Diversity, equality, and inclusion is more than just a goal for the technology world — it’s a necessity. That’s why Mission Critical hosts the annual Women in Technology contest. As the demands for data generation, consumption, sharing, storage, processing, and more continue to grow and cybercriminals become increasingly more threatening, it’s clear that the industry needs more people to collaborative on innovative solutions to consumer needs, sustainable connectivity, and cyber safe infrastructure.

Women from all over the world in a wide range of technology sectors, including data centers, health care, and food processing, were nominated for their admirable contributions to the industry and the people who rely on it.  

As Rebecca Ellis, president of Questions & Solutions Engineering Inc. and one of this year’s winners, so matter-of-factly put it, “If technology is to benefit all people, then all people need to be represented in the development and application of that technology.”

And, with that, Mission Critical is excited to introduce you to the 2022 Top 25 Women in Technology.

Beth Gentle

Title: National Services Manager

Company: Australian IT Services

Age: 26  

Education: Currently studying for a Bachelor of Business BA-BUS10, majoring in marketing, Diploma of Canine Rehabilitation, Diploma of Music Industry CUA50815

Organizational Affiliations: Infrastructure Masons Australian Chapter Leader, AFCOM Sydney Chapter Secretary and Board Member, and GenNext AFCOM Committee Board Member  

Achievements/Awards: Infrastruxture Masons iM100 Award (2020)

What inspires you to do what you do?

Working in my family's owned and operated business comes with it's own drive each and every day. A career in technology inspires motivation with trends changing day to day. I find there is never a dull moment, and that encompasses why I love what I do. It's very inspiring to wake up and strive to achieve for the greater good of yourself, your family and the world around you.

 

 

What role does sustainability play in your life?

Engaging in and encouraging sustainable practices is our chance at a better future — for the environment and for ourselves. It's a chance to continuously improve as a society and make pathways for healthy and happy future generations. Sustainability is everyone’s responsibility now and will always be worth fighting for.

What is the most fascinating thing you have learned while working in this industry?

The data center is the engine of the world. Data cents are the greatest utility that powers all other utilities.

What’s something unique about you personally?  

I have been known to belt out "Mustang Sally" when a microphone is nearby (karaoke anyone?).

What’s something unique about you professionally?  

I am a 26-year-old female in the data center industry (ha..ha..)

I am resilient, adaptable to change, and able to handle challenges promptly and effectively.

What’s your most admirable quality?  

I'm a doer. Nothing satisfies me more than setting goals and tasks and putting a big tick next to them.

Why is diversity, equality, and inclusion important to you?

As a young female in a male-dominated industry, gender inequality is a very important issue to me. Inequality across gender, ethnicity, religion, and social status has plagued the world for too long, it is important for me to see and act on change, so there is hope for future generations. Diversity of thought comes from a collective approach, sparking challenges to status quo thinking, which equals change.

 

“Engaging in and encouraging sustainable practices is our chance at a better future — for the environment and for ourselves. It's a chance to continuously improve as a society and make pathways for healthy and happy future generations. Sustainability is everyone’s responsibility now and will always be worth fighting for.”
- Beth Gentle, National Services Manager for Australian IT Services

 

What aspect of the industry do you think has the most potential for growth, and, on the other hand, which aspect do you think needs the most improvement?

Potential for growth — diversity and inclusion. It’s happening on company boards, CEO appointments, and through progressive hiring practices. Innovation comes from connecting with different groups of people that forms a broader knowledge base.

Needs most improvement — education, career pathways, and expanding the talent pipeline. A growing industry that is so impactful on the environment needs fresh ideas and out-of-the-box thinking to tackle sustainability issues.

When you imagine the future of the technology industry, what does it look like?

The most progressive, advanced and exciting industry to work in.

 

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