Diana Silva
Junior Software Engineer
Thursday, 9 January 2025
Could you please introduce yourself?
Hi! I’m Diana. I love exploring new things, learning as I go, and embracing whatever comes my way. When I’m not working, you’ll find me watching horror movies, gaming, or traveling to new spots whenever I can.
I’m always down for a chat—whether it’s about tech, life, or just fun random stuff!
Whats your background?
I’ve spent about 5-6 years working in healthcare management. It was a great experience, and I learned a lot, but after a while, I felt like I needed something new and exciting. I wanted to step out of my comfort zone and take on fresh challenges, so I decided to make the leap into tech.
Whats your current role?
Right now, I’m a Junior Software Engineer at West Northamptonshire Council. My role involves working on web forms, integrating with AWS, managing tickets, and of course, a lot of learning along the way.
It’s been a great experience so far, and I’m constantly picking up new skills and tackling interesting challenges!
Why have you decided to learn to code?
I decided to learn to code as a hobby and started with Harvard’s CS50 Intro to Computer Science course.
By week two, I was completely hooked! The way the course started with Scratch to teach the basics of coding logic, and then quickly dove into C and beyond, really clicked for me.
It was challenging but exciting, and I knew this was something I wanted to dive deeper into.
Do you think its important to learn to code?
I definitely think it's important to learn to code. It’s not just about writing lines of code, it’s about developing problem-solving skills and learning how to think logically and creatively.
In today’s world, tech touches almost every aspect of our lives, so understanding the basics of coding can help you better navigate and adapt to this digital age, even if you’re not pursuing a tech career!
Do you feel the tech industry is male dominated? How can we encourage more women into the industry?
Yes, the tech industry is still predominantly male, but it’s great to see more women making their mark as more join the field.
While there’s still work to be done, the momentum is growing. Tech isn’t reserved for a certain type of person—it’s for anyone with a drive for problem-solving and creativity.
By working together and fostering an inclusive environment, we can create a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive in tech, regardless of gender.
Did you struggle being a woman in the tech industry yourself?
I wouldn’t say I’ve encountered significant struggles, as I’m still fairly new to the sector, but there have definitely been times when I’ve had to navigate environments where I was in the minority.
That said, I’ve been fortunate to have supportive mentors, colleagues, and communities that have made a big difference. I believe it’s important to focus on creating environments where everyone feels heard and valued.
Whats the most rewarding and most challenging parts of your tech career so far?
The most rewarding part has been seeing my progress and growth, especially when I look back at where I started. Every new project, skill, or challenge feels like a milestone, and it's incredibly satisfying to revisit old projects and realize how much has changed.
The most challenging part has definitely been the steep learning curve, especially when I was first starting out. Tech moves quickly, and it can sometimes feel overwhelming trying to keep up with new tools, languages, and frameworks. But those challenges have kept me curious and eager to learn more.