How Identity Has Influenced A Vice President IT Operations At EAH Housing's Career
Identifying as a woman in tech, the career professional aims to be a role model, especially for those who might feel intimidated by the male-dominated field, as the professional once did, and, through volunteering and encouraging learning, hopes to inspire others to pursue their interests regardless of perceived limitations, emphasizing that "there's none" when it comes to "stupid questions". The professional recognizes the progress made, with more women in government, media, and sports, and seeks to contribute to this positive change by sharing experiences and promoting opportunities for women in tech.
Women in Tech, Role Models, Career Advancement, Overcoming Intimidation, Social Networking
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Leslie Dabi
VP, IT Operations
EAH Housing (EAH Inc.)
UC Davis
Purdue Global University: MS Information Technology
Spanish & Other Languages, International Relations & Affairs
Nonprofit, Foundations & Grantmaking, Real Estate
Cyber Security and IT
None Applicable
Video Highlights
1. Being intimidated by the male-dominated environment in tech during her early career but now wanting to be a role model for other women.
2. Highlighting the positive impact of women in tech groups and STEM programs in providing support and opportunities.
3. Encouraging people to pursue their interests regardless of perceptions and to not hesitate to ask questions, emphasizing continuous learning.
Transcript
As someone who identifies as a woman in tech, how has that impacted how you've navigated your career?
Overall, I just want to be a role model. I think going through my younger years, I was intimidated because the majority of people in my class and in the industry were male. I really shouldn't have let that hold me back.
In my later years, I see all these amazing groups. Back in my day, social networking wasn't as heavy as it is now. There are so many impactful groups for women in tech, and STEM programs to push more women into these fields. It's amazing.
I've volunteered and asked if they ever wanted me to speak at some of these groups. I just want to push it forward and give those opportunities to people who might have had the same hesitation as I did. Perhaps they thought, "I'll just do this comfortable job."
If someone is interested in a field, they should pursue it no matter how they might be perceived, or who has done well in those industries. It's changed so much, not just in tech and STEM, but even in government and media. The roles have changed.
When it comes to sports too, females are reporters and doing sports. It's pretty amazing from when I grew up. I'm hoping that everyone sees these role models. I could be an additional role model for someone who wants to get into tech.
In the programs we do at our organization, I'm always enthusiastic. Let's learn! I encourage anyone who wants to learn. Don't worry about asking stupid questions; there are none.
Even if it's just learning how an application works, or what cybersecurity is about, I love sharing my experiences. I hope that someone else who might have hesitation can see me as someone they can reach out to.