A recent inspiring women in tech event reinforced something I see time and again in my work. The most valuable conversations about technology are rarely about the technology itself. They are about how people work, lead and adapt in a fast‑changing environment. As facilitator of the panel, I was struck by how open, practical and quietly optimistic the discussion was, and by how relevant it felt well beyond the room we were sitting in.
One of the strongest themes was how few of the panellists had set out with a clear intention to work in tech. Several described themselves as accidental technologists, drawn in through curiosity, problem‑solving and a desire to improve the way things are done. That idea resonated with the audience, particularly those who still feel that technology is a sector you have to enter early or follow a narrow path to belong.
What the conversation highlighted instead was the value of perspective. Understanding how technology fits into wider systems, how it affects people and how it creates impact is often just as important as technical depth. Many of the panellists spoke about learning enough about technology to ask good questions and make confident decisions, while working closely with specialists who bring different expertise. In a world where technology touches every sector, that ability to connect dots is increasingly critical.
The discussion around confidence was particularly thoughtful. Imposter syndrome came up not as something unusual or alarming, but as a feeling many people experience when they step into new or unfamiliar territory. Rather than allowing that feeling to define capability, the panel reflected on how it often sits alongside growth. Seeing uncertainty as a natural part of learning, rather than a sign of not belonging, can be an important shift. Confidence, as the discussion made clear, tends to follow experience rather than precede it.
We also heard practical examples of what inclusive leadership looks like in action. Kate spoke about how her business has developed with a strong proportion of women across the team, not through targets but through open recruitment, honest conversations and a clear sense of values. What stood out was how well this approach works within her business. The culture it creates supports collaboration, trust and long‑term success, and demonstrates that inclusion and performance are closely linked.
Another theme that stood out was the value of polymath thinking. Several panellists reflected on the strength that comes from breadth rather than narrow specialism. In technology‑led organisations, the ability to move between disciplines, understand enough to ask good questions and connect people, process and judgement is often what enables progress. Many of the challenges we face with technology are not purely technical, but sit at the intersection of systems and human decision‑making. Recognising this kind of cross‑functional thinking as a leadership capability, rather than a compromise, felt like an important and encouraging reframing.
What I took away from the evening was a strong sense of possibility. Technology careers are rarely linear. Many roles that exist today did not exist a few years ago, and that requires a mindset that is comfortable with change. Learning, experimentation and reflection are part of progress and are not signs of failure.
While this conversation took place in Norwich, its themes are nationally relevant. Tech does not need a single definition of expertise or leadership. It needs people who are curious, thoughtful and willing to shape what comes next… And what an exciting thought that is!
If there was one message I would encourage readers to take away, it is this. Women bring enormous value to technology through curiosity, perspective and the ability to navigate complexity. Many of the strengths we see across the sector come from being thoughtful, adaptable and willing to learn as roles evolve. The future of technology will be shaped by those who step forward with confidence in what they bring, contribute openly and continue to grow along the way.
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