Dataprise Women in Technology: Meet Ashley

This month for our Women in Technology, we are spotlighting Ashley, our Assistant Controller! Read about her story and how she started in technology.

Tell us your story on how you got into technology.

I got into the technology industry by accident. I was looking for a job in Austin after graduate school, and I found job post for a company on Craigslist. It turned out to be a PE backed software company I ended up working for almost 5 years and growing my career significantly.

How long have you been with Dataprise?

Almost 2 years!

Can you share a little bit about what it is that you do and what a typical day for you is like?

I am the Assistant Controller, and I am part of the accounting team. I help manage our month end closing of the accounting books, assist with cash management, and manage our Accounts Payable team. My days can really vary depending on the time of the month and the deliverables. Depending on where we are in the close process, I will meet with the team to ensure we are on track for timing and understand any issues.  I also help other teams throughout the days whether there is a credit card issue or help with understanding margins.

What advice would you give to women considering a career in the tech industry? What do you wish you had known?

The tech industry is an amazing space for growing a career. There is so much opportunity to learn and to develop. I wish I had known how many women a part of the industry. I have worked with some great women leaders in my tech career. It has been amazing!

Why do you think it’s important for more women to join the tech industry? How can the broader community support women in tech?

I think women are well supported in the tech industry. From my experience, I have received some great mentoring from women in the industry. I think the hardest part about being in the industry is being a working mom. The balance can be challenging with kids. In my experience, most companies/team will support you as needed anytime something comes up! There are also many working moms in the industry that understand and will provide great advice.

What do you think is the best part of being a woman in the tech industry?

The best part about being a woman in tech is helping mentor other women in tech! I love using my experience to provide guidance and help to other women who are wishing to grow their career in the industry.

What is it that you enjoy most about your current job at Dataprise?

My team – the people in the Finance and Account Department are hardworking, great people. Everyone works very well together, and we all know we are working toward a common goal. It is wonderful to be surrounded by good people in the work environment.

What is the best professional advice you’ve ever received?

The best advice I have ever received was something I read in an article. It said something along the lines “do not try to do everything yourself as that is an impossible task”. This has always resonated with me. It is important to work hard, but also to know when to ask for help or delegate items you cannot get done yourself.

Where do you see yourself going from here?

I am very happy in my current role and am excited to grow at Dataprise! Being here only 2 years, I still have a lot to learn. I am excited to see what the new year brings!