TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF
I received my B.S. in Computer Science and M.S. in Cybersecurity from Fordham University. Following several roles in the cybersecurity field, I entered the blockchain industry with IoTeX. I am also a hobbyist developer with an interest in ethical hacking.
HOW DID YOU LAND YOUR CURRENT ROLE? WAS IT PLANNED?
I became interested in blockchain technology while working in the cybersecurity field. My first formal introduction to the space was as a blockchain analyst, writing reports and articles to demonstrate how blockchain can disrupt traditional industries. After learning so much about the benefits of blockchain, I decided to pursue a career in the Web3 space and educate others on its potential to power a more equitable tech landscape.
That led me directly to my current role at IoTeX- a blockchain connecting IoT devices, data, and utility to applications. As the marketing lead, I love translating technical concepts into understandable topics everyone can feel excited about as well as I do.
Although women are highly underrepresented in the blockchain industry, more are joining the space every day. It is important to me that I use my role to share my perspective and contribute my knowledge to the rapidly developing space.
WHAT ARE THE KEY ROLES IN YOUR FIELD OF WORK, AND WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR CURRENT EXPERTISE?
In the Web3 space, there is a demand for both technical and non-technical roles. Blockchain engineers are actively pioneering the next wave of disruptive tech and shaping the future internet. However, there is a massive need for communicators to explain this powerful reality adequately. That is what drew me to my current role. The key to the mass adoption of Web3 will be education, and I am thrilled that I have the opportunity to use my skill set to contribute to this larger goal.
DID YOU (OR DO YOU) HAVE A ROLE MODEL IN TECH OR BUSINESS IN GENERAL?
Cathy O’Neil and her book Weapons of Math Destruction have greatly influenced my career path thus far and helped align my ethical values within my daily work. She explains how big data significantly reinforces social inequality and injustices when algorithms are created and understood by only a select few, impacting millions of people’s lives daily. That genuinely drove my desire to make tech more accessible to all and reshape current models that do not benefit the greater good. As more diverse individuals join the blockchain space, different points of view will be more accurately reflected in the technology being created.
ARE THERE ANY SPECIFIC SKILLS OR TRAITS THAT YOU NOTICE COMPANIES LOOK FOR WHEN YOU’RE SEARCHING FOR ROLES IN YOUR FIELD?
A willingness to learn is a highly admirable trait in Web3 and the broader tech industry. The space is constantly evolving, which can feel daunting at times. The more you dive into understanding new trends and technologies, the less overwhelming it feels, and the more confident you will become as a result.
ENTERING THE WORLD OF WORK CAN BE DAUNTING. DO YOU HAVE ANY WORDS OF ADVICE FOR ANYONE FEELING OVERWHELMED?
My favorite piece of advice comes from Reshma Saujani, activist and founder of Girls Who Code, with the title of her book: “Brave, Not Perfect.” Fighting to close the gender gap in tech, she challenges women to be unafraid of taking risks despite the fear of making mistakes. When I first began learning how to code, it felt like an insurmountable task to reach the same level as my peers. However, the most valuable lesson I learned is that every tiny step of progress accumulated shapes my knowledge today. Feeling overwhelmed is best combated by taking brave steps- no matter how big or small- every day. And they do not need to be perfect.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE OTHER WOMEN WANTING TO REACH THEIR CAREER GOALS IN TECHNOLOGY?
Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals is one of the best ways to grow your career. There are so many diverse paths to take within tech, and hearing the personal experiences of others can help you explore options you may never have known existed. Especially meeting other women on similar career journeys can be incredibly empowering and motivating. Don’t be afraid to reach out to potential mentors, join online communities, or attend meetups in your city.
