Gloria Ooi
Software Engineer
Gloria had never worked with code until she was in her first year of uni. She’s now a fully-fledged software engineer and says she loves building new apps and software because it changes people’s lives.
What work do you do?
I’m a software engineer/programmer.
When you were at school did you know what work you wanted to do?
Nope. I had never touched code until I was in my first year of uni.
How did you get started?
I took a unit/subject about coding in my first year of university. It was very challenging, but I felt happy and satisfied every time I managed to solve a problem.
What do you love most about your work?
It’s amazing to see something like a website appear out of nothing because of my and my teammates’ efforts. More importantly, knowing that it will actually be used by people makes me (and my work) feel really cool.
What was your biggest ‘fail’ so far?
I personally don’t like to define them as failures. They are all just events that have happened in the past. I try my best to learn from them and continue to push forward with a smile.
What’s your biggest accomplishment?
Getting involved in Women in Tech initiatives and mentoring programs. By being in the community, supporting each other and pushing limits together.
Who helped you get to where you are today?
My family, my beliefs, my friends and kind strangers.
How has technology changed your industry in the last 5-10 years?
As a software engineer, I work in the IT industry. Coding and building new apps and software is changing people’s lives every day. They’re creating the future.
What’s your advice for young girls thinking about a career in your industry?
Believe that you are capable and work hard on it. I love this quote by Amy Rand “The question isn’t who is going to let me, it’s who is going to stop me.”
In your wildest dreams, what would you love to do every day and get paid for it?
I already have the coolest job in the world! Being in the front line of creating new technology also means that I am playing a part in creating the future (don’t you think it’s just the coolest?).
