Women in Technology: Meet Andrea

Marissa: Tell us your story on how you got into technology?

Andrea: Technology has always played a role in my previous jobs, but it all really started when I worked at a cemetery in Los Angeles. My role included being the onsite IT helpdesk person assisting end users with basic IT and technical issues. Through that role, I worked closely with an IT MSP and the rest is history!

Marissa: Did you always know that working in technology was what you wanted to do?

Andrea: Not originally, but I’ve always been interested and enjoyed working with technology and tended to be the go-to person to fix minor IT issues – that part of IT assistance always interested me.

Marissa: How long have you been with Dataprise? 

Andrea: Not originally, but I’ve always been interested and enjoyed working with technology and tended to be the go-to person to fix minor IT issues – that part of IT assistance always interested me.

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

Andrea: I have a dual role, which is managing the Account Managers for the Wireless Watchdogs Division and being an Account Manager, which is a Service Delivery Management role. My day ranges from working directly with clients on projects, escalations, and solving issues, to working with employees and providing training, resources, documentation of procedures and policies for the department, and making sure we’re on track with our goals. I also work closely with Sales to guide and oversee new client onboarding.

Marissa: What is one piece of advice you would give to young women looking to get into the technology field?

Andrea: Just go for it! Don’t be afraid to stand out and make a place for yourself in this industry. You more than likely will find that you flourish and have great success.

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

Andrea: The sky’s the limit when it comes to a career in the tech industry. Technology has so many doors within doors, and the possibilities are endless. I wish I would’ve known sooner that technology is not as intimidating as it seems and not let fear hold me back as long as it did. What do you wish you had known? Be assertive but be kind. Don’t doubt what you bring to the table. Don’t be afraid of not knowing everything or having answers for everything. Be eager and willing to learn and know that your experience is valuable. I wish I would have followed this advice myself much earlier in my life.

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

Andrea: The fact that no one expects or understands the possibilities available to women in the industry and the success they can reach. I think it empowers others and helps them see they can succeed and contribute to this industry in a different way.

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

Andrea: I enjoy the opportunity to learn and grow as well as being able to work with and manage teams and collaborate with others to build a better work environment and service offering.

Marissa: Where do you see yourself going from here?

Andrea: Maybe Cyber, maybe HR – who knows? The possibilities are endless!