Trailblazing in Tech – Tamara's Journey and Insights at BE-terna

Could you introduce yourself and describe your role in our company?

Hi, I am Tamara and I have been working for BE-terna for almost a whole decade now. I have been an engineer throughout as I started studying Mathematics, moving into the IT industry right after graduation, returning to academic life as an assistant after a few years, before finally settling in the IT industry for good. In my personal life I am a family person, with a husband, two almost adult sons and a few creative hobbies.

At BE-terna (formerly Adacta), I started as a software architect, but this role was always combined with consulting as I mostly worked on implementation projects. After a few years I took on additional roles, such as a product owner, and a team lead of an implementation team. Currently, I have the honor to be the team lead of the Adriatic product team.

Tell us about your career path and what sparked your interest in a career in the IT industry.

I started out as a systems analyst, but this role was always a combination of being a software consultant, IT technician, developer and tester all in one. I could very easily switch from one role to another if there was no one else available. After a couple of years, I had the chance to return to university as an assistant, where I discovered that sharing knowledge and gaining new knowledge along the way is something that really motivates me. However, I could not stay away from the IT industry. First, by doing IT projects in parallel while still lecturing at university, and then eventually returning to the IT industry permanently.

As said, I am an engineer and systems architect at heart. Computers, information technology, patterns and process optimization have always fascinated me, and this area provides enough challenges for creative work, which is my main motivation. I like walking the path from an idea to a solution, you always learn a lot and never know for sure what you will discover.

Is there a project that has meant a lot to you personally or professionally? What made it special?

Throughout my professional journey, almost every project has held some significance. Each one contributed to my growth, taught me valuable lessons, and shaped my skills. While some fade from memory, their impact remains, and collectively, they form the mosaic of my career.

But beyond the code, deadlines, and milestones, it’s the people who remain etched in my memory. These colleagues, my companions in the trenches, have made the difference. They have supported me during stressful moments, injected humor into our shared challenges, and answered my calls for help. Their boldness and unwavering trust has kept me going.

I still recall my first project, when I was a new player in the field and under tons of stress and had no experience. Then came the latest endeavors, where I not only played my part but also led the project and the team. These milestones were special because of the people who stood beside me, creating a professional and personal bond that endures.

In this intricate dance of projects and people, I find purpose, a reminder that success isn’t solitary. It’s woven from shared experiences, laughter, and resilience. And so, my career thrives, not just in code commitment, but in the friendships forged along the way. This is what makes it special.

What challenges do women face in the IT industry, according to your experience?

Regrettably, women in the IT industry still encounter challenges. Often, we must work harder to gain recognition as IT experts, facing skepticism about our proposed solutions and sometimes seeking validation from male colleagues. Fortunately, my career has seen only a few such instances.

What tips would you give to women who want to work in the IT industry?

Be yourself, trust in yourself and others, build on knowledge, fair play and open communication.

How does BE-terna support women in the IT industry, in your opinion? Are there aspects that you find particularly positive or encouraging?

BE-terna’s commitment to supporting women in IT is commendable. I particularly appreciate this ‘Women in IT’ interview series, which amplifies the stories of women in our field. Equally crucial is the ongoing conversation about challenges faced by women.

While it does not need to dominate every discussion, acknowledging and valuing the contributions of women is essential for fostering an inclusive workplace.