Mums in Tech ft. Rae Hoskins
As part of our ‘Mums in Tech’ series, we caught up with Rae Hoskins, Technology Operations Manager at CU NextGen.
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 have a background in IT ethics and law, which gives me a unique perspective on the intersection of technology, policy, and innovation. In my current role as the Technology Operations Manager at CU NextGen, my work focuses on shaping transformative technology solutions, but what truly drives me is building systems that prioritize people—ensuring that the technology we create is inclusive, impactful, and designed to make a difference in the real world.
At the heart of everything I do is my two-year-old son. He’s the spark that fuels my passion and reminds me daily why I strive to push boundaries. His energy, curiosity, and sheer joy are constant inspirations, and he motivates me to think about the kind of future I want to create—not just for him, but for every child who will grow up in a world shaped by the technologies we build today.
Beyond my role at CU NextGen, I’m deeply committed to empowering women in tech and breaking down barriers that still exist for working mothers. I want to show my son that ambition, compassion, and resilience are not just compatible but powerful when combined. My journey as a technologist and mother has taught me that success is about more than professional achievements—it’s about the legacy we leave behind for the next generation.
If you could sum up what it’s like being a working mum in tech in one sentence, what would it be?
It’s proof that resilience and passion can coexist, and that motherhood isn’t a limitation—it’s a superpower.
“My journey as a technologist and mother has taught me that success is about more than professional achievements—it’s about the legacy we leave behind for the next generation.”
How do you find the balance between your career and motherhood?
Working remotely since my son was two months old has truly been a game-changer, offering me the incredible gift of being fully present in both of my most important roles: mother and leader. It’s allowed me to witness my son’s first milestones, cheer him on during his small victories, and create a nurturing environment while continuing to grow and contribute professionally. This flexibility has shown me that the traditional boundaries between work and family life can be redefined in ways that are both productive and deeply fulfilling.
For me, balance isn’t about perfectly separating these roles; it’s about embracing their intersection. I integrate my responsibilities rather than compartmentalizing them, finding harmony in the moments when my work and motherhood complement one another. My son’s presence during my workdays is a constant reminder of why I push so hard to innovate and lead—he inspires me to create a future filled with more opportunities for him and others.
That’s not to say it’s always seamless. There are challenges—days when meetings run late, when deadlines loom, or when I feel the pull of needing to be everywhere at once. But I’ve learned to reframe those challenges as reminders of my strength and adaptability. Each time I navigate those moments, I’m showing my son what resilience and determination look like. And every challenge becomes worth it when I see him thriving, knowing that I’m building not just a better world for him, but one he’ll be proud of.
The experience has also taught me to extend grace to myself and to embrace the imperfections that come with this balancing act. It’s a journey, not a destination, and every step forward is fueled by the love I have for my family and my passion for my work.
What has been your greatest challenge as a working mother in tech?
The societal expectation that women must choose between motherhood and ambition has been one of the most pervasive challenges I’ve faced. For much of my career, I heard the same refrain from mentors, colleagues, and even friends: Wait to have kids. Focus on your career first. The underlying message was clear—motherhood was seen as an obstacle, a detour from the path of professional success. For a long time, I wrestled with those warnings, wondering if pursuing both was even possible.
But the moment I became a mother, everything changed. Far from holding me back, motherhood has been the most profound catalyst for my growth. It has strengthened my resolve, sharpened my focus, and redefined what success truly means. My son is not a distraction from my ambition—he is the reason for it. Every decision I make, every project I lead, and every innovation I contribute to is driven by the desire to create a better, more inclusive world for him and for others.
Proving that motherhood can coexist with leadership and innovation is no small task, especially in industries like tech that often undervalue the unique perspectives and strengths that mothers bring to the table. It’s an ongoing challenge to push back against stereotypes, break down systemic barriers, and advocate for policies that support working parents. But it’s a challenge I’m proud to take on because every step forward is a step closer to redefining what’s possible for women.
Motherhood has taught me that ambition and caregiving are not opposites—they are complementary forces. It has given me a greater sense of purpose, resilience, and creativity. I want to show the world that women don’t have to choose between being incredible mothers and extraordinary professionals. We can be both. And when given the chance, we excel—not in spite of our roles as mothers, but because of them.
“I want to show the world that women don’t have to choose between being incredible mothers and extraordinary professionals.”
What skills have you developed as a mother that have helped your work life?
Motherhood has amplified my ability to prioritize, multitask, and find creative solutions, often in high-pressure situations. Juggling the unpredictable needs of a toddler alongside the demands of a fast-paced tech career has taught me how to assess what truly needs my attention and make quick, effective decisions without losing focus.
But beyond the tactical skills, motherhood has profoundly deepened my empathy and patience. It’s shown me the value of truly listening—to my child, to my team, and to myself—and has reinforced the importance of meeting people where they are. These qualities have transformed my leadership style, enabling me to build stronger, more cohesive teams where individuals feel supported and understood.
Being a mom has also sharpened my time management skills in ways I never imagined. I’ve learned to maximize every moment, streamline my workflows, and set boundaries that ensure I’m present in the areas that matter most. Whether it’s finding innovative solutions to technical challenges or creating space for quality time with my family, motherhood has taught me to lead with purpose and intention.
Most importantly, it’s given me a new perspective on resilience and adaptability. When you’re a parent, you’re constantly adapting to change, thinking on your feet, and finding joy in the chaos. That mindset translates directly to my work, where I embrace challenges as opportunities and approach each day with a renewed sense of determination to create a better future—for my son and for the world he’ll grow up in.
When you were returning to work, what one thing helped you / would have helped you the most?
CU NextGen’s willingness to offer remote work was invaluable—it allowed me to transition back to my role without compromising my bond with my newborn. Flexibility isn’t just a perk; it’s an essential support system for working mothers. Having the trust of my employer and the ability to work from home set the tone for a successful return to work.
What truly sets my experience apart, however, is the ongoing support I’ve received from my leadership team, even as my son has grown older. They don’t just know me as a professional; they know me as a person. They’ve taken the time to understand my family dynamic, my schedule, and the unique challenges that come with being a working mom. They know my son by name, check in on him regularly, and celebrate his milestones alongside me.
Their commitment to ensuring I put family first has allowed me to show up as my best self—at home and at work. This level of empathy and understanding creates a workplace culture where I feel valued not just for my contributions, but for who I am outside of my role. It’s this holistic approach to support that inspires me to go above and beyond in my work and advocate for more workplaces to embrace this mindset. When leaders invest in their people, they don’t just retain talent—they cultivate loyalty, innovation, and a sense of belonging.
“By investing in mothers, companies aren’t just doing the right thing—they’re unlocking talent, perspective, and leadership potential.”
What do you feel should be the top priority for employers who want to support working mothers better?
Empathy and action go hand in hand when it comes to creating truly supportive environments for working mothers. Policies like remote work options, flexible hours, and parental leave are foundational, but they’re just the starting point. What makes the real difference is a workplace culture that doesn’t just accommodate motherhood but celebrates it as an asset. Too often, the narrative around motherhood in the workplace focuses on what’s perceived as a limitation, but in reality, being a mother cultivates invaluable qualities that benefit any team or organization.
Employers need to recognize the unique strengths mothers bring to the table—resilience honed through navigating challenges, adaptability developed through managing ever-changing family needs, and unparalleled problem-solving skills born from juggling multiple priorities. These are the same skills that drive innovation, improve team dynamics, and foster creative solutions in the workplace. By investing in mothers, companies aren’t just doing the right thing—they’re unlocking talent, perspective, and leadership potential.
But this requires action beyond policy. It means building a culture where leaders check in on their team members as whole people, not just employees. It means creating spaces where mothers feel seen, supported, and encouraged to grow. It means normalizing conversations about balancing work and family life and ensuring that no one feels the need to hide their parenting responsibilities to be taken seriously.
Ultimately, it’s about more than retaining talent—it’s about building workplaces where mothers can thrive, contribute fully, and lead the way in shaping a more inclusive future. When companies commit to valuing motherhood as a strength rather than a setback, they don’t just change the lives of their employees; they set a standard for the entire industry and inspire a cultural shift that benefits everyone.
Any final words of advice for other mothers in the Tech Industry?
Don’t let anyone convince you that motherhood is a barrier to success. Motherhood isn’t a detour—it’s a source of unparalleled strength, clarity, and resilience. It’s a reminder of your purpose and the impact you’re capable of making, both in your personal life and your professional journey. Every challenge you overcome as a mother shapes you into a more adaptable, compassionate, and innovative individual, and those qualities are exactly what the world needs in its leaders.
Surround yourself with allies who see your potential and cheer you on—people who believe in your ability to thrive in all your roles, not despite motherhood, but because of it. Seek out mentors, colleagues, and communities that uplift you and understand the value you bring. And most importantly, advocate for yourself unapologetically. Ask for what you need, set boundaries, and don’t hesitate to challenge outdated stereotypes that suggest you have to choose between being a great mother and a great professional. You can—and should—be both.
Remember, your journey isn’t just about you. Every step you take to break barriers, every time you challenge the status quo, and every time you push forward despite the odds, you’re paving the way for others. You’re showing the next generation—your children, their peers, and the countless others watching—that success is not defined by fitting into a mold but by rewriting the rules.
You’re building a future where women don’t have to choose between ambition and family, where mothers are valued as leaders, and where opportunities exist because of the groundwork you’re laying today. Own your story, embrace your strength, and keep moving forward—because the world you’re helping to create is one worth fighting for.
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