Women in Technology: Meet Aramide

Marissa: Tell us your story on how you first got into technology?
Aramide: I was always surrounded by people who were technologically inclined and talented; however, I never thought this was a path that a woman was supposed to follow. During my college days, I took my first computer class, which I really enjoyed. This led to my curiosity in computers and computer-related work as a whole.

Marissa: At one point did you determine you wanted to pursue an IT career?
Aramide: In college, as my curiosity in the field developed, I was privileged to find out that one of the women in a local group which I belonged to was an IT professional. She had a background in Computer Science and was a Programmer by profession. She became my first mentor in the IT field and was one of the first people who enlightened me as to the different sectors of IT and the possibilities for women in the technology profession.

Marissa: Can you share a little bit about what it is that you do and what a typical day for you is like?
Aramide: I’m a Linux/Windows Project Engineer, so I am assigned to work with specific clients on Linux- and Windows-related projects. My role is different from a traditional IT job in that I am not assigned to just one environment, I work in multiple environments daily. A typical day involves working with my clients in building, maintaining, testing, resolving, and making recommendations for their specific IT infrastructure.

Marissa: What advice would you give to young women looking to get into the technology field?
Aramide: My best advice is go for it!  Never let anyone let you believe that it’s not for you. As long as you have an interest, there is a place for you in the technology field. Also, explore! Explore the different possible areas in technology and through mentoring, internships/volunteer opportunities, and researching, make a decision as to where your interest lies. Lastly, set goals on your achievements in the IT field and strongly pursue those goals by involving and immersing yourself in training that will enhance your skills, increase your knowledge, and eventually move you to where you want to be.

Marissa: What do you think is the best part of being a woman in the tech industry?
Aramide: You are often in the minority being a woman working in the tech industry, which is sometimes the best part. You’ll face some challenges, but when you are good at what you do, you really stand out and get the respect and recognition you deserve for the value you bring.

Marissa: What is it that you enjoy most about your current job at Dataprise?
Aramide: I enjoy the flexibility of my job and the culture at Dataprise. I like the fact that everyone strives to be supportive, respectful, positive, open, and transparent. I have also gotten the opportunity to be exposed to new technologies, which has helped broaden my scope of technical knowledge.

Marissa: Where do you see yourself going from here?
Aramide: Continuing to advance my skills and knowledge – specifically, in cloud technologies with cross- implementation with security and automation. I foresee this as being a necessity for all IT professionals in the upcoming years.