Women in Technology: Meet Dawn

Marissa: Tell us your story on how you got into technology.
Dawn: I got into technology solely for entertainment purposes. I was huge into online gaming and music trading when “the Internet” was first available to us normal folk. I was stuck in retail management and the hospitality industry and was seeking to change to an industry with upward growth mobility and traditional working hours. Dataprise took a chance and hired me and I’m so glad they did!

Marissa: Did you always know that working in technology was what you wanted to do?
Dawn: I avoided the technology field after college because I was not sure I had the “smarts” for it. Then one day I realized technology is the future and I should aim to be part of that future! I took all I learned from the other industries I worked in and brought that knowledge and experience over to this sector.

Marissa: How long have you been with Dataprise?
Dawn: 11 years.

Marissa: Can you share a little bit about what it is that you do and what a typical day for you is like?
Dawn: I wear several different hats here, and any given day can bring different challenges and solutions. A typical day for me includes assisting clients with requests, facilitating clients’ onboarding, and performing various administrative tasks. Vendor management and service audits are also a large part of my job.

Marissa: What is one piece of advice you’d give to young women looking to get into the technology field?
Dawn: Do not make gender roles your number one focus. Focus on yourself—evolving, learning expanding, and getting certifications!

Marissa: What do you wish you had known when you were considering a technology career?
Dawn: I wish I had known the “gender gap” (perceived or not) is shrinking, and I wish I had not let my insecurities guide my decisions earlier in my career path. Women stand out in this field, so let your natural light shine!

Marissa: What do you think is the best part of being a woman in the technology industry?
Dawn: Opportunities and growth! Opportunities are opening up to women more and more each day—female technology positions are growing over 200% faster than their male counterparts. We can shape and create our own paths!

What is it that you enjoy most about your current job at Dataprise?
Dawn: The collaboration is so inspiring here at Dataprise! Everyone’s voice is heard, and the team mentality is like no other place I have ever worked.

Marissa: Where do you see yourself going from here?
Dawn: I hope to continue to enhance the Dataprise experience for our clients while hopefully helping to institute ITIL standards and practices.