International Women's Day, the perfect moment to put our colleague Ans in the spotlight! She started at Grabowsky over 30 years ago and she is the example of a female IT pioneer!
Ans, when and how did you enter the world of IT and Grabowsky?
In the late 1980s, after finishing my studies in physical geography, I found myself amidst a challenging job market landscape. As the computer revolution loomed on the horizon, I embraced the opportunity to transition into the world of IT as part of a group of academics.Standing out as the sole woman among 13 men in the technical IT retraining cohort, I embarked on a journey that would shape my path in the industry.
While applying for jobs, I noticed that men with lower grades were being offered suitable positions, while I was not given the same opportunities. I was reluctantly offered a position on the help desk, but that was not the path I wanted to take.
I personally knew the owner of Grabowsky, which is how I found my way into the company. He was willing to take a chance on having a woman on board. In those initial years, we were just a team of three. As one of the three, you are more likely to be treated equally,
However, we (me and Monique, who joined Grabowsky as the next woman a few years later and also still works there) did not find this bothersome at the time; we were 'one of the guys'. But if you compare it with current norms and values, it is important that this is now changing. Within Grabowsky, I personally never experienced discrimination or discomfort. However, there were instances with customers where I really had to prove myself.
How exceptional was your experience as a woman? What was that like for you?
I was always the only woman or one of the very few in the group, whether during my academic years or later in my career at Grabowsky. It presented challenges but also provided me with the opportunity to make a significant impact in an industry predominantly dominated by men.
In my early years, the push for more women in the workforce was seen as part of women's emancipation within the realm of feminism. Nowadays, this is termed as inclusivity; a more friendly term, especially to men. However, unfortunately, women in the IT sector are still a rarity, particularly in the Netherlands.
What do women bring to the table?
Women are essential. By adding a group of women to any environment, the atmosphere undergoes a transformation. This shift not only changes the approach to problem-solving but also highlights the multitude of ways to address a particular issue. It becomes evident that a variety of perspectives fosters creativity and drives innovative solutions.
It's not just about inclusivity, but about recognizing the invaluable contribution women bring to teams. Together, we can achieve so much more.
In the Netherlands in particular, women are perceived as 'lesser' in many professions. Throughout my career, even during my studies, I have been acutely aware of the distinct differences between men and women. We operate differently; our brains function uniquely, and we approach problems in our own way. However, despite these differences, we are equivalent. And women need equity to reach equality.
What developments have you observed in recent years regarding inclusivity?
Although male-dominated environments still exist, progress has undeniably been made. In the past, I sometimes felt discriminated against and had to prove myself twice as hard as a woman. There were instances when clients would automatically turn to my younger, male colleague when I was present. Their surprise was evident when I took over the conversation. Despite these challenges, within Grabowsky, I have always felt valued and appreciated.
And thanks to the way Grabowsky has developed over time, I have been constantly exposed to new technologies and products, which keeps my work here engaging and exciting.
The government has been making efforts for years to attract women to technical professions. When looking at the statistics of women in the IT sector, it's clear that we are lagging behind in the Netherlands. There is still a political party that does not allow women in leadership positions. Additionally, the number of women working part-time is (too) high, which I believe is due to the lack of proper childcare facilities. This remains a significant concern for working women; the care and support for their children.
Slowly but surely, the acceptance of men working part-time is on the rise. In the past, this had consequences for their careers; working part-time meant not being considered for a management position. Fortunately, this mindset is gradually shifting for the better.
Do you have any advice for women who are at the beginning of their careers?
Do not be fooled; you are different from a man, and that is a strength. Maybe your way is even better. But the most important aspect is to treat boys and girls equally from a very young age and provide them with the same opportunities. This breaks old patterns and leads to a cultural shift. Men still often start their jobs at a higher level in the same scale and receive more salary increases. I would like to advise young women to pay close attention to this.
Ans, what does it look like in 30 years' time?
There is a movement underway, but it must also be practically feasible. There needs to be greater awareness and facilities, such as quality childcare, that enable women to develop limitlessly. It's not just about the IT sector, but about a broader cultural shift where men and women are given equal opportunities. And that must start from birth.
