Lucy McCague, Senior Marketing and Communications Consultant at Allstate, shares her insights on building a fulfilling career in the tech industry.
From the value of mentorship and networking to navigating a non-traditional path into tech, she offers practical guidance for anyone exploring a role in this dynamic and evolving sector.
Speaking to Sync NI, Lucy discusses her transition into tech from a non-STEM background, the impact of mentorship, and why the industry presents exciting opportunities for women considering a career change or returning 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?
As someone who doesn’t come from a traditional tech background, I’ll admit I had a pretty narrow view of what working in tech might look like. I never imagined myself working for an organisation that’s truly leading the way in innovation and digital transformation. But here I am and I’m constantly in awe of the talent Allstate nurtures and the groundbreaking work being delivered from our European Digital Centre of Excellence.
What would you consider to be the most enjoyable and rewarding aspects of your job?
For me, it’s the variety. I’m lucky to be in a role that allows me to flex both strategic and creative muscles combining high-level marketing and communications planning with hands-on delivery. With Allstate’s strong investment in culture and employee experience, I get to work across everything from recruitment marketing and internal comms to event management and engagement. No two days are ever the same.
In terms of career development, how important is it to build a professional network and attend industry events?
It’s absolutely essential. At Allstate, we’re really encouraged and supported to build our networks internally and externally. Through a recent leadership programme, I was reminded just how important visibility is when it comes to career growth. And networking (although I’d love us to find a better word for it!) plays a big part in that. Done right, it’s not about schmoozing, it’s about building genuine relationships and learning from others.
READ MORE: Tech Trailblazer: Susan Stewart, Digital Product Manager, Allstate
How much impact can a mentor have on your personal development?
Huge impact, whether you’re the mentor or the mentee. Mentorship creates a valuable cycle of learning and support. No matter your level or experience, there’s always room to grow and perspectives to gain. I’vebenefitted from both sides of the equation, and I’m especially proud of the internal mentoring programme at Allstate that supports the development of women in tech backed by a brilliant group of male allies too.
What guidance would you offer to any young person on why they should consider a career in technology?
If I had the chance to go back and retrain, tech would be my first choice. I’ve seen first-hand the incredible impact that technology has on real people’s lives. It’s a fast-paced, creative, and deeply rewarding field and you don’t have to be an engineer to be part of it.
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?
Flip the script. I’m surrounded by amazing women in tech who are blazing trails every day. Yes, there’s still work to be done to balance the gender scales, but we limit ourselves if we see that as a barrier. There’s so much space for women in tech bring your talent, your voice, and your perspective. We need it.
For those who may not come from a STEM background, what other career opportunities exist within the tech sector beyond software engineering?
I’m living proof that there’s a place for non-STEM folks in tech. I studied Marketing and Psychology, followed by a post-grad in Communications and those skills are hugely valued. Tech companies need expertise in marketing, communications, legal, HR, finance, operations and so much more. At Allstate, we have a broad range of opportunities across all these areas. If there’s a tech company whose culture you admire, follow their journey. Upskilling and reskilling options are plentiful and the door is wide open.
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