FIVE MINUTES WITH ...
“ Tech is changing the world as we know it , so it ’ s incredibly important that we diversify the space ”
Q . OVER THE COURSE OF YOUR 35-YEAR CAREER , CAN YOU PINPOINT SOME OF THE MOST REVOLUTIONARY CHANGES YOU ’ VE WITNESSED ?
» There have really been so many changes . For example , the journey from analogue to 5G now , and , of course , we ’ re working on the development of 6G . There ’ s also the integration of satellite communications beginning to come in and fill the gap to ensure we ’ re able to be always connected – specifically relevant for rural communities and developing countries .
I ’ ve also seen a really interesting cultural transition in that 35-year period . The industry is much more focused on DEI and how we make sure that there ’ s respect for every age , race , and gender . Although there ’ s still a lot of work to be done , we have experienced significant change .
Q . ON A SIMILAR NOTE , WHAT WAS YOUR EXPERIENCE BEING A FEMALE LEADER IN A MALE-DOMINATED SECTOR ?
» In many ways , I ’ ve had incredible support as a female . I ’ ve had great mentors and sponsors , but I ’ ve also seen the struggle that so many women face – for example , not having the same opportunity that their male colleagues have . It tends to be that women progress to a place where they achieve a certain role , but it takes them longer because they have had to work harder and prove they ’ re capable – as opposed to male colleagues , who often just need to demonstrate the potential of being capable .
As we find ourselves having deeper conversations around what ’ s involved in scaling for women and people of colour , we ’ re finding we all must be active about driving change . I also believe that this is not a women ’ s issue ; this is a leadership and economic issue that we ’ re all responsible for resolving . So , we need to stop talking about the problem and lean into actions to scale the opportunity for equity and equality .
Q . HOW DID YOU BOOST DEI AT VERIZON DURING YOUR CAREER ?
» After digging into DEI data , I decided to create a programme called Women of Wireless , which yielded incredible results . I helped women build their confidence and personal brands while encouraging them to take sales jobs , so that they could enjoy the compensation opportunities .
18 June 2023