What does IWD mean to you?

If I am honest, I never envisioned working at a GIS software development company. In sixth form, I found maps interesting, especially when used as infographics to enhance news coverage of events like the US Election. I was first introduced to GIS during a field trip for my A Level Coursework to Minehead, when I used ArcGIS to map regeneration statistics in the area. I went on to study Geography at the University of Leeds and took on more complex GIS modules relating to location planning. After graduating, I was exploring opportunities in different industries and saw the job at 1Spatial and thought “why not?”. I was eager to develop my GIS and consultancy skills, and I am so glad that I took the chance to apply. Working in the Tech industry is definitely something I am really proud of.

When I first joined 1Spatial, I struggled with imposter syndrome. I wouldn’t describe myself as a techie and I feared that my ADHD may hinder my performance in a role where accuracy is crucial. Although I had some experience using GIS software like QGIS, I had never worked with databases, didn’t know about different data models, and had never used the 1Spatial software which is central to the NUAR process. In addition, moving from a mostly female team in my last job to a male-dominated industry was a bit of a shock for me.

That being said, the whole of my team have been so supportive. Since joining, I have learnt so many invaluable skills (both technical and not) and have found it rewarding to rise to the various challenges presented to me, and prove to myself that I am capable of working in this industry.

The representation of women in Tech is key for empowering the next generation and accelerating change. International Women's Day has inspired me to reflect on the exceptional female leaders in the GIS industry. I really enjoyed the AGI GeoCom Conference back in November, where I heard from a wide range of female leaders in the GIS industry about the projects that they were championing. Professor Flora Samuel’s ‘Public Map Platform’ project stood out to me. The project aims to create a mapping tool that captures what truly matters to communities. It initially focused on collecting environmental, social and cultural data with local communities on the Isle of Anglesey but aspires to become nationwide. Professor Flora Samuel and her team believe that by integrating the voices of our diverse communities and representing spatial data on an accessible platform, they can enhance better decision making.

Seeing women in leadership roles at 1Spatial, and across the board in Tech, is really important to me, not just for representation but to also encourage practices that can accelerate gender equality.

I have found 1Spatial to be a very inclusive and welcoming environment with good policies, such as flexible working hours, giving women a platform to speak and providing mental health and fertility ambassadors. Having an open forum for topics, often considered taboo, is a great example of accelerating change for gender equality.

To me, International Women’s Day and the idea of accelerating change means that no woman should ever feel incapable of pursuing something because of her gender. It is about empowering women to be confident and believe in themselves and their abilities. Continuing to eliminate gender bias in education through providing girls and women with equal access to good quality education in STEM subjects would support the empowerment of women in Tech .

My advice to any women thinking about a career in Tech would be to definitely give it a go. Don’t let your previous work experience, your education or preconceived ideas about the industry stop you - keep learning new things.