Haripriya is a software technologist with 20 plus years of experience in the wireless industry, across multiple technologies 4G, 5G, WLAN among others. She has a demonstrated history of product conceptualization, architecture, execution and delivery in the wireless industry. Haripriya has been a part of the core technical teams, working on cutting edge technologies in startups like EdgeQ and in MNCs like Broadcom. She also has considerable experience in mentoring and leading teams, designing solutions and technical management.
AS WOMEN IN TECHNOLOGY OUR EXPERIENCES DIFFER FROM OUR MALE COUNTERPARTS IN VARIOUS WAYS.
Though improvements have been made, the industry overall still does not have an equal ratio of men and women. However, though there may be an unequal distribution of women in the technology industry, those who are in the industry today are passionate about their work. Empowering women to lead in tech entrepreneurship is crucial for addressing these disparities and fostering greater gender balance.
In particular, the hard sciences and engineering field has always been a challenge to women and minorities. Being a woman in this field means bringing a unique perspective to a traditionally male dominated field. Current women in the field stand on the shoulders of other women who have helped pave the way, and I hope I can also be an example for future women engineers.
Wireless communications engineering is a very interesting, challenging and innovative field shaping our connected world. It has been a very enriching and rewarding experience to be able to contribute to ground breaking technologies, solving complex problems and mentoring younger, innovative minds. It is heartening to see an increase in the participation of women in this field. However, there is always room for more.
Our generation is bringing a new perspective on women in technology and we’re proud to be a part of this shift. I’d like to share with you a few tips for being a woman in technology.
BE PREPARED FOR THE UNEXPECTED
In an ever changing industry, it’s likely you will have to wear multiple hats throughout your career. From being an individual contributor on a team, to architecting solutions for complex problems, providing technical leadership and mentoring fellow team members, change is inevitable and it’s crucial to be nimble to these changes. Always being ready to step in and lead when the opportunity presents is what will set you apart from others.
We must be prepared to take on any challenge that comes our way.
BE A LEADER FOR OTHER WOMEN IN MALE-DOMINATED INDUSTRIES
In a rapidly changing society, women continue to play a vital role as primary caretakers of their families, attending to their children’s well-being and the needs of other family members. To support this essential role, the industry must adopt more flexible and accommodating practices. This is crucial for Closing the Gender Gap in STEM: Additional Measures Needed.
I am fortunate in this regard, and have always had an empathetic team and colleagues throughout my career. The genuine support and encouragement from my peers and executives is one of the hallmarks of my company’s culture.
But, I have observed that the toll of managing both work and home fronts, and striking a work-life balance is very challenging to most women in the field of engineering. As women, we are a part of the change and a driving force behind changing the narrative for future generations.
CONTINUE TO PURSUE YOUR PASSION IN TECHNOLOGY
I advise women to actively pursue career paths in technology as they can bring a discernible value-add to this field through their enriched experience and diverse thinking. I would also urge the companies to actively facilitate an affirmative environment for women, and help them strike a balance in their work and personal commitments. This would be a win-win situation for both the women in tech and the tech industry.
As a woman in technology it’s my goal to continue to pursue my passion and create solutions that support innovation. For myself and others in this field, we are rewriting the narrative to what many associate with this industry. Our generation is laying the foundation for future minds to support these efforts and provide a guided pathway’. The growth of women in tech is expanding and it’s great to see the increased diversity they are bringing.
