With two decades of experience in the tech industry, Preeya Shyam has evolved from a software developer to a dynamic Scrum Master at Aflac Northern Ireland. Armed with an Engineering degree in Electronics and Communication Engineering from Anna University, India, she brings a wealth of expertise in Agile, Scaled Agile, Waterfall, and hybrid project environments. Preeya is passionate about helping teams work smarter, fostering a culture of trust, and embedding continuous improvement at every step.
Preeya shares her journey into technology with Sync NI, highlighting the transformative power of mentorship and networking, and why the tech sector is an exciting and inclusive space for people from all backgrounds
Have you always had an interest in technology and was there a specific person or source of inspiration that led you into your current career path?
I’ve always been drawn to how things work and how they can work better, which naturally led me into tech. I started out as a developer, but quickly realized I loved making the whole machine run smoothly and found my niche in project and delivery management.There wasn’t one single source of inspiration; just a natural shift as I leaned into what I was good at: bringing people together to deliver value.
What would you consider to be the most enjoyable and rewarding aspects of your job?
Seeing teams transform. I love coaching them through messy moments, helping them grow from task-focused to value-driven. It’s extremely rewarding to witness teams shift from chaos to clarity. And I’m constantly growing too, especially in people skills like listening, coaching, and creating space for trust.
In terms of career development, how important is it to build a professional network and attend industry events?
It’s massively important. Your day-to-day role is only one part of your growth. Some of my biggest lightbulb moments came from chats outside of work. Your network challenges your thinking, expands your perspective, and opens doors you didn’t even know existed.
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How much impact can a mentor have on your personal development?
A huge one.A great mentor won’t just advise you - they’ll stretch your perspective and help you break patterns you might not see yourself. They can be the catalyst for real transformation.It’s not always about giving you the answers; it’s about helping you see things differently, asking the right questions, and sometimes giving you the nudge you didn’t know you needed. I’ve had mentors who’ve helped me step out of my comfort zone and own my voice. That kind of support is invaluable, especially during moments of transition or growth.
What guidance would you offer to any young person on why they should consider a career in technology?
Tech is full of possibilities. It’s fast-moving, constantly evolving, and welcomes people who love solving problems. You don’t have to have it all figured out. Just bring curiosity and an open mind. Technology touches every part of life now, which means there are endless opportunities to work on things that matter. Whether you’re creative, analytical, or a mix of both, there’s a place for you in tech. It’s a career where you can constantly reinvent yourself.
What advice would you give to women considering a career change or who are returning to work who might be daunted at the prospect of working in what can be perceived as a male dominated industry?
Don’t wait to feel “ready” & don’t wait to “fit the mold”. You probably already have more transferable skills than you realize.Your fresh perspective is your edge. Own your perspective; it’s your superpower. Challenge stale processes, create a culture of trust, and build the kind of team you’d want to be part of. The industry needs your voice.
For those who may not come from a STEM background, what othercareer opportunities exist within the tech sector beyond software engineering?
The tech industry is far more diverse than many people realize. Beyond coding, there are roles in agile delivery (such as mine), product management, UX/UI, data analysis, technical writing, marketing, and more. There’s something for everybody. I’ve worked with amazing people from all kinds of backgrounds like teachers, marketers, designers, who’ve brought fresh insights into the tech world. The key is a willingness to learn and adapt. If you’re a problem solver or a creative thinker, there’s a role for you here.
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