There is no single route into a career in technology. For some, it’s a lifelong ambition. For others, it’s a path discovered later in life. We spoke to Alys Pritchard, one of Mayden’s developers, about her journey into tech, the importance of challenging stereotypes, and what she’d say to women considering a career in the sector.
What got you interested in the world of coding?
My route into tech wasn’t a traditional one. I dropped out of university in my early twenties and spent a while figuring out what I wanted to do. At the time, I didn’t really know that software development was an option for me.
A friend of mine had started learning to code and I remember thinking it looked fun and interesting. That sparked my curiosity, so I started teaching myself and eventually found an evening course at Bristol College. I also took part in a Code First Girls course sponsored by Just Eat, which was a great introduction to the industry.
It took me a while to commit. I went to a few taster sessions and explored different options before deciding to take the leap. Seven years later, I’m still here and I’m really glad I did.
Looking back, it makes a lot of sense. I always loved maths at school and enjoyed problem-solving. In hindsight, I think I would have loved studying computer science, but it just wasn’t on my radar.
At the time, I didn’t know I was autistic, and I found sixth form quite difficult. I started a Medical Sciences degree but realised it wasn’t right for me and left after a semester. One thing I feel strongly about now is helping young people understand the range of career options available to them. I’ve gone back to speak at sixth form careers events because I remember how difficult I found it to work out what I wanted to do.
One thing I’ve noticed is that companies that recruit through bootcamps often have a more balanced gender split. Computer science and software development aren’t always presented as career options to girls at school, so many women discover them later through alternative routes.
The learning curve can feel steep at first, but once it starts to click, it feels surprisingly natural. It’s a bit like learning a new language. If you enjoy solving problems, there’s a good chance you’ll enjoy coding too.
"If you like problem-solving, there's a good chance you'll enjoy coding. Tech is for anyone willing to give it a go."
What is your top tip for women looking to start a career in tech?
My biggest piece of advice would be to get involved in the tech community.
There are so many great meetups, events and learning opportunities available now, particularly across Bristol and Bath. They’re a brilliant way to meet people, learn about different roles and hear from others already working in the industry.
One example is CodeHub, a weekly event in Bristol, where experienced developers help people work through projects and coding challenges. It’s a really welcoming environment and a great place to learn.
I know attending events can feel intimidating, especially if you’re going on your own. If that’s the case, reach out to someone beforehand. Send a LinkedIn message to the organiser or someone attending and ask if they can be a friendly face when you arrive. In my experience, people in tech are incredibly welcoming and happy to help.
A lot of people working in technology are naturally introverted, so you’ll be among like-minded people.
I’d also encourage people to make the most of the huge number of free resources available online. There are so many ways to learn and explore tech before deciding whether it’s something you’d like to pursue professionally.
What is the one thing you would do to encourage more women into the tech sector?
I think visibility is incredibly important.
Many of our ideas about gender roles are formed when we’re young and based around stereotypes. Growing up, I assumed coding was for boys. I didn’t see people like me in those roles, so I never considered it as a possible career.
It’s hard to challenge those assumptions when they’re so deeply ingrained, but seeing more women in technology helps change perceptions. The more visible women are in technical roles, the easier it becomes for others to imagine themselves doing the same.
I’ve had women reach out to me on LinkedIn to ask about my career, and I always try to make time for those conversations because I know how valuable it can be to hear from someone who’s been through a similar experience.
“Ultimately, my message is very simple: if you're interested in tech, then it's for you.”
You don’t have to commit to a huge career change straight away. Try a course, attend a meetup, learn a little bit for fun and see where it takes you.
Once I let go of my own preconceptions about who technology was for, I realised I could do it too. And that’s something I’d love more women to discover for themselves.
Join like-minded people in tech
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