Women in tech: curiosity, courage & backing yourself
There have been more than a few times in my career when I've been asked, "So, who's the CTO here?" to which I usually respond with a laugh and a simple, "That would be me."
It's a brief exchange, one that comes out of habit, but it highlights a broader reality. Across my 20-year-long tech career, I've spent most of it in high-pressure, technical environments that were traditionally male-dominated, from FIFO mining to engineering and now to financial services.
Early in my career, I became accustomed to being the only woman in the room. But as we celebrate International Women's Day, it feels like there is no better time to provide a positive future outlook on where gender equality is heading.
Today, as the Chief Technology, Data and Transformation Officer at Milford Asset Management, I lead a team of 20 specialists. Nine of those roles are held by women - a number I am proud of and passionate about growing, not just for the sake of diversity, but for the strength of the industry.
I often tell the young women I mentor that there is no "right" way to enter tech. I call my career "squiggly" - it's nonlinear and has been shaped by curiosity rather than a checklist. I didn't start with a computer science degree; my path began with ad-hoc roles overseas, various contracting work, where I found myself gravitating towards the tech teams. I watched what they did, worked alongside them, realised it solved real-world problems, and thought "I can do that".
If the basement coding stereotype has held you back, just know that the reality is far more human. Modern tech leadership holds people and communication at its core. Curiosity and continuous learning across your career, especially in the age of AI, are essential. You don't have to be an expert, but hold an understanding of how data and tech can be applied to solve problems for businesses. The tech industry requires people who can learn, change and adapt quickly, and in turn, it provides a valuable skill set that allows you to pivot into multiple different directions. My own open-mindedness toward different learning opportunities, projects and industries has paved the way for my success as a leader.
In a world where we are constantly, and rightly so, discussing the barriers that women face, I feel as though my experience offers a slightly refreshing perspective. I have never really felt gender bias in the workplace, despite knowing the pervasive impact it has. I recognise this isn't necessarily the norm, and count myself as fortunate to have had exemplary male leaders throughout my career. Those who have championed my growth and prioritised talent, regardless of gender.
My experience shouldn't be seen as the exception - it should be seen as the goal. I have reached this position because I worked within structures that nurtured my career. Growth happens when both talent and innovation are recognised as the primary currency.
Beyond the fostering that happens within the workplace, building your own strong personal network of women in tech or leadership to bounce ideas off and find support within is essential in this constantly changing environment. You never know when you, or someone in your orbit, will need the spark of encouragement, or calming rationality that only another woman who has been in the same position can provide.
If I could give one piece of advice to women entering Tech, it is this: stay curious and back yourself. My curiosity, courage and mindset to continuously change and improve things are the reason I'm sitting here today.
Seven years ago, I moved my family from Australia to New Zealand because I put myself forward to lead a major project. At the time, I had just bought a house for my young family. Some colleagues were surprised that I would volunteer for such a massive undertaking during that season of life.
I had to set aside the unspoken expectations society places on mothers, and I stepped up because I knew I was capable. This single decision opened a door that completely changed my career trajectory, and was one that I could have easily let pass me by, due to fear or staying comfortable.
On International Women's Day, my message to women is to trust yourself. Leadership doesn't come from waiting for a seat at the table - you just need to be the person who says, "I'm willing to take that on".
And to the industry, my challenge is to examine the structures that allowed me to thrive - mentorship, merit-based hiring, and the space for women to speak up and voice their ideas. When we focus on building truly representative teams, we don't just create equity; we build a more powerful and innovative industry for everyone.