30572_Kao Data Critical Careers_Pages - Flipbook - Page 66
Where would you like women’s
roles to go in the industry?
What advice would you give
to encourage others to join
the industry?
hat I love about the industry is that it’s really
encouraged me to be ambitious. For a long
time, women were made to feel that being
ambitious was a negative trait, but in this space, it’s
celebrated. I’ve seen amazing women in leadership
roles, as keynote speakers, making critical decisions
for their organisations. This speaks volumes about
how far things have come and where the industry
is heading.
y biggest piece of advice would be to look
beyond the surface. The data centre industry
might not seem glamorous at 昀椀rst—it’s heavy
on construction, engineering, and technology.
W
As for where I’d like to see the role of women go in
the future, I think it’s crucial that women continue
to shape the future of work and society. We have
different perspectives and attributes, and that’s what
makes us so valuable. Diversity in the workplace leads
to solving more problems, as diverse perspectives
bring unique solutions. For example, I’m dyslexic, and
I bring a perspective that someone who doesn’t have
that experience might never understand. But that’s
what’s beautiful about each of us—as women we’re
not trying to be men in dresses or follow an old-school
path. We’re embracing our uniqueness, and that
diversity makes us better.
I hope in the future, women are even more recognised
for the diverse skill sets we bring to the table.
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But don’t let that put you off. This industry is
fundamental to how society, culture, and technology
will progress. It’s exciting because we’re literally
creating the foundation for what the future will look
like, and no one really knows exactly where it’s going,
which makes it thrilling. It’s an industry that offers
great opportunities.
If you can 昀椀nd a career within digital infrastructure
that 昀椀ts you, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it.
The money’s good, the respect you get is solid, and
you have this front-row seat to what’s coming next
in tech and society. You get to see how all these
different industries and technologies connect, which is
something not many other 昀椀elds can offer.
So, my advice is, don’t dismiss it. No matter what
you’re interested in, there’s probably a place for you
in digital infrastructure. It’s a fast-paced, ever-evolving
昀椀eld with a lot to offer.
