Women power in IT: A conversation with Sarah about her career path

On International Women's Day 2025, our colleague Sarah talks about what the motto “For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.” means to her personally. She talks about her path to team leadership, the special challenges and opportunities in the IT industry and her commitment to a working environment in which women can freely develop their potential.

Sarah: For me, it was a very natural step in my development. My career began with an apprenticeship, followed by a few years in customer support. I then switched to consulting, and when the opportunity to become a team leader came up, I didn't have to think twice - I said 'yes' straight away. What I particularly appreciate about my current role is that I get to work closely with my colleagues, support them in their development and help them with challenges.

Sarah: For me, it was a natural step in my development. My professional career began with an apprenticeship, followed by a few years in customer support. After that, I switched to consulting, and when the opportunity to become a team leader arose, I didn't have to think twice – I said ‘yes’ immediately. What I particularly appreciate about my current role is that I work closely with my colleagues, support them in their development and help them to overcome challenges.

Sarah: The only ‘challenge’ I have perceived is that as a woman, you sometimes find yourself alone without any other ‘girl power’. However, it's not quite that bad in my everyday life, because I have very nice colleagues indeed and customers as well. I am also aware that other women have to overcome greater challenges.

Sarah: My team knows that they can rely on me with any concerns, whether organisational or technical. Of course, it's an advantage that my Atlassian expertise often allows me to offer competent solutions directly. This expertise also helps me to exchange ideas with my team on an equal footing and in a way that makes sense in terms of content. I think it's important not only to be a support in organisational matters, but to provide professional input as well.

Sarah: My team knows that they can rely on me with any concerns, whether organisational or technical. Of course, it's an advantage that my Atlassian expertise often allows me to offer competent solutions directly. This expertise also helps me to exchange ideas with my team on an equal footing and in a way that makes sense in terms of content. I think it's important not only to be a support in organisational matters, but to provide professional input as well.

Sarah: My uncle probably subconsciously inspired me to get into IT at a young age. I was allowed to spend a day with him at work on 'Girls' Day' - that left an impression. But even today, I'm always inspired by my colleagues, whether it's through their ingenious approaches or exciting food for thought.
My advice to other women: Have the courage to get into IT if you are fascinated by technology or processes! The IT world is so much more than just 'coding' - it offers countless exciting opportunities.

Where do you see yourself in the next few years - professionally and personally? 

Sarah: To be honest, I don't have a fixed plan for the future - and that's completely fine with me, because I'm happy where I am at the moment. As long as I don't get bored and I keep finding new, exciting challenges, I feel I'm in the right place both professionally and personally.