DC Web Women Code(Her) Conference

Lean Into STEM

Technology is a passion of mine, but it wasn’t always.  At an early age I struggled with math and felt discouraged from pursuing a career in science, technology, engineering or medicine (STEM). I lacked the courage to challenge my anxiety until getting involved with professional tech organizations such as DC Web Women.

I didn’t have to be the best at math to pursue a career in STEM, I needed to be persistent. 

Familiarizing myself with tech meant being open to learning. More importantly, it meant removing some mental roadblocks, I placed on myself as a young girl, and it meant redefining my strengths. That’s why it was a no-brainer to volunteer at this year’s DC Web Women’s (DCWW) Code(Her) Conference.

User Experience Thinking

In a nutshell, the Code(Her) Conference  is an all-day event, offering women of all ages affordable technology classes and workshops.  While attending IIBA DC Meetups, I learned that business analysts often transition into UX. Mainly because they work on IT related projects that require them to develop wireframes, prototypes, and mock-ups. They also possess the ability to be “empathetic listeners”, which is a vital soft skill for eliciting requirements from stakeholders of different backgrounds.

I attended EndGame UX Director, Emily Ryan’s class Bringing UX to your Organization. Her presentation covered best practices for incorporating UX design into product planning. She also explained how technical writers can even leverage their skills creating user guides or training material for transitioning into UX. I found it refreshing to learn that the field is made up predominately of women. (That’s a major plus for me). To see Emily Ryan’s full DCWW Code(Her) presentation click here.

Defying Expectations

As I mentioned earlier, I’m finished with mental road blocks. I want my future filled with memories of me defying my own expectations. Growing as a consultant, improving my technical knowledge, and overcoming my anxiety. Honestly, there’s a chance I won’t accomplish every goal, but I can be satisfied knowing that I tried to.

DCWW Code(Her) Conference 2015

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  DCWW Code(Her) Conference 2015
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  Lecturer Emily Ryan, EndGame
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  DCWW Code(Her) Web Usability Workshop
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  Code(Her) After-Party 2015
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  DCWW Code(Her) 2014
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