Kathryn Harkin, Executive Director and Head of AI, FinTrU and Industry Chair, AI Collaboration Centre, speaks to Sync NI about her own 'non-linear' career pathway into technology; leveraging AI for innovation; and why more young girls should consider entering the thriving tech sector and continue to break barriers.
With a degree in Physics and Geology, a Masters in Petroleum Geology and a PhD in Geophysics and Seismology, and currently head of AI at FinTrU, a leading FinTech company via senior roles within the defence and insurance industries, to what extent would you say your career journey exemplifies or challenges the notion that careers within the tech sector are typically planned and linear?
My career journey into technology has been far from linear. With a strong interest in science from an early age, I pursued a BSc in Physics with Geology at Queens University, Belfast, followed by an MSc and a PhD in Geophysics at University College Dublin.
During my PhD, I developed programming skills in MATLAB and Fortran, which sparked my interest in software engineering. Facing limited opportunities for Geophysicists in Derry after I made the decision to move home, I transitioned into tech, starting with a SW Engineering role which involved working inreally interesting projects including an Air Traffic Control system.
Over the next 25 years, I broadened my skillset through various roles in Systems Engineering, Programme and Product Management, and eventually Data and Artificial Intelligence. Currently, I am the Head of Data and AI at FinTrU and serve as the Industry Chair for the Advisory Board of the Artificial Intelligence Collaboration Centre (AICC). I thrive on being at the forefront of technology and continuously learning new things, which helps keep work life interesting.
Given not all career paths are planned, can you identify any pivotal moments or people that led you towards your current role?
On reflection, my career progression has been driven by passions and interests rather than a clear plan. Eight years ago, I took a leap into AI from project management, inspired by my Geophysics PhD work involving data-driven approaches and deep learning techniques.
A pivotal moment was when my supportive boss at the time, John Healy, trusted me to lead an AI team at Allstate Northern Ireland, building capability from the ground up. This opportunity was crucial as AI skills became highly sought after.
When the role at FinTrU arose, I was drawn by its reputation and inspired by founder Darragh McCarthy's leadership. FinTrU’s CTO, Emma Pollock, took time to meet with me and emphasise the need for a Head of Data and AI prior to me applying. She presented the roles’ opportunities and challenges and outlined the interesting problems they were looking to solve, which solidified my decision to join.
As industry chair of the Artificial Intelligence Collaboration Centre (AICC) what are the major opportunities and key challenges that AI presents for the economy in NI?
As the Industry Chair of AICC, I see both exciting opportunities and significant challenges for AI in NI's economy.
We know that AI can drive productivity and innovation across sectors, which in turn leads to economic growth and high-quality job creation. Under David Crozier’s leadership, AICC is doing a fantastic job promoting AI adoption among SMEs, enhancing their competitiveness and efficiency.
However, challenges include ensuring our workforce has the necessary AI skills, developing robust AI infrastructure, and promoting ethical AI use, all of which are needed to bring products to market promptly. Addressing these challenges is crucial for Northern Ireland to lead in AI innovation. Continuing to partner across government, academia, and industry, will allow us to harness AI's potential to transform our economy andcompete globally.
If AI is the key driver for technological innovation, what key skills will be required to maximise the potential of this technology?
Leveraging AI for innovation requires more than data science skills. Strength in communication, product management, domain expertise, and data literacy remain vital. Furthermore, understanding and articulating business challenges, thinking creatively, and considering ethical implications are crucial for developing innovative and responsible AI solutions.
More recently, the emergence of Agentic AI and the implementation of GenAI solutions have the potential to empower both programmers and non-programmers to participate meaningfully in the field of AI.
Is it possible to have a successful career in AI from a non-technical background?
Yes, it is possible as long as you have the passion, willingness, and learning agility. Consider choosing computing or future of work modules if offered as part of your degree to keep your options open. The best product teams are made up of diverse members, each bringing unique perspectives and approaching problems from different angles, making significant contributions to AI.
Additionally, conversion courses, some funded by AICC, can provide the necessary skills and knowledge to transition into AI roles.
Why should young women consider a career in tech?
Young women should consider a career in tech because it offers opportunities for innovation, creativity, and impactful work, for example, AI for good initiatives.
The tech industry values diverse thinking, leading to more inclusive teams and solutions. Additionally, tech careers often provide flexible working and remote options, offering a work-life balance not always found in other fields. In my opinion, embracing a career in tech allows young women to break barriers, inspire others, and contribute to a rapidly evolving and meaningful industry.
Sync NI's Summer 2025 magazine celebrates women in tech across Ireland as we continue to encourage more women to enter the thriving sector and address the current gender imbalance.
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