Gemma Weir is the Social Value and Engagement Officer at CGI.
Here, Gemma Weir sits down with Sync NI to talk about the Tech Trailblazer challenge, sharing her journey into a tech career, what her daily work looks like, and why CGI is a brilliant place to grow and build your skills.
Have you always had an interest in technology, and was there a specific person or particular event that led you into your current role?
As a mature student, I fell down the rabbit hole of research. Although my degrees are in the discipline of crime and Justice, it was during the early stages of preparing for my PhD I discovered how central technology had become to analysis.
What would you consider to be the most enjoyable and rewarding aspects of your job?
I love my role at CGI, where I work as aSocial Value and Engagement Officer, delivering the social value programme, as part of the Northern Ireland Courts and Tribunals Service (NICTS) business transformation business programme,Themis. This new role combines my skills in tech with my knowledge and expertise within the criminal justice system. The most rewarding aspect of my job is supporting individualson their rehabilitation journey, guiding them through their learning to build new IT skills that can present real opportunities for employment and a fresh start
In terms of career development, how important is it to build a professional network and attend industry events?
Networking and events are an invaluable aspect to my career. The connections and links I have made with other professionals, from a variety of backgrounds, have created a support system with the feeling of having a wider team to collaborate with. If I don’t know the answer… I know someone who does.
READ MORE: Tech Trailblazer: Derbhile Kennedy, NI Delivery Director, CGI
How much impact can a mentor have on your personal development?
A good mentor can help propel your confidence and your career. My mentor guided me through the process of joining a large company, gave me a platform to showcase my current skills and has supported and encouraged me to continue building my skillset.
What guidance would you offer to any young person on why they should consider a career in technology?
Technology is a fast-moving, exciting industry. The world is continually becoming more technologically advanced, and to be working on the cutting-edge of new tech, ideas and innovation at CGI is really exciting.
What advice would you give to women considering a career change or return to work but are daunted by the prospect of working in what can be perceived as a male-dominated industry?
I never thought that I would find myself here – I went from a technophobe, unwilling to update my iPhone, to a woman passionate about learning and helping others to discover what this industry has to offer. I was pushed into tech out of necessity, but I’m so glad I’m here. Change can be uncomfortable, but this is an inclusive and supportive industry where you can focus on your particular area of interest, grow your confidence and flourish.
For those who may not come from a STEM background, what other career opportunities exist within the tech sector beyond software engineering?
My background isn’t STEM – it’s rooted in criminal justice, but technologyis woven into every industry and every part of our daily lives. My social value role, amalgamating technology with criminal justice in a way that genuinely creates positive change, allows me to keep learning, and creates a space where my existing skills are recognisedand put into action. I feel I have purpose and impact in what I do here at CGI.
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