In celebration of Women’s History Month, we’re spotlighting Liaison employees who identify as women whose contributions have been integral to our success.
Swati Verma, Liaison’s Senior Manager, Quality Assurance, recently talked about the values she learned as a child and the fact that “women are great managers and very committed workers.”
What drew you to the technology industry?
Swati Verma (SV): Growing up in a secluded northeastern part of India, which is rich in natural reserves, there were situations to solve day-to-day problems yourself. I found myself researching at a very young age how to light up a bulb using solar power or how water can generate electricity. That bent of mind propelled me to study math and science and later become the first woman engineer from my hometown. I wanted to serve in the technology industry because it provides unique solutions that bring efficiency into people’s lives. I felt I could join an organization where I could use my own personal motivation and studies to build innovative solutions for the world.
What’s one of the greatest challenges you’ve faced as a person who identifies as a woman in the workplace?
SV: I have been fortunate enough to find myself in places where women are given equal opportunity and respect. Personally, I feel women are great managers and they are very committed workers who can nurture people and processes with ease while doing a balancing act with growing technology.
What is the most impactful professional lesson you’ve learned since you began your career?
SV: The most important thing I learned since I began my career is that one can control two things: one’s work ethic and one’s attitude. It’s important to work on business goals and keep emotions aside to reach effective solutions. I also learned that any work can be accomplished only with greater teamwork and collaboration.
Where do you see yourself professionally in 10 years?
SV: I would see myself as an accomplished leader in software engineering practices leading a business unit from Dev, QA, IT, DevOps.
When you’re faced with a tough professional challenge, who/what/where do you look for guidance?
SV: When I am faced with a tough professional challenge, I keep it to myself, think about it and understand where I need to take actions. After that, I rely on seeking advice at home or from a friend who is working in a similar domain.
What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?
SV: I would say, don’t be shy and be emotionally strong.
What barriers have you experienced or observed for women in higher education?
SV: While growing up in India, I have seen that many women are not supported by the family and society to pursue their dreams of getting higher education. There are certain rules set by society and culture where one has to operate in a certain boundary. Women find themselves caught in these boundaries more. Back in the 90s, I observed that many women were forced to get married at a certain age and they had to discontinue their studies or any work they were doing. In countries where there is a huge socio-economic divide, it is easy to overlook the importance of women in education and the impact it can have for future generations.
What has been your biggest career and/or personal achievement?
SV: My biggest personal achievement is to be able to work while managing a home. Becoming the recipient of Liaison’s President Award was one of the biggest achievements in my career.
Who are your favorite women in history, women who inspire/empower you?
SV: I have been inspired by Margaret Thatcher and Indira Nooyi’s journey.
What are you most proud of?
SV: I am proud of the learnings and beliefs my parents inculcated in me since childhood. All the life lessons make me humble and ready to take on challenges every day with a smile.