Susan Stewart is a Digital Product Manager at Allstate, a US Fortune 100 insurance company, with over a decade of experience in the tech industry. She leads a team transforming claims communications by improving processes and using Gen AI in innovative ways, helping set a new standard in digital insurance.
Susan shares with Sync NI how she transitioned into tech from a non-STEM background, the value of mentorship and networking, and why the industry is full of opportunities for women looking to make a change or return to work.
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 have not always had an interest in a career in technology. In school I always preferred the more arts-type subjects and considered becoming an English teacher, and even an archaeologist but nothing really appealed to me, and definitely nota tech career! My inspiration was my husband who is a software engineer. From him sharing his experiences with me the realisationfinally dawned that the IT industry actually waswhere I wanted to be.
What would you consider to be the most enjoyable and rewarding aspects of your job?
I really enjoy the fast pace of my job and the fact that no two days are the same. Technology is ever evolving and there’s always something new to learn. Allstate has been recognized as a European Digital Centre of Excellence and I find it rewarding that the work my team does is directly linked to this through our technology practices and innovative use of Gen AI to solve problems and help customers.
In terms of career development, how important is it to build a professional network and attend industry events?
There is definitely a benefit to getting your face and name out there by both attending and participating in industry events. Chatting with people from different companies can give you a chance to share experiences and you may gain insight from discussing how they have approached / overcome similar challenges to your own. And if you’re ever looking for a new role, having contactsin other companies isn’ta bad thing!
How much impact can a mentor have on your personal development?
Having the support and guidance of a mentor is invaluable, at any stage of your career but especially as you are starting out. In my experience having someone to guide your learning and give advice really helps you to build the confidence and knowledge to grow within your role.
What guidance would you offer to any young person on why they should consider a career in technology?
The IT industry, especially in Belfast, is a great place to work. There is a lot of overseas investment and a lot of choice of companies to work for, from US Fortune 100 giants to tech startups, which also means there are great opportunities to grow and develop your career, and many different types of tech roles to consider.
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?
I am one of those women who made a career change. Instead of being daunted I saw this as an opportunity, as being different helps you to stand out from your peers.I would also recommend attending Women in Tech events as they have a great inclusive and supportive vibe, the majority of women there will have that same experience of working in a traditionally male-dominated industry, and they are a great place to build a professional network.
For those who may not come from a STEM background, what other career opportunities exist within the tech sector beyond software engineering?
I’m not from a STEM background (I have a degree in English Literature) but have had successful careers in both data & analytics and product management. There are training opportunities and entry level positions available in these and other areas of the tech sector that you don’t need a related degree for (which is how I accessed my first tech role), where youlearn on the job, and if you have the right attitude and willingness to learn it really doesn’t matter that you don’t have a STEM background.
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