By Patricia Sanchez, Interaction Designer at Mercator Digital
I’ve always had a fascination with technology – whether it was playing around with new apps and software, trying out different creative tools like Adobe Photoshop to create illustrations, or experimenting with basic coding. During the pandemic, I even built my own PC from scratch. As a Gen Zer who grew up with technology, I had always been interested in technology’s potential to improve lives or enable people to express their creativity.
Yet, initially, I never considered working in tech. I studied and worked in marketing for four years, only to realise I was more fascinated in how users interact with products, not how they’re promoted. So I shifted towards user-centred design, where I could design the digital experiences themselves and be involved with the development of a digital product or service.
Making the switch to tech wasn’t easy, as I found myself questioning my next move. Should I pursue a Master’s, attend a bootcamp, or teach myself? The job market was competitive, and I didn’t always have the experience required to land my ideal role right away.
Eventually, I decided to pursue a Master’s in Human-Computer Interaction Design at City St George’s, University of London, where I could take a deep dive into the theory behind user experience design and learn from experts in the field. The coursework helped me build a strong foundation while also giving me the chance to grow my portfolio.
The next challenge was finding my first role in tech.
I took matters into my own hands and volunteered to redesign my local GP’s website. I applied user research and UX practices to the project, which gave me hands-on experience and a real chance to put what I had learned into action. I also landed internships in tech companies where I worked with design and tech teams which helped me build my portfolio, gain real-world skills, and boost my confidence.
For those looking to follow a similar path, my advice is to look for opportunities beyond traditional tech roles. Look for volunteer projects with local nonprofits or small businesses that need digital support. Hackathons, design challenges, and pro-bono work are great ways to gain practical experience and build your portfolio. Each project, no matter how small, is an opportunity to learn and demonstrate your skills to potential employers.
And remember – while it’s easy to feel like you’re not ‘good enough’ or ‘qualified enough’, it’s important to celebrate the small wins along the way. Every new skill you learn, every project you complete, and every interview you go through is a step forward. Stay focused on your growth and don’t compare your journey to anyone else’s. Your path is unique to you.
Another important reminder is that tech is a field for everyone, no matter your background. Whether you come from a design, business, or completely different field, there are countless ways to contribute and make an impact. The most important thing is to find what excites you and dive in. It may take some time to secure your first tech role – but keep pushing.
This is where things like mentorship, online resources and communities are invaluable. Having a mentor to provide guidance and feedback made all the difference, while online resources helped me stay up-to-date with the latest trends and tools.
My advice on how to break into tech
My advice for other women is to get out there. Attend industry meetups, join online tech communities, and don’t be afraid to connect with professionals in your desired field. Industry-specific groups like SheCanCode can provide invaluable support and guidance.
I am so glad I took a leap as now I get to work for a company that fosters an inclusive company culture, provides ongoing support and mentoring, and shares my passion for creating digital experiences. On a daily basis at Mercator Digital, I’m exploring design concepts, building interactive prototypes, and collaborating closely with cross-functional teams – including developers, user researchers and content designers – to improve the usability of public digital services. I love that I am able to blend my creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking to solve real-world problems. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see my designs make a difference.
If you’re a first time-jobber looking to break into tech, I’d love to connect and share stories.
