Women in Tech??Interview with Samantha Dugelay from Thales

Striving for equality in the tech sector is central to?#techUK’s?mission. Throughout March, coinciding with International Women’s Day (#IWD2023 ) on 8 March, we are exploring how we embrace equitable workplaces that support?#WomenInTech .??Although our campaign spotlights women in tech, we want to ensure that we are supporting allies in all shapes and forms, wherever they come from.

This article is part of a series of interviews where we give voice to these gender diversity allies to call out the bias, expose the barriers for women in tech and spotlight the importance of a diverse tech future through their own experience.

Meet our interviewee, Sam Dugelay , ?Head of General Sonar Studies at 泰雷兹 .

??How do you currently see equality in tech?

With 25 years in the technology and sonar industry, both in a national and international context, I can say that although equality has progressed in certain areas, we still have a way to go to truly have equality for women. During my time in the industry, I have seen and been subjected to many flavours of sexual discrimination both in the UK and abroad, but I am glad to say that I have witnessed refreshing and positive behaviours within Thales, which I joined in 2021.

When dealing with international partners, there are notable differences between countries and cultures which also need to be addressed. I don’t believe women get equal opportunities such as high profile promotions, consultation of organisational changes and recognition of expertise.

However, since working at 泰雷兹 , I have seen positive changes and they recently announced that they conducted a review of salaries across the organisation and found no concerning trends, which is certainly a good sign, and they are still increasing their efforts to have more female representation in senior positions.

??And how do you think we can achieve a more diverse future?

I am encouraged to see an open culture in the UK in discussing not only gender equality, but also around #LGBTQ +, #neurodiversity , #MentalHealth , work-life balance and more. Having a diverse workforce – in gender, nationality, belief and ways of thinking - will provide the safe haven for working women where everyone is unique. Of course, this requires the industry to recognise the immense value from diversity and the inimitable strengths that women can bring.

??What are the barriers, for woman, to enter your industry?

Barriers for women can be found at numerous levels. Right from the start, it is not “cool” to be smart at school. With a 14 year old daughter, I constantly battle to reinforce the advantage of her being able to grasp maths and encourage her to forget the people who say “girls can’t do maths”.

I also find interviews a real challenge when faced with a male panel. Am I judged for my technical brain, or is there unconscious bias about how I look, what I wear, my age, maternity leave, menopause, if I have children?

Once I am in the work place, how many times will I be overlooked for a promotion? Do I have to work twice as hard as men and if I speak up is it because I am too emotional?

The sonar industry can be intimidating for women as it is male dominated; our customers are also mainly male and there is still largely an expectation in the tech world that women will put their careers on hold to look after children.

All of this can foster a culture where women are not as confident to take risks.

??How is your company supporting diversity and equality?

I have been impressed by the effort that Thales is putting into raising awareness around women in the work place. There is readily available internal information, training and regular briefings regarding equality, diversity and inclusion, mental health, LGBTQ+ and much more. It has shown to be a company that keeps up with wider socio-economic trends and I was pleasantly surprised to find a whole HR section on the menopause.

#STEM is also an important part of Thales’ activities. Our apprentices and graduates are encouraged to volunteer for career events and talks at schools and universities to showcase the exciting work we do. As a company, they actively seek out diversity in the workforce as they believe this is the best way to achieve innovation and agility in our ways of working.

On my part, I try to set an example to younger women and my door is always open for advice and support. I have given motivational talks in the past and would hope that my enthusiasm and determination in the tech world inspires women to follow a tech path.

I do feel that I have female role models that I can look up to within Thales – maybe not right at the top, but I have seen progress and I will continue to champion this cause.

??What’s your no. 1 piece of advice for the future generations entering tech?

Stay true to yourself. Recognise what your strengths are and play to them. Be honest both in your achievements and failings; tech is rarely a one-person band, it is a team effort. If you deliver consistently on your commitments, then soon enough you will gain the respect you deserve.

Tech is hard, complex but exciting. When you enter the sonar tech domain in your twenties, you’re eager to impress. However, I believe that learning, experience and investing in yourself will support your long term career path. This way, you will reap the benefits later in your career and you will be fully armed to break the glass ceilings.

??In one word, what does it mean to be a woman in tech?

Inspirational.