At Ever Nimble we’re proud to be innovators in a male dominated industry who advocate for diversity across our teams, and champion the skills of the talented women we work with.
To celebrate International Women’s Day this year, we’re putting a spotlight on some of the incredible women who have helped make Ever Nimble what it is today. We spoke to Kaylie Shoulder, Erin Wills, Charlotte Burns, and Samriddhi Dhakal from our Swansea (UK), Perth, and Melbourne offices about their career paths, experiences, and advice for women looking to pursue a career in their respective industries.
Kaylie Shoulder
UK Reactive Team Leader
Swansea, UK
What motivated you to start working in this field?
Before I found IT, I studied Child Care and Science but neither of these felt right to me. I never thought of having a career in IT back then, even though I was glued to my computer playing games on Miniclip! It wasn’t until I sat down and had a chat with my father to discuss how lost I felt in terms of my career when he said, “why don’t you study IT? You’re really good with computers” that something clicked. So off I went to complete my Level 3 Diploma in IT, and that’s where it all started. Then I got my degree in Cyber Security and Networking, and joined Ever Nimble three months after graduating!
What has the journey to your current role involved?
I started off as a member of the Reactive team back in 2021, where I supported our clients via tickets and over the phone. I then started training in our Cyber Response department before joining that team full time for a few months.
When the vacancy for team leader of Reactive came up, I knew my heart lied within support and guiding others, so I jumped at the chance. Now I’m the team leader of our Reactive team here in the UK.
What do you enjoy about working in IT?
The fact that you never know everything, and you never will. IT is such a broad term that includes so many things, so even if you completely master something, there’s still so much more to learn elsewhere. You’re constantly learning every day, and constantly needing to refine your skills. IT never gets boring because of it.
Who do you look up to?
Whilst he’s no longer here with us, the one person I’ve always looked up to was my father. He was an incredibly hard worker and very dedicated to his family. He was a really strong positive role model for me growing up and into my late teens. I think growing up and seeing how hard he worked and cared for us instilled a strong work ethic in me, and inspired me to work hard and do all I can to support my family.
What challenges are you facing in the field, and what changes would you like to see moving forward?
I think the main challenge I faced with the IT field was how hard it was to break into. There are too many companies and organisations out there that put experience in the field before anything. For entry level positions, many companies ask for 2+ years’ experience and this makes it incredibly difficult for any graduates to get their initial shot. It’s sad because many people have the skills and dedication, but often lose out at the chance just because they don’t have experience under their belt.
This is something that really needs to be changed in future – people need to be given the chance to be able to succeed and a lot of places need to change the way they think about new hires – give newbies a chance! Thankfully, EN always gives everyone a chance, whether you’ve got years under your belt or you’re fresh out of uni.
What advice would you give to women ready to start or progress their career in IT?
My best piece of advice is to stick with it and don’t doubt your abilities! It’s normal to evaluate your skills and highlight any areas you’d like to develop, but there’s a lot of imposter syndrome within this industry; don’t let this get the better of you!
Just because it is a male dominated field it doesn’t mean you don’t belong, because you do. Your skills and knowledge are worth just as much, believe in yourself, keep forging ahead, and trust in yourself – you’ve got this!
Erin Wills
Head of Finance and Business Support
Perth, WA
What motivated you to start working in this field?
20 years ago, I started my accounting career in a small real estate office where I was able to be involved in all facets of operating a successful business. I quite enjoyed the challenge of the trust accounting which set me down the path of becoming a Chartered Accountant. Since then, I’ve been working with companies to improve all types of business processes and their financial health, and most importantly working with great teams, building relationships, and learning every day!
What has the journey to your current role involved?
The journey involved the rigours of completing a business degree and the Chartered Accountants qualification, along with working hard to set yourself up for future success. Gaining experience in all aspects of running a business is key, not just focusing on the debits/credits, but understanding the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of internal business operations and being able to problem solve on the fly! Ensuring you have a supportive and smart team around you will also ensure success.
What do you enjoy about working in this industry?
I quite enjoy the IT side of accounting. Whether it be a new app which feeds data automatically into Xero, playing around with data in Excel, solving efficiency issues in software, workflow processes, or learning about new dashboard setups, every day is always different. Whilst I work alongside amazing tech experts here in the office, I get access to the latest apps and software tools!
Who do you look up to?
I look up to successful mentors in my field, those I have worked with in previous companies who are always available for a quick chat whenever I need help. I’m very grateful to them for my opportunities over the past decade and it’s nice to know they have my back!
What challenges are you facing, and what changes would you like to see moving forward?
Challenges are a daily given. Mostly I wish I had the ability to pause time, however in reality it means I need to review the 4 D’s (Delegate, Defer, Delete and Do) to help with my schedule. I’d like to see changes in the way older generations view younger staff and realise they are so capable, resilient, and innovative in their work! Tech expertise is the way forward for growth and efficiency in business.
What advice would you give to women ready to start or progress their career in this industry?
I would say to have an open mind towards careers in the STEM industry whether it be engineering, IT, accounting, or something else. There are huge opportunities to solve problems for tomorrow’s world. Every day is different, and you gain confidence with each project you undertake. Having a mentor in your field will also help you on your way. As with every career, there is a huge learning curve to start off with but enjoy the ride and the continuous learning, always stay curious!
Charlotte Burns
Manager Implementation and Onboarding
Melbourne, VIC
What motivated you to start working in this field?
I have always been that “go-to” person in my family for any kind of computer, phone, or internet issues – so it just made sense. Another motivation for me was to try and close the gender gap in the IT industry, which is hugely male-dominated!
What has the journey to your current role involved?
Honestly, striving to try and enact change throughout my time at Ever Nimble. I really like identifying areas for improvement, and putting all my energy into making things better for my colleagues. So now that’s become my job, which I love!
What do you enjoy about working in IT?
There are so many different paths to take, the world really is your oyster (yum).
Who do you look up to?
Jacinda Ardern. She gets the job done, all the while remaining friendly, warm, and respectful.
What challenges are you facing in the field, and what changes would you like to see moving forward?
Talent shortage is a huge one at the moment that I know many other MSPs and IT companies in general are facing. I’d love to see more investment, time, and energy into upskilling existing people in the industry to get them to fill those gaps, rather than spending heaps of time trying to find the right person with the right qualifications or skillset.
Samriddhi Dhakal
Cyber Response Expert
Perth, WA
What motivated you to start working in this field?
I was always fascinated with computers. Growing up I saw my mother learning and later working as a computer operator. I chose a different career first, but when I came to Australia, I had the freedom to start from scratch and I chose something that I always found interesting.
What has the journey to your current role involved?
I completed my Cert IV in General IT and Cert IV in Cyber Security from South Metro TAFE. I did a few months’ work experience in an IT support role at another company before I landed my first full time role as a Reactive Support Expert at Ever Nimble. I am so glad that I joined Ever Nimble – I have gathered so much knowledge from my teammates who have been incredible. Being my first customer facing role, I have become more confident. I have been working under incredible team leaders and managers, and I feel so lucky to be here. I moved to a Cyber Security Expert role, and I have been guided by team leaders and peers throughout the journey. I love coming to work every day, not just because of the work but also the incredibly happy people around.
What do you enjoy about working in IT?
Learning interesting new ways of solving issues, being able to help clients when in need, getting to play with technology and be grateful for all things we have been able to achieve via technology, and learning new things every day. Also, passing on knowledge to my peers. It is never a dull day!
Who do you look up to?
I look up to my mother. She is a strong, independent woman who inspires me to be more mindful and giving, and to never give up on my dreams because nothing is unattainable.
What challenges are you facing in the field, and what changes would you like to see moving forward?
I have been lucky in this case so far. Ever Nimble has been flexible to meet my family needs. I had just had my baby and needed a kick start in my career, and I received a warm welcome at Ever Nimble. Our CEO Chris promotes and supports women empowerment, and it reflects in the company culture. I wish the same for other companies, I know it is not the same situation out there.
What advice would you give to women ready to start or progress their career in IT?
IT is always changing, there is always something new to learn each day. If you love learning, IT is a field for you. And remember, it is never too late to start your IT journey.
Thanks to Kaylie, Erin, Charlotte, and Samriddhi for sharing their experiences and advice!
