Love for technology led Maria Moubarak to pursue a career in tech

TECHx secured an exclusive interview with Maria Moubarak, Regional Marketing Manager, Kodak Alaris, on the occasion of International Women’s Day 2022. We asked Maria a few questions to understand more about her career, the challenges she encountered, and the significance of a diverse workforce. Here’s a quick look at the responses we received.

TECHx: What inspired you to pursue a career in technology?

Maria: I have always had a love for technology and wanted to enter this industry since my early study days. Technology has connected people, given us the means to communicate and enhance our lives. We are capable today of doing things that were not possible before. It’s an industry that focuses on breaking ground and in this sector, we always thrive for growth. As a marketer, it’s the perfect opportunity for growing your creativity and standing out.  

TECHx: How have you dealt with challenges throughout your career?

Maria: Throughout my career, a lot of challenges have presented themselves. The most important thing is to always stay positive, optimistic, and calm. Coming from a marketing background with minimal knowledge about technology, I had to study and self-develop my skills to be up to speed with everyone in this industry and to deliver the best strategies, campaigns, and results.

TECHx: How do gender balance and a diverse workforce contribute to the success of an organization?

Maria: Gender diversity is very important. Women represent half the world’s population but still they only constitute around 37% of the workforce globally. Organisations that encourage women to join them will have a diverse and inclusive team. It means the companies will benefit from different perspectives that can trigger creativity and innovation.    

TECHx: Do you have a female role model? If so, who is she and how has she inspired you?

Maria: My mother has always been my role model. She is a very resilient and strong woman. As a very successful and career driven woman, she has been my personal coach during every stage of my life journey and challenged me in every step that I take for me to always do better.  

TECHx: What is it about your work that excites you?

Maria: We work in a fast-changing and challenging industry. We work with a growth mindset and with agility which gives us more room for creativity and new ideas. That alone is very exciting and stimulating at the same time.

TECHx: With technology moving so fast, how do you remain updated?

Maria: Every day in the morning, I take time to read. Whether it’s monitoring social media, reading different Tech magazines, or watching small videos from experts on updates in the industry and what’s happening around the world is very important to remain updated.

TECHx: What’s your favorite motivational quote?

Maria: “Go as far as you can see, when you get there, you’ll be able to see further” – Thomas Carlyle

TECHx: Among all the gadgets you use, which is your favorite?

Maria: My smartphone. Today all our lives are in this small device, and we rely on it every second of the day. It’s a small computer in our pocket and changed our perspective towards technology and information.

TECHx: When it comes to progressing in a leadership role, what are the most important traits? Can you give one piece of advice to young females who are considering careers in tech?

Maria: Leaders shape organizations and motivate their teams. The most important trait is integrity, being honest and having strong moral principles. Also, communication is crucial to a successful leader, to be able to transmit information, inspire others, coach them and listen to them. Only when a leader can do all of those, he/she will then be able to influence others to always do better.

My advice to young females who are considering a career in tech, is to keep an open mind and learn something new every day. Find a company that will help you grow your skills, follow your passion, speak up and be heard. If you are passionate enough anything is possible.