Intelligent Data Centres Issue 63 | Page 8

I HAVE DISCOVERED THAT MY UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE AND COMMUNICATION SKILLS HAVE ENABLED ME TO FOSTER RELATIONSHIPS AND FACILITATE COLLABORATION ACROSS VARIOUS DEPARTMENTS . various departments . My attention to detail and commitment to safety have earned me the respect of my peers .
“ TO YOUNG
FEMALES : EMBRACE THE DYNAMIC WORLD OF DATA CENTRES , WHERE EVERY DAY OFFERS EXCITEMENT , OPPORTUNITY AND THE CHANCE TO SHAPE THE FUTURE OF TECHNOLOGY . supervisor to either provide him with complete PPE or have security walk him off site .
H O T T O P I C
I often find myself the only woman amidst a sea of men in overalls and work boots . I initially felt a sense of intimidation and the pressure to prove myself to my male colleagues .
I had to work diligently to earn their respect and demonstrate my capabilities and expertise . Over time , I established my presence and became recognised as a competent and valuable team member .
One of the primary obstacles I face is the struggle to have my voice heard and be taken seriously . Frequently , my ideas and suggestions are disregarded or dismissed solely based on gender . There was a time when a contractor mixing cement refused to wear a mask and gloves . When I asked why , he ignored me , informing me that he has a wife at home who doesn ’ t question him , so who was I to do so . After I asked what he meant , I reached out to his

I HAVE DISCOVERED THAT MY UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE AND COMMUNICATION SKILLS HAVE ENABLED ME TO FOSTER RELATIONSHIPS AND FACILITATE COLLABORATION ACROSS VARIOUS DEPARTMENTS . various departments . My attention to detail and commitment to safety have earned me the respect of my peers .
While the road has not always been easy , being a woman in a maledominated field has allowed me to cultivate resilience , determination and self-advocacy . I have embraced my strengths and utilised them to my advantage , serving as a role model for other women in the industry .
Dr Umaima Haider , Lecturer in Computer Science & Digital Technologies , University of East London , tells us why young females should choose to take up a career in data centres .
Dr Umaima Haider , Lecturer in Computer Science & Digital Technologies , University of East London
Unlike traditional STEM fields , data centres offer a diverse array of roles spanning IT , engineering , project management , finance and beyond . The beauty ? You don ’ t necessarily need a STEM degree to thrive . Women with varied backgrounds can find their niche and make meaningful impact .
Imagine a career where each day brings new challenges and opportunities for growth , all under one roof . Flexibility isn ’ t

“ TO YOUNG

FEMALES : EMBRACE THE DYNAMIC WORLD OF DATA CENTRES , WHERE EVERY DAY OFFERS EXCITEMENT , OPPORTUNITY AND THE CHANCE TO SHAPE THE FUTURE OF TECHNOLOGY . supervisor to either provide him with complete PPE or have security walk him off site .
Throughout these challenges , I have learned to assert myself and advocate for my contributions without hesitation .
I have discovered that my unique perspective and communication skills have enabled me to foster relationships and facilitate collaboration across
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