How Female Role Models can Inspire Success in Tech

The technology sector remains a nexus of innovation and breakthrough developments are ever poised to transform the way we live. For Outi Vuorio, Director for Business Management at Microsoft Asia Pacific, nothing is more exciting than being part of this technology-driven future.

Outi Vuorio, Director for Business Management at Microsoft Asia Pacific, believes strong female role models are important to show younger women how they can succeed in the tech industry

Over the past 15 years, Outi has held diverse roles ranging from internal IT operations to product development at Nokia and now with Microsoft. She currently works with a team of developers based across Asia Pacific, focused on driving the growth of Microsoft’s mobile product portfolio in the region.

Here, Outi reflects on her career in tech and shares her views on the importance of female role models.  

My career in tech began when I was a student majoring in international business. I wanted to examine a global company with innovative products for my Master’s Thesis, and from that perspective, Nokia was clearly the most fascinating company in Finland. Upon completing my thesis, I was offered a job with Nokia and my career took off from there. I like to think I have seldom looked back!

I feel privileged to be part of an industry that is constantly evolving, and one that has given me the opportunities to always learn and challenge myself. Working in an international tech company has also allowed me to exchange views and work with people from different parts of the world on a daily basis.

About three and a half years ago, I was asked to relocate from Finland to China. I relish the opportunity to experience different cultures—and to take on the challenge of spearheading Microsoft’s product development in the fast-moving Asian consumer markets.

During my early years at Nokia, the largest business unit was led by a very intelligent and successful woman. She demonstrated that women can succeed even in the male-dominated tech industry. With her as an example, I was convinced that anyone can get the best jobs in the field, regardless of their gender.

Another great female role model is my recent manager, who taught me the importance of always thinking one step ahead to achieve success. She also showed me the value of perseverance and consistency in all our actions, in order to achieve the best outcomes.

An avid mountain skier, Outi strives to bring an adventurous spirit to her work at Microsoft

In the same vein, I aspire to become a strong role model or mentor, and show younger women that hard work, dedication and passion can take you far in many exciting career paths.

My advice for young women who want to enter the tech field? Technology is fast transforming the world. If you want to be part of this change, you need to boldly take the first step, and not let anyone or anything get in your way.

Comments

• Anonymous
  January 01, 2003
  Nice!!! power of woman..
• Anonymous
  January 01, 2003
  Excellent article. Thank you.
• Anonymous
  April 10, 2015
  My first bold step is to comment here! This article aspired me!
• Anonymous
  April 10, 2015
  Go girl power...
• Anonymous
  April 20, 2015
  Glad we could inspire our readers with this profile of Outi - she is amazing, isn't she?
• Anonymous
  July 04, 2015
  Great ! Thanks for sharing