Priyanka Lingegowda is the Principal Software Engineer at Liberty IT.
Here, Priyanka sits down with Sync NI to take part in the Tech Trailblazer challenge, discussing her pathway into a career in tech, what a day in her life looks like, and why Liberty IT is a great company to foster growth and develop talent.
Have you always wanted to have a career in tech and can you tell us about your pathway into Liberty IT?
Yes, I have always had a keen interest in pursuing a career in tech and was fortunate to be surrounded by several first-generation successful IT engineers in my family, which sparked my curiosity and passion for technology. I pursued a degree in Computer Science Engineering, where I gained a solid foundation in various technical skills and concepts before working in India as a software developer, where I had the opportunity to apply my knowledge and develop my expertise in software development.
In 2009, I moved to Northern Ireland and had heard a great deal about Liberty IT and its outstanding reputation in the industry. The company is known for its innovative projects and a supportive work culture that emphasises teamwork and employee wellbeing. When a position became available, I applied and was thrilled to secure the job.
This journey has been both exciting and fulfilling, and I am proud to be part of a company that aligns with my values and aspirations in the tech industry.
How important is Liberty IT’s ‘Women in Tech’ initiative in helping women to progress and successfully develop their careers within the organisation?
The Liberty IT Women in Tech (WIT) group has made remarkable strides in promoting diversity and supporting women's career development within the organisation by organising various networking and learning events. The WIT Employee Resource Group (ERG) has facilitated presentation masterclasses aimed at empowering female employees to become more prominent speakers. These sessions have equipped participants with techniques and insights to enhance their communication skills and boost their confidence in public speaking. As a result, we have achieved a significant milestone in increasing female speaker representation at Liberty IT, both in internal events and external conferences, showcasing the expertise of numerous female employees.
The group is also dedicated to supporting maternity returnees and has implemented a mentoring circle program that creates a peer network for women in Liberty IT. This initiative allows them to engage with and learn from leaders and peers, enabling them to shape their careers and professional development while fostering a culture of collaboration, diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Being recognised as one of the UK's Best Workplaces for Women by Great Place to Work highlights the WIT ERG's unwavering commitment to creating a positive and inclusive environment for women in tech.
How important have mentors and role models been in helping you optimise your career to date?
Mentors and role models have been crucial in optimising my career by providing essential guidance and support, helping me navigate the complexities of the tech industry. Initially, I did not think about having a mentor, but now that I have this support, I cansee a significant difference in my career progression. Their encouragement has helped reduce my imposter syndrome and build my confidence, inspiring me to keep pursuing my goals.
I have been equally supported by both male and female technical role models and mentors, who have opened valuable networking opportunities, connecting me with industry professionals and resources that have enriched my career.Through their insights, I’ve developed critical skills, making their influence invaluable in my professional journey.
What advice would you give to other women who might not feel they have the necessary qualifications or transferrable skills to work in tech?
Many individuals in tech come from diverse backgrounds and do not always have traditional qualifications, so it’s essential to embrace your unique experiences and skills. Building confidence in your potential is the first step toward success.
Engage with communities that support women in tech through local meetups,online forums, and social media to gain encouragement, mentorship, and valuable industry insights.
Seek out mentors who can provide guidance and share their experiences to help you navigate challenges effectively.
Actively participating in industryevents and workshops can enhance your career prospects by connecting you with professionals who can offer valuable advice and job leads.
Remember, the tech industry offers diverse and high-demand career paths spanning roles in development, design, project management, data analysis, and more. With persistence, self-belief, continuous learning, and the ability to leverage your unique skills, you can thrive in the tech industry.
What have you learnt on your career journey to date that you would share with younger girls on why they should consider a career in tech?
One of the most valuable lessons I've learned on my career journey is the importance of maintaining a continuous learning mindset. Embrace newopportunities and don’t let fear hold you back—every challenge is a chance to grow. Alongside this, building a strong networkand advocating for yourself is essential. Don't shy away from showcasing your skills and experiences.
The techindustry is rapidly growing and providesopportunities for innovation, creativity, and meaningful impact. A career in tech is not only a path to a lucrative future but also an opportunity to make an impact and empower yourself and others.
With a high demand for diverse perspectives, a tech career allows women to shape the future and offers flexible work environments and competitivesalaries. Encouraging girls in tech also creates role models for future generations, inspiring the next wave of female innovators and promoting a more equitable industry. I encourage every girland young woman to explore this exciting field!
Visit https://syncni.com/company/LibertyIT to find out more about Liberty IT including open job opportunities, Day in the Life features and news articles.
Subscribe to the Sync NI newsletter for all the latest technology news, jobs and upcoming events in Northern Ireland.
Visit Sync NI online for the latest technology news in Northern Ireland.
