Next generation of tech

Kimberly Valenny’s motivation to study IT at uni came from looking around her classroom in high school. “In a class of 16 IT students, I was the only female,” she explains. “That made me even more determined to get it done and do it right!”

That led Kimberly to study a double degree in Information Technology and Creative Industries, with majors in Computer Science and Interaction Design at QUT.

Still passionate about equality in tech, Kimberly was the president of the Women in Technology (WIT) student club, which welcomes anyone with a common aim to unite, inspire and empower women studying and pursuing all sorts of tech fields.

During this time, WIT hosted a ‘Women in STEM Industry Night’. The event provided students with insights into the importance of gender diversity in STEM as well as the significant roles women play in the industry. “My favourite part was seeing all the connections made between students and companies from the industry,” Kimberly says.

It was a full-circle experience for her too. Two years prior, at the same event, Kimberly connected with Deloitte representatives and scored herself an internship in their digital team, and a graduate position.

During her uni days, Kimberly also worked at Code Camp, teaching primary school students how to create their own games using drag-and-drop coding. “If students can understand the programming logic and design considerations behind technology while in primary school, then the future is in great hands,” she says.

When it comes to tackling hurdles for women in tech, Kimberly believes it’s important to find your STEM tribe. “When you surround yourself with people who will support you and have been in your shoes before, you gain a feeling of confidence you wouldn’t have found anywhere else.”

Kimberly’s study and career pathway

• Bachelor of Information Technology / Creative Industries, QUT
• Area Coordinator and Head Teacher, Code Camp
• Undergraduate Intern, Deloitte Digital
• President of Women in Technology, QUT
• Tutor, Girls Programming Network
• Faculty Student Ambassador and Sessional and Academic, QUT
• Graduate Front End Developer, Deloitte Digital

Article first published by Careers with STEM.