Data and analytics is a combination of IT and business skills

I ended up working within the IT industry by accident. I had a friend who was interested in computers and programming, and I became curious about it. Mathematics had always been my favorite subject in the school, and I figured out that computer science might be a good choice for me.

I graduated from the University of Helsinki where I studied computer science and mathematics. My career led me towards data and analytics consulting which is a combination IT and business skills. As there are many kinds of IT careers, it’s very hard to know whether IT studies are compulsory or not. However, to succeed in the data and analytics field as a consultant some level of knowledge of databases or programming (like SQL, Python) is needed.   

Woman in tech

Today, I work with Epical as SVP at Data & Analytics Finland. My ordinary working day includes customer meetings, resourcing issues, cooperation with sales, and talent acquisition. I also work very closely with my team members having many kinds of conversations with them – also regarding their careers.

My experience is that IT is a perfect match for woman or anybody else because IT is very equal industry. Maybe I’ve been the lucky one, but I have never experienced unequal treatment during my career at IT industry. Career opportunities in IT industry are growing and there are so many kinds of opportunities for all of us. There is always something new to explore and something new to learn. The more you learn, the more chances you may have to grow in the field.    

- Terhi Mattila, SVP Data & Analytics, Epical