Early years and where you came from?
I got my start in tech with the original startups — the dotcoms in San Francisco. I worked as a Talent professional — building People infrastructures and teams for young companies.
How were you introduced to the world of the Portuguese tech industry?
A former colleague at Beta-i introduced me to the group. I was involved with similar groups in the states.
Walk me through your work and what you are doing now in the tech industry.
I’ve donned many Talent and Operations hats in the startup, private, and public arenas. I’ve been especially involved in building high-performing teams, shaping engaging and productive work environments, and maximizing People investments. I’ve also spent a lot of time working closely with Engineering teams in recruitment, career-pathing, and enablement capacities. I’m currently partnering with a Portuguese company to refine their Engineering Ramp-Up framework.
What part of what you do, you love the most?
I love identifying challenges, connecting dots, and strategizing solutions to make clients’ and employees’ work lives easier so they can focus on delivering the best work possible.
How do you think that your background and knowledge impact the way you approach your work in the Portuguese tech industry?
I’ve been fortunate to work in a variety of industries, as well as with companies of varying sizes across the globe. My diverse experience has made me super adaptable and open-minded. Plus, my background gifted me with a holistic business acumen that complements my People expertise.
What advice do you have for young women that want to get into tech and don’t know where to start?
Browse job sites such as LinkedIn, Indeed, or Glassdoor to get a taste of the tech jobs available. See which type of roles pique your interest and explore the different paths to get there whether it’s a coding bootcamp, UX workshop, or an introductory class at a campus. Also, don’t be shy — find people on LinkedIn in tech roles and request an informational interview to learn more about what the role looks like in real life -and their path to success. I find most people like to share!
Walk me through a day in your life as a Portuguese women in tech.
I’m currently conducting discovery to determine what’s working in my client’s Engineering Ramp-Up framework, where they envision the program and the gaps. I’m also connecting with many internal stakeholders to ideate solutions to close the gaps so Engineers can ramp-up to productivity faster.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
Be patient with all things especially yourself.
What apps/software/tools can’t you live without?
I like to keep things simple: MacBook, Spotify, a journal, gmail/calendar, and a pen with a good grip. The LinkedIn App is my main source for People and company information. I’ve curated a network so I can stay abreast of People and news that are important to me.
Anything else you want to share?
In Her Words, a twice-weekly newsletter on women, gender and society!
👉Find Monica on LinkedIn
