What do you love most about your profession? Why did you choose this career?
What I love most about my profession is the constant problem-solving and learning. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities to grow, which keeps the work exciting and fulfilling. I chose this career because I’m passionate about building skills that are in high demand and making a real impact through my work.
When did you realize you wanted to work in STEM or Skilled Trades?
When I started university, I wasn’t sure what path I wanted to take. But as I explored different courses, I found myself drawn to challenges that required problem-solving and creative thinking. Those experiences helped me realize that I wanted to pursue a career in a STEM-related field — a place where I could keep learning, innovating, and making a real impact.
Why do we need more women in STEM and Skilled Trades?
We need more women in STEM and skilled trades because diverse voices drive greater innovation and progress. Women bring unique perspectives, creativity, and empathy that strengthen teams and lead to better solutions for everyone. When more women step into these fields, we open the door to a future that's more inclusive, dynamic, and caring.
What does your typical workday involve? Can you work remotely? (indoors/outdoors, office/plant, travel time, teamwork/solo work)?
A typical workday involves collaborating with other developers to build great projects, communicating with colleagues to stay updated on company initiatives, attending meetings to discuss progress, and building apps. My independent work includes coding, staying up to date with current technologies, and coordinating with different teams to ensure everything runs smoothly. I balance both teamwork and individual tasks throughout the day.
Who is your role model? What is it about this person that inspires you?
My mother is my role model. She owns a barbershop in Malaysia and has been a constant source of inspiration in my life. She sacrificed so much to provide a better environment for our family, working tirelessly to support us. Even without much formal education, she built and successfully runs her own business. Her determination, resilience, and self-made success are what inspire me every day.
What do you do for fun? What are some of your hobbies/activities?
I am a huge believer in the importance of health, both physical and mental. I prioritize working out regularly, knowing that building strength and discipline prepares me for the challenges of daily life. I also find a lot of joy in dancing — belly dance and ballet allow me to stay connected to my body and soul through movement. Music is another source of happiness and inspiration for me, helping me recharge and stay grounded.
What advice would you give students who might be considering a career like yours? What advice would you have given your younger self?
Don’t be afraid to make mistakes — they’re an important part of learning and growing. It’s normal to find things challenging at first, but with time and persistence, everything will start to come together. Most importantly, enjoy the journey and have fun with it!