"Go for your goals!" – Celebrating women in STEM on Ada Lovelace Day

Ada Lovelace day, held yearly on the second Tuesday of October, highlights the contributions and experiences of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Sometimes called “the first computer programmer”, Ada Lovelace, the 19th century mathematician was a pioneer of computer science and continues to be an inspiration to many.

We at Vaisala believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion are important for creating a sustainable work environment where employees can thrive. By fostering diversity and equity in our own community, we can also do our part to promote these topics in society at large. To mark Ada Lovelace Day, we talked to some of the women who have built careers at Vaisala about their paths and advice for how we can reap the rewards of more diverse workplaces in the field of technology.

What inspired you to pursue a career in technology?

Mariko Mogi, Service Technician: It all started when I worked part time at a gas station when I was a high school student. I had no interest in cars at first, but gradually I became interested in learning more about them. After high school, I attended technical school and then worked as a car mechanic for more than five years before joining Vaisala.

Jeena Chirakattu, Senior Technical Product Manager: For me, one of the key motivators for pursuing a career in tech was my family. I grew up in an environment that valued education and technology. My dad is an engineer and had the opportunity to travel to many countries for work projects which added to my interest.

The rapid innovation in the technology sector and witnessing the far-reaching impacts keeps inspiring and amazing me every day. It touches every walk of life, including weather, measurements and intelligence as part of what we do here at Vaisala.  

Kate Liu, Inside Sales Manager: I pursued my career in technology based on my interest in science and engineering and the education I received in college. I deeply believe that good products and technologies can bring big value, and I'd like to contribute my part.

What’s a lesson you’ve learned along your career that you’d like to share with other women aspiring to enter the tech field?

Jeena Chirakattu: After two decades in tech, one overarching lesson I’ve learned is that the only constant in the tech industry is change. The most important asset in your toolkit is the ability to keep learning, be agile, and navigate the changes. Cultivate a growth mindset – just when you think you've mastered something, it's already time to move on to the next ability to adapt and embrace challenges. Don't be afraid to take the leap. Be curious and ask questions and invest in continuous learning and growth.

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“Don't be afraid to take the leap.” –Jeena Chirakattu, Senior Technical Product Manager at Vaisala

Mariko Mogi: I have never given up anything in my life because I am a woman. Of course, I have experienced some difficulties, but in my case, I have never felt gender to be a handicap because I have had a lot of help from many people. I am rather thinking of it as a strong point, so I want you to go for your goals without thinking about your gender. If you don't give up, I'm sure you'll be able to be active in the tech field.

What do you think we can do as a company and as an industry to support more women entering and thriving in technical roles?

Kate Liu: I think a lot of challenges are due to bias and self-doubt. As women, we are easily given priority in administrative work rather than technical work, so there are few opportunities to practice and gain experience. Whenever there's a chance to try, I encourage all of us to take the responsibility and do our best. As a Vaisala employee, I feel fortunate to be working here where DEI ideas are being actively conveyed throughout the company.

Moreover, I hope to see more concrete actions and programs in the future to make it easier to get help for women who want to work in technology and develop their skills. Last but not least, I hope everyone can realize their career aspirations.  

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“I hope to see more programs in the future for women who want to work in technology and develop their skills.” – Kate Liu, Inside Sales Manager at Vaisala 

What’s your perspective on the role of diversity in driving innovation in tech?

Mariko Mogi: I think that a diverse group of people brings together a wide range of perspectives and experiences, leading to more creative and innovative ideas and solutions to problems. That's why diversity is important.  

Jeena Chirakattu: When we have a diverse group of individuals from various backgrounds, it also brings in multidimensional creative ideas, perspectives, rich talent pools which will enhance the collective critical thinking and problem-solving capacity, which in turn leads to innovative and groundbreaking solutions.  

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“Diversity leads to more creative and innovative ideas.” –Mariko Mogi, Service Technician at Vaisala

At Vaisala, everyone is welcome as they are: our values, innovation, and curiosity are the most important elements uniting us. Learn more at vaisala.com/careers.