting acclimated, I’m learning and re-learning new things every day. I enjoy working in a fast-paced environment with incredibly supportive team members. Unfortunately, because of Covid, I have not met most of my team members in person, however, my manager, the service desk and my co-workers have been nothing but helpful, knowledgeable, and welcoming. 

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

Tina: I’m a Network Consultant for the Northeast Region. There’s never a typical or dull day. One day I am racking and installing sensors that monitor logs on a firewall with the help of the Cybersecurity team, another day I am configuring virtual servers or configuring a Wi-Fi network, or I might be troubleshooting PC’s and installing application software. Every day is a different challenge. Keeping networks functioning during a pandemic brings pressure as more companies are relying heavily on technology. I’m happy that I can have a career that helps keep people connected and productive. While it is high pressure, it is also fun doing what you love.

Marissa: What is one piece of advice you would give to young women looking to get into the technology field?

Tina: Do not be intimidated by the male domination in the field, especially in the server and network administration area of technology. Often during my schooling and career I was always the only female in the group. I got used to it. No one knows everything, so never feel intimidated by what you don’t know. Technology changes constantly and there is a lot to learn, and you cannot learn everything. Just focus on your strengths and what you can bring to the table.

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

Tina: I try to recruit women into technology any chance I get. Yes, it is a “boy’s club” but do not let that be a hindrance. Also, do not fear technology. When I started as a Technician, I was in awe of Senior Network Engineers and never thought I could do what they do. I would attach myself to the smartest people, pick their brain and learn all that I could. I would volunteer to be included in the toughest projects. I wanted to swap out core switches and integrate or migrate to major systems. Fear will cripple you; be fearless and accept the challenge.

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

Tina: The best part about being a woman in the tech industry is to hopefully be an inspiration to other little girls and young women that do not necessarily grow up wishing to be a Tech or an Engineer.

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

Tina: Dataprise is very innovative with technology. We’ve embraced cloud computing, cybersecurity, virtualization, and automation. We’re in a new age with technology and encourage our clients to do the same. Since I have been at Dataprise, we have not backed away from large and impactful projects. It’s exciting to be a part of a company that is growing with the times. Also, Dataprise acknowledges, encourages and fosters learning and growing your skillset. Having access to education worth thousands of dollars is priceless. I feel motivated to keep learning and growing.

Marissa: Where do you see yourself going from here?

Tina: The sky is the limit! The wonderful thing about technology is we don’t know where it’s going to take us. For now, I am happy with the trajectory I’m on and I look forward to a long and developing future with Dataprise.