Ljiljana’s career journey – from new challenges to success at BE-terna

Can you tell us a bit about your career path and how you came to your current role at BE-terna?

I reached a point in my career where I knew it was time for a change. After spending several years in my previous role, I started to seek out new challenges and opportunities for growth. When the opportunity to start a career in IT occurred, I saw it as a way to broaden my skill set, even though it was outside of my usual field. It was definitely a moment where I thought, “Why not?” I took a leap, driven by excitement and curiosity.
Fast forward to today, I’ve gained invaluable experience, built new skills, and faced challenges that have shaped me both personally and professionally. Now, I’m proud to be at BE-terna, working with a fantastic team. The decision to pivot to IT has been one of the most rewarding of my career.

What sparked your interest in the IT industry, and were there any particular experiences or people who encouraged you in your decision?

When I was offered a role in IT, it felt like a bit of a gamble – I wasn’t sure if it would match my strengths or interests. However, once I started, I realized how dynamic and exciting the industry is. Every day brings new challenges, from problem-solving for clients to keeping up with evolving technologies. What has kept me engaged are the incredible people I’ve worked with. I’ve had the support of colleagues who encouraged me to keep learning, and leaders who believed in my potential. Their support has been invaluable in my journey.

It’s the combination of technical curiosity and a supportive environment that has motivated me to continue growing in this field.

What specific challenges have you faced as a woman in the IT industry, and how did you overcome them?

Balancing my responsibilities as a mother and wife with a demanding job that required a lot of travel was one of my biggest challenges. In those early days, tools like Microsoft Teams weren’t available, so I had to be physically present for meetings and conferences, which made it difficult to maintain a work-life balance. My family was my greatest support during this time, and learning to set boundaries and prioritize was crucial in managing both my career and personal life.

What tips would you give to women who aspire to a career in IT to help them overcome potential obstacles?

My advice is simple: go for it! The IT industry may seem intimidating at first, but it’s full of opportunities for those willing to learn and adapt. Stay curious – there’s always something new to discover. Keep honing your skills, and most importantly, don’t hesitate to speak up for yourself. Confidence is key, and advocating for what you need and want in your career is essential. Lastly, surround yourself with supportive peers and mentors who believe in your potential.

Don’t be afraid to go for it! Stay curious, keep learning, trust your skills, and don’t hesitate to speak up for what you want!

How do you experience the company culture at BE-terna in terms of diversity and equal opportunities, especially for women in technical roles?

At BE-terna, the culture is truly supportive and inclusive. Diversity is valued across the board – whether it’s gender, age, or background. In our Croatian offices in Zagreb and Osijek, for example, I’ve seen an increasing number of women joining the company and thriving in technical roles. This reflects BE-terna’s commitment to fostering an environment where everyone has equal opportunities to grow and succeed. It’s clear that leadership encourages women to take on more technical roles and provides the support needed to develop their careers.