In an increasingly technology-driven world, it is essential to highlight and recognize female talent in the field of technology. In this series, we focus on the experts from Devoteam G Cloud who are at the forefront of progress in the exciting and rapidly evolving world of Google Cloud. In this article, we will meet Wendolin Damian, Lead Data Engineer at Devoteam G Cloud Spain, who will share her experience and insights in the field of Data Engineering.
Facing Challenges and Making an Impact
As the Lead Data Engineer at Devoteam G Cloud Spain, Wendolin holds a leadership position in the Data Factory project for L’Oréal, an internationally recognized client of Devoteam. Her responsibility lies in managing projects in production, collaborating proactively with the Build team to optimize performance and minimize costs. Her strong background in mathematics and previous experience in financial consulting and software development support her ability to effectively tackle technical challenges.
A Nonlinear Journey Towards Data Engineering
Wendolin’s career path has been non-linear, demonstrating that diversity of experiences can enrich the field of technology. Although her academic background is not in engineering but in mathematics, Wendolin found a connection between her analytical skills and programming during her work in financial consulting. After obtaining her doctorate in mathematics and working as a researcher, she decided to explore the field of data engineering and joined Devoteam G Cloud in 2021. Her determination and adaptability serve as inspiring examples for women interested in technology careers.
The Value of Diversity and Collaboration
For Wendolin, the best part of her work lies in the combination of technical and soft skills. In addition to her technical expertise, her ability to communicate and collaborate with different professionals due to her extensive experience in various sectors such as data scientists and software developers has been key to the success of the projects she has been involved in.
However, what Wendolin enjoys the most is interacting with clients and colleagues. Building trusting relationships with clients and collaborating as a team are aspects that bring her satisfaction in her daily work. She emphasizes the equal opportunities at Devoteam G Cloud, where all team members, regardless of their seniority or experience, have the opportunity to contribute and be heard.
Overcoming Obstacles and Empowering Women
As a woman in the ICT field, Wendolin recognizes the challenges she faces. However, she has learned to overcome these obstacles and has found support in women in technology communities, where she shares experiences and advice with other professionals.
Wendolin is committed to empowering more women to choose careers in technology. She believes that fostering diversity and inclusion in organizations is crucial to creating an environment where everyone can thrive. Additionally, she encourages women interested in technology to seek mentors and not be afraid to take risks and learn new skills.
The IT Industry as a Male-Dominated Space
Reflecting on her experiences, Wendolin acknowledges that she has often worked in male-dominated sectors, including finance, academic research, and technology. However, it was in the IT sector where she realized the possible differences and challenges that women face. As a non-engineer entering the field, she encountered the additional barrier of gender bias.
Wendolin shares moments when she felt compelled to hide her emotions, fearing they would be perceived as a weakness. However, she now firmly believes that her empathy and transparency are some of her greatest virtues. She has also questioned herself when giving orders to subordinates, concerned that the assertiveness she demonstrated would be perceived as aggression in a context where a man’s authority would not even be questioned.
These experiences contribute to her desire to create a more inclusive and diverse environment in the IT industry. Wendolin encourages women considering a career in IT to:
- Embrace change and face challenges without fear. Accept that mistakes can happen and that they are part of the learning process.
- Surround themselves with an environment that fosters healthy growth, learning, and does not punish.
- Seek support both within and outside the company, through women in technology associations that provide visibility, empowerment, and opportunities for training and networking.
Wendolin advises women entering the workforce to:
Find a mentor in the field they are entering. Someone with professional experience who can provide advice on how to navigate their career, create an action plan, anticipate obstacles, and provide support in overcoming them.
Wendolin Damian
Lead Data Engineer, Devoteam G Cloud Spain
Wendolin’s Future Challenges
On a technical level, she would like to delve into technologies different from the ones she is currently working on, such as Dataflow for real-time data stream management, as well as specialize in topics related to machine learning and neural networks.
From a more people-oriented perspective, she would like to continue collaborating in mentoring processes currently present at Devoteam. She would like to help and support new additions to the Devoteam G Cloud data team and contribute to diversity and inclusion, providing her perspective as someone who comes from outside the engineering world but is already considered an integral part of the IT community.
In conclusion, Wendolin Damian is an inspiring leader in the IT field who advocates for diversity, empowerment, and collaboration in the industry. Her journey and advice offer valuable insights for women who wish to venture into the world of IT and face the challenges that may arise on the path to professional success.
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