By Aparajita Mukhopadhyay
In the realm of technology, leadership often defies traditional boundaries, reflecting a journey unique to each individual. I vividly recall a leadership session where I shared my role as the leader of both the tech and HR teams. The coordinator’s surprised chuckle underscored the unconventional nature of my position, adding a touch of humour to the moment. This incident made me realise the uniqueness of my role and the joy I find in managing both departments.
My journey spans 31 years in the tech industry, marked by various “personal winters” of no vertical growth. Despite these challenges, my passion for software engineering kept me going. Over time, I integrated a tech aspect into my work as I aged. My learning, whether technical or interpersonal, has predominantly been on the job. Staying technically relevant requires continuous learning, which can be daunting, but engaging in discussions about emerging technologies with my children has been eye-opening. It’s amazing to see how deeply immersed today’s youth are in the world of tech. Their natural curiosity and enthusiasm for all things digital constantly push me to stay informed and think critically about the ever-evolving tech landscape.
Moreover, I make an effort to engage in self-reading to effectively communicate with my team, and I draw significant inspiration from the talented young individuals I work with daily. Interacting with these bright minds not only keeps me informed about the latest advancements but also instills a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose. Their innovative ideas and fresh perspectives challenge me to think outside the box and push the boundaries of what’s possible.
My advice to women in tech is:
Identify and nurture leadership
Through my experiences, I’ve come to realise that leadership transcends titles. I encourage women to recognise and cultivate leadership qualities within themselves and others, fostering a culture of empowerment and growth.
Overcome challenges
I’ve observed a tendency among women in tech to shy away from hardcore tech roles due to perceived upskilling challenges. I advocate for policies that support and empower women in transitioning to and excelling in tech leadership positions, facilitating their professional growth and development.
