LIU008: Breaking Barriers: Thriving as a Woman in Tech

In a conversation with Kevin and Alexis, Melissa Brooks, a Senior Cloud Engineer at Aritzia, shares her inspiring journey from a “terrible waitress” to a successful career in technology. Her story highlights the challenges faced by women in the tech industry and the strategies she employed to overcome them.

Melissa began her career in a completely unrelated field, working as a waitress. She admitted to being “terrible” at the job, often struggling to manage her tasks and interact with customers. However, this experience served as a catalyst for change. She realized that her inability to excel in this role was not a reflection of her capabilities but rather a mismatch between her skills and her chosen path.

Determined to find a career that aligned with her interests and talents, Melissa decided to pursue a diploma in network security. This decision was not made lightly; she recognized the need to upskill and rebuild her foundation in technology. By enrolling in a diploma program, she was able to gain the necessary knowledge and skills to transition into the tech industry.

One of the key strategies Melissa employed was a “reverse engineered” approach to goal setting. Instead of starting with vague aspirations, she broke down her career goals into smaller, achievable milestones. She analyzed the skills and qualifications required for her desired career path and worked backward to identify the steps needed to reach her objectives. This method allowed her to focus on acquiring the necessary skills and experience systematically.

Melissa’s journey in the tech industry was not without its challenges. As a woman in a male-dominated field, she faced numerous obstacles, including stereotypes and biases. However, she persevered, drawing inspiration from other women who had succeeded in the industry. She joined networking groups, attended conferences, and engaged with her peers to build a supportive community.

Her strategic approach to goal setting and determination to overcome obstacles paid off. Melissa landed her first job in the tech industry, where she quickly gained recognition for her skills and expertise. Her role as a Senior Cloud Engineer at Aritzia involves managing complex cloud infrastructure and ensuring the security of the company’s digital assets.

Melissa’s story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and strategic planning. By redefining her career trajectory and employing a reverse engineered approach to goal setting, she was able to thrive in a field that often poses significant barriers for women. Her journey highlights the importance of challenging assumptions, seeking out supportive communities, and relentlessly pursuing one’s goals.

As Melissa continues to excel in her career, her story inspires others, particularly women, to break free from traditional career paths and pursue their passions in technology. Her success demonstrates that with the right mindset and strategic planning, anyone can overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams.