You may have heard that the number of women out of work is at a 26-year high, that’s according to a recent study by the Fawcett Society.

While that news seems gloomy, there are a growing industries where women can find opportunities to suit their career aspirations and lifestyle. One such industry is IT.

Here Silka Patel, Marketing Manager for Cisco tells us why choosing IT has ticked the career and lifestyle boxes.

‘Technology is bleeding through every aspect of our lives,' says Silka. 'It’s one of few growth sectors in this economic climate, so importantly it is a good long-term bet as a career option.

‘The great news is that women have as much opportunity in the thriving technology industry as men. The sector provides flexible career opportunities so it is ideally suited for anyone – a man or a woman with a family or responsibilities outside of work.'

Flexible working

Silka Patel

Marketing Manager Silka Patel 

‘I’ve often had line managers who were based overseas, but I could work with them effectively using the technology,' says Silka. 'As I moved along my life journey by marrying, moving to Scotland and then becoming a mother, I was able to continue my work as there were no boundaries placed upon me due to the nature of the industry.

‘Since moving to Scotland in 2008, I’ve been leading the Connected Women's Group (CW) in Cisco Scotland with several initiatives to develop the progression and collaboration of the women’s community. This includes the set up of Scotland Women in Technology group (SWiT), which aims to attract, inspire, empower and retain women by developing a community to help grow women’s contribution in IT businesses.’

My career so far

‘My educational background was in business and marketing in the travel industry where I worked for Thomas Cook and P&O Cruises. When the world was shaken by the September 11 terrorist attacks, so was the travel industry. This made me look at the IT industry for career aspirations as it appeared to be growing rapidly.

‘Technology businesses really encourage flexible working styles that are more family-friendly and very productive.'

‘I joined Cisco in 2005 as an administrator to support the mid-market commercial sales team in the UK. This gave me a great platform to understand the IT business from a broader perspective. 

‘I was soon promoted to an executive assistant in 2007 and I’ve recently been promoted in Cisco to marketing manager for our service provider business unit within Europe and emerging markets.

‘This sector is a brilliant place for women to work and progress, yet we are very much in the minority. I hope to encourage more women into this exciting area, to develop their skills and so maximise the contribution to our economy.’

What next?

Find out more about working in the IT industry such as how many people are employed in Scotland and their average weekly earnings.

Are you a mum considering a career in the IT industry? Read our advice on returning to work after having a family.