An interview with a woman in computing.

 Rosann Hunt has been working in the professional realm of computing for over 17 years. She has been in both management positions and under other professionals as a computer programmer. I asked her a series of questions to better give us an insight into the world of a woman in computing. 

1. Why did you choose to work in this field?

I chose the Computer Science Field because of my older sister had been in IT world for many years. She was always able to have work and advanced in her salary each year.

Can you explain exactly what you do day in and day out?

I am responsible for the enhancement and system design of the software that allows the company to stay in business. I currently am working on an IBM mainframe platform programming in the language of COBOL.  Also writing specifications documentation and testing of enhancements from out side resources.

2. What are the top three challenges you have faced as a computer programmer?

Moving from position to position  due to new responsibilities

Moving from  platform to platform learning new systems and software.

Keeping up with new technologies as they are very changing.

3. Have you faced any specific issues being a woman in your field that you would not have faced if you were a man?

I was employed as an IT Programming Manager and an new CIO(Chief Info Officer) was hired and he was just too friendly and treated me as if I were a dumb blonde and too stupid to offer anything further in my position.

4. Can you recall any situations in your career where being a woman either helped or hindered your professional experience?

Not really

5. Are the majority of your coworkers male or female in your field?

Male

6. Would you suggest this profession to any person?

Most assuredly!! This is the only job I know of that has to do exactly as I programmed!!

7. What is the biggest blessing you have received for either your family or yourself from being a computer programmer?

The logic skills to see the whole picture in most situations.

8. Is there anything you would change in your field to better assist other women who are involved in professional computing?

The pay for women has been less compared to men. If feel a person should be paid for there abilities they bring to a company not if they are male or female

9. Any other gems of wisdom you may want to spread along...?

Life is to short to be in a job you hate so if that’s you find  away to do something you love because then it won’t be a job but an adventure!!!

Whatever job you are in always do your best !!

In every field any person can excel, no matter their sex, age, or ethnicity. I love how after 17 years of working hard in her field, Mrs. Hunt still loves her job and encourages others to work hard on their dreams. Women in computing and every profession in life face all of the same pressures and struggles, what we make of them as women is the real challenge.