Ruth (she/her)

Senior Software Engineer

I got into tech after graduating with a chemistry degree but wasn't able to find a job related to chemistry in my local area (I was living with my parents in Wiltshire). I sent my CV out to various local companies, including a software company, who invited me for an interview. I must have impressed them, as they sent me a hand-delivered job offer that evening! I did have some prior coding experience though, as my thesis for my final year uni project was on Computational Fluid Dynamics, and I'd spent the best part of a year programming in C for that. I've worked in tech ever since - I love the variety of business areas that I've worked in - from ticket machines for the Hong Kong underground through to projects for the Crown Courts, the Driving Standards Agency, and the FA Women's Super League. Likewise I love that tech never stands still and there's always more to learn - so I never get bored or stagnate! I think others should consider a career in tech because it's a well-paid, reasonably stable career that's generally in high demand, and it's also really interesting and exciting. Not all roles involve code either - project managers, scrum masters, delivery leads, user interface and experience designers, business analysts and testers are all in demand.

Tech was also a really great place for me to transition as a trans woman - I've found it generally really welcoming and diverse. I transitioned in the 2010s, although I wish I'd transitioned sooner in hindsight. I've found that my transition has been great for my career too - as I'm a lot more outgoing, and better at things like teamwork, collaboration, and leadership since I'm happy in my own skin at last.