30572_Kao Data Critical Careers_Pages - Flipbook - Page 15
What are the skills that are
essential for success in this
industry?
T
o succeed in this industry, the ability to
embrace large-scale projects and adapt
quickly is key.
Strong organizational skills are essential, whether
you’re managing a team, working as an engineer,
or coordinating with clients.
No matter your role, being able to juggle
complex tasks and work with diverse teams is
crucial. Many women naturally excel in logistics
and management, which can be a huge
advantage in this industry.
Being open to the technical side is equally
important. Even if you’re not in a purely technical
role, having an understanding of the engineering
aspects allows you to engage in meaningful
conversations and make informed decisions.
Whether in project management, marketing,
or any other function, a willingness to learn and
engage with the technical side of data centres
will set you apart and drive success in this space.
15
Creating a Community
WD began as a small, organic gathering of
women in the data centre industry who saw
a gap—there was no dedicated, Londonbased community for women in this space. In
early 2024, a handful of us came together, not
with a grand plan, but with a shared desire to
create something tangible that would genuinely
improve our work lives. It wasn’t about business
development or just another networking event; it
was about building real connections, relationships,
and making the industry feel a little less isolating.
rom what I hear at FWD events,
there’s a strong desire among
younger women for more
mentorship and role models in the industry.
They want to see people who are similar
to them ahead in their careers, making it
easier to envision their own path forward.
Mentorship, whether it’s gender-based or
otherwise, plays a key role in helping them
navigate their professional journeys.
F
F
We committed to quarterly events that welcomed
women at all levels, especially those new to
the industry—not just senior leaders. As we’ve
progressed in our careers, the lack of diversity has
become more noticeable. Early on, you’re focused
on learning and 昀椀nding your place. But as you
advance, the responsibility to shape the industry
grows, and the gaps become harder to ignore.
For experienced, more senior women
in the industry, the focus is often on the
value of connecting with others in similar
roles—there’s a sense of camaraderie in
these spaces that makes networking feel
more genuine and less like a formal task.
The ability to have meaningful, semi-workrelated conversations with other women is
something I personally really enjoy.
When I entered the industry, I was learning
everything from scratch. It was a steep curve, but a
supportive culture helped. Still, the further I went,
the more I saw the need for something like FWD—
not just for women at the top, but for every woman
to feel seen, heard, and supported.
We’re still evolving, still exploring new formats,
but at its core, FWD is about one thing: creating
a community where women in data centres—
regardless of experience—can build meaningful
connections and support one another in making
this industry feel more like home.
It feels more relaxed and authentic
compared to the often more businessheavy conversations we have at broader
industry events.
