#IWD2025
1. Implementing Mentorship and Sponsorship Programmes 2. Promoting Female Leadership 3. Providing Professional Development and Training 4. Enforcing Inclusive Hiring and Promotion Practices 5. Offering Flexible Work Arrangements 6. Establishing Women’s Networks and Support Groups 7. Advocating for Equal Pay and Transparency 8. Encouraging Early STEM Engagement Are there any blind spots that you think men in our industry are missing when it comes to female empowerment? In the pursuit of gender equality within the tech industry, certain challenges may be inadvertently overlooked by male colleagues, which are crucial for female empowerment: Communication Styles Men and women often exhibit distinct communication approaches. Men may prioritise directness and brevity, while women might emphasise inclusivity and collaboration. Misinterpreting these differences can lead to misunderstandings and undervaluing of contributions. Unconscious Bias Deep-seated stereotypes can influence perceptions of women’s capabilities, leading to unintended discrimination. For instance, assuming women are less committed to their careers due to family responsibilities can hinder their professional growth. Work-Life Balance Assumptions Men may not fully grasp the extent of the ‘double burden’ many women face, balancing professional duties with a disproportionate share of domestic responsibilities. This lack of understanding can lead to insufficient support for work- life balance initiatives. The pandemic has highlighted the importance of recognising these challenges, as personal lives became more visible, normalising the need for flexibility for all.
determination and innovation. I have also been privileged to learn Rincon Technology’s co-founders Mike Bartling and Jason Kelly, whose exemplary leadership has been a guiding beacon. Industry conferences and trade shows, notably those organised by the SCTE, ANGA COM, the GSMA, trade shows by Informa have provided invaluable platforms to connect with seasoned professionals. It was through the SCTE and GSMA that I encountered my initial mentors, whose guidance has been instrumental in my professional development. All of this has not only guided my path but also underscore the evolving landscape of the tech industry, where diversity and inclusion are increasingly recognised as drivers of innovation and success. What are the main challenges for women in the industry? In the dynamic landscape of the tech industry, women encounter several challenges that, while formidable, also present unique opportunities to drive innovation and showcase resilience. The underrepresentation of women in leadership and technical roles can deter aspiring female professionals. Balancing demanding careers with personal responsibilities remains a significant challenge, often due to inflexible work environments. Finally, despite equal qualifications, women often face pay disparities compared to their male counterparts, affecting job satisfaction and retention. What would improve opportunities and prospects for women looking for a career in this sector? In recent years, the tech industry has made notable strides toward enhancing gender diversity and inclusion, thanks to courageous women paving the way for others, male supporters and organisations like WICT, Women in STEM and the Society of Women Engineers, Girls Who Code etc. It’s essential to emphasise that promoting the best person for the job, regardless of gender, remains paramount to fostering a culture of excellence and fairness and minimising unconscious bias. Enhancing opportunities requires a comprehensive approach that addresses systemic barriers and fosters an inclusive culture, such as:
Sandie Brodier Global Sales/Purchasing & Partnerships Director Rincon Technology, Inc.
What attracted you to this industry and how did you get into the business? From an early age, I was captivated by the principles of justice and fairness, which naturally led me to pursue a legal education. As a law student I honed skills in critical analysis, strategic thinking, contract interpretation and negotiation. I realised my preference lay in collaboration rather than the adversarial nature of legal practice with its protracted litigation and rigid procedures. International business emerged as the ideal path, offering the chance to interact with diverse cultures, build meaningful relationships and drive economic development. This field provides the flexibility to innovate, negotiate and craft solutions. My journey began in advertising sales for Rincon Technology who needed a native French speaker. Sales and after sales service is about fostering international connections through relationships. Rincon is a unique space where business profitability aligns with environmental responsibility, providing a profound sense of purpose. In many ways, my entry into the telecom sector was serendipitous, akin to falling in love. What, if any, mentors helped you along the way? I owe a profound debt of gratitude to mentors who have illuminated my path. My mother instilled in me the values of
MARCH 2025 Volume 47 No.1
81
Made with FlippingBook - Online magazine maker