Mums in Tech - feat. Amanda Vuong
As part of our ‘Mums in Tech’ series, we caught up with Amanda Vuong, Backend Developer at Springer Nature.
The purpose of our 'MotherBoard’ content series is to highlight incredible working mums within tech & data, as well as individuals and businesses that are supportive and progressive within their approach to creating more inclusive tech & data teams for women.
Firstly, can you please introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your current role?
I’m Amanda Vuong, during COVID-19 pandemic, I was working full-time in a non-tech role, caring for a two year old and pregnant. With conflicting responsibilities and lockdown it was time for a reset. During my maternity leave, my partner suggested I attend ‘MotherBoard - The Launch Event’ in early 2021. This event inspired me to look into moving into tech, so I began my journey of transitioning during my maternity leave by going onto courses from CodeFirstGirls and Makers Academy. Now, I’m a mum of two young energetic children and a Backend Developer at Springer Nature since early 2022.
If you could sum up what it’s like being a working mum in tech in one sentence, what would it be?
It's surreal to be switching into tech in my mid/ late 30s with two young children, however it has been rewarding as I have a good work life balance while growing my career and tackling complicated technical challenges at work.
“During my maternity leave, my partner suggested I attend ‘MotherBoard - The Launch Event’ in early 2021. This event inspired me to look into moving into tech… now I’m a mum of two young energetic children and a Backend Developer at Springer Nature since early 2022.”
How do you find the balance between your career and motherhood?
It’s easier said than done but I try to let go of guilt that I can’t do everything and accept imperfections. It’s important to set boundaries and realistic goals by integrating time management in my daily routine. I have an established routine for both my career and family responsibilities; when I’m at work, I focus on my tasks and responsibilities, when I’m with my children, I try to be present and engaged in the moment.
What has been your greatest challenge as a working mother in tech?
My journey of career switching into tech was challenging, learning software development and getting to grips of being a parent of two was an obstacle in itself.
“Motherhood requires a great deal of patience and resilience in the face of setbacks and obstacles. These qualities can be highly beneficial in the workplace, where you may encounter difficult situations. ”
What skills have you developed as a mother that have helped your work life?
Patience and resilience: Motherhood requires a great deal of patience and resilience in the face of setbacks and obstacles. These qualities can be highly beneficial in the workplace, where you may encounter difficult situations.
When you were returning to work, what one thing helped you / would have helped you the most?
I returned to a non-tech role after maternity leave, and one thing that helped me the most when returning to work was having a supportive and understanding manager who allowed me to ease back into my role slowly and provided me with the necessary resources and support to help me adjust. Additionally, having open and honest communication with my colleagues about my return to work and any accommodations I may need also made a significant difference.
Whilst job searching for a tech role, when I was going through the interview process for tech roles I highlighted in the first stage interview process that I’m a parent and one of my many priorities is having a good work life balance. Springer Nature, the company I joined, lived up to my expectations. They have a great culture and through the company's network I’ve had the opportunity to be part of the FT Women in Business Forum and be a mentor through The Girls Network, which helped with my personal development.
“Don't be afraid to advocate for yourself and your worth… Remember that you bring a unique perspective and set of skills to the table, and don't be afraid to showcase that. ”
What do you feel should be the top priority for employers who want to support working mothers better?
There are several key priorities that employers should focus on in order to better support working mothers and those with caring responsibilities:
Flexible working arrangements: Offering flexible working hours, remote work options, and the ability to work from home can help working mothers better balance their work and family responsibilities.
Supportive work culture: Creating a supportive work environment that values work-life balance, encourages open communication, and provides resources for working mothers to succeed can help retain top talent.
Mentorship and career development: Providing mentorship opportunities, career development programs, and networking opportunities can help working mothers advance in their careers and reach their full potential.
Any final words of advice for other mothers in the Tech Industry?
Don't be afraid to advocate for yourself and your worth. You have just as much right to be in this industry as anyone else, so don't let imposter syndrome hold you back. Surround yourself with a supportive network, seek out mentorship opportunities, and continue to learn and grow in your skills. Remember that you bring a unique perspective and set of skills to the table, and don't be afraid to showcase that. Trust in your abilities and don't be afraid to take risks or pursue new opportunities. You are capable of achieving great things in this industry, so go out there and make it happen.
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