International Women’s Day – Celebrating the women of S5GC!

This International Women’s Day at The Scotland 5G Centre, we are celebrating the women of our team and our achievements.

Championing women in all aspects of life is key however its even more important to celebrate women in technology – a STEM subject area which typically attracts more males than females for a number of reasons.

According to the ONS Employment by Industry survey in 2021, only 31% of UK tech jobs are held by women while only 5% of leadership roles in the technology sector are held by women (PWC).

Technology is ranked as the third faster sector for job growth in the UK and also the third top sector in terms of job creation for women in 2021 – let’s continue this trend and support, champion and celebrate women in technology. Meet the women of The Scotland 5G Centre!

Jackie Steven, Finance & Business Operations Manager

Jackie has experience working within the education and third sectors with her previous roles including working with people who faced social and economic barriers and upskilling people in employability and IT.

Get to know Jackie:

1. What’s the best thing about working at S5GC?

The team have all mostly been recruited within a few months of each other, so we all began this exciting journey together – having the same fresh focus and zest for what we are hoping to achieve.

2. What’s your favourite piece of technology?

My google portal which was a lifeline during COVID and beyond as it’s a great way to spend time with family and friends.

Sharon Neely, Business Engagement Manager – HALO Kilmarnock

Sharon started her career in the financial sector at Barclays, leading teams across Ayrshire and Dumfries. Over the last 3 years, she’s been involved in rebuilding thriving economies projects, engaging with businesses and the community to address social and economic challenges.

Get to know Sharon:

1. Why did you get into technology?

Digital Technology is at the forefront of our ever-evolving world and, for me, a career in tech gives me an opportunity to develop my own skillset and knowledge of what is available to help businesses grow, be more productive and sustainable.

2. What’s your favourite piece of technology?

It’s got to be my smart phone – my life is in my phone! I can manage my life on the go whether its banking, shopping, contactless payments or connecting with friends and family.

Kirsty Scott, Business Engagement Manager – Dundee

Kirsty bring a specialist range of knowledge from 14 years in Computer Games Development in Dundee with a background working in STEM skills as well as in-depth project management experience successfully delivering Tay Cities Deal pipeline projects.

Get to know Kirsty:

1. Why did you get into technology?

I’m an artistic person but also have a strong business pragmatism which means I like elegant solutions to problem solving and I really fit in with the culture. Tech industries often attract creative types and I really enjoy working with a wide range of talented people who are very passionate about what they do.

2. What’s the best thing about working at S5GC?

The Scotland 5G Centre characteristically embodies change and it’s exciting to be part of that. It’s a small but tight knit team and everyone communicates really effectively and brings great energy.

Esther Francisco Ballesteros, Marketing & Communications Manager

Esther has over 12 years’ experience in international marketing with a number of leading companies including s1homes, Heineken and Avon. During her career to-date, Esther has developed and implemented marketing and communications strategies, led offline and online marketing activities and managed B2B and B2C multichannel campaigns.

Get to know Esther:

1. Why did you get into technology?

The benefit of technology for rural areas and local communities in Scotland is endless and that’s something I can contribute to by working at the S5GC, by improving and helping to overcome the digital challenges that remote areas face.

2. What’s the best thing about working at S5GC?

People are what make a difference in an organization, and the team here is extraordinary. Opinions and ideas are valued and we’re a little family. The location of the office in the heart of Glasgow is a plus too.

Siobhan Divers, Marketing & Communications Officer

Siobhan has 8 years’ experience within the marketing and communication sector, graduating with a BA (Hons) in History and Journalism Studies. Always keen to learn something new, Siobhan’s skillset spans from event planning, radio broadcasting and magazine journalism to social media management and political reporting.

Get to know Siobhan:

1. Why did you get into technology?

I’m fascinated by trends in technology. As the industry is so fast-paced, everything is constantly evolving – from mobile devices and on-demand services to social media platforms.

2. What’s your favourite piece of technology?

I enjoy taking photos so upgrades in mobile technology and in-built cameras are something I appreciate as well as photo-sharing social media platforms like Instagram.

Nicola Graham, Marketing & Events Officer

Nicola has over 8 years of experience working within higher education, most recently working in the Marketing Team in the Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences at the University of Strathclyde. Nicola’s experience includes graphic design, customer relations and video editing.

Get to know Nicola:

1. Why did you get into technology?

The tech industry is fast-growing and ever-changing. Being part the tech industry, allows for movement and growth in my career and professional development. I find myself learning something new every day.

2. What’s your favourite piece of technology?

I love my smart TV – It’s a must in my household. It’s so easy to use apps like YouTube and operate it from your mobile. I also love my pet cam, to see what mischief my rabbit is getting up to. He loves to chew.

Sue Berry, Executive Assistant

Sue has over 15 years’ experience working for C Suite Executives in both the private and public sectors and Military Commanders in Jersey, London and Germany. Sue’s previous roles have included working with the British Forces to relocate 8,000 troops and their families back to the UK.

Get to know Sue:

1. What’s the best thing about working at S5GC?

The global pandemic has forced a step change in so many areas, seeing first-hand how enhanced digital connectivity can transform sectors such as healthcare, education, manufacturing, farming has been hugely positive and to know that this is helping people on a daily basis is really rewarding.

2. What’s your favourite piece of technology?

I love my Laptop – it allows me to work remotely, link into apps to run my house and keep in touch with family and friends via FaceTime.

Follow our social media channels (Twitter & LinkedIn) during this week to find out more about the women at the S5GC and sign up to our newsletter to be the first to know about our events, articles and job vacancies!