Breaking Barriers: CommBank’s Role in Promoting Women’s Careers in Tech

In an effort to reshape perceptions about the tech industry, CommBank’s Chief People Officer, Kiersten Robinson, underscored the significance of events like Vogue Codes. These initiatives play a pivotal role in challenging stereotypes about who can thrive in technology sectors.

Encouraging Diversity in Tech

Robinson stated, “Events like Vogue Codes are important because they are helping to challenge stereotypes about who can be successful in tech. They amplify voices, bring together people to connect and importantly talk about the impact that we can all make through technology like AI.”

A Pathway to a Tech Career

CommBank utilized the Vogue Codes platform to convey an important message: it’s never too late to transition to a career in technology, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI) and related fields. The journey of professionals from various backgrounds illustrates this potential.

Real-Life Transitions

Data Scientist Laura Moore highlighted her own transformation from veterinary science to data science, showcasing the value diverse career foundations bring into the tech landscape. She remarked, “There are so many ways to learn about the AI space, and so many different areas to contribute to in AI – so it’s worth investigating to see what interests you. It’s so important to encourage more diversity in AI and technology careers.”

Similarly, Vicky Lam’s journey from Human Resources (HR) to data science exemplifies how the right mindset can facilitate a career switch. She noted, “When I began my career at CommBank, I got a front row seat to the growing field of data and AI, and I was lucky enough to be part of the bank’s first ever re-skilling program focused on data analytics. This opened doors to exciting roles across the tech space, from building customer loyalty platforms like CommBank Yello to now working in Data Science and AI. It’s been a wild ride full of learning, and amazing mentors and colleagues.”

Future Opportunities in Tech

During Vogue Codes, Sabina Streatfeild, who leads CommBank’s innovation and tech community, discussed the increasing demand for tech skills, especially in cyber security, data science, and engineering. Streatfeild emphasized, “The roles of the future we see are things like engineering, product management, and AI. The opportunity this is presenting for the future workforce, as well as career changes, is incredibly exciting.”

Supporting Women in Tech

Through its partnership with Vogue Codes, CommBank is actively advocating for women to explore careers within technology. The initiative focuses on sharing inspiring accounts from women who are excelling in AI, cyber, and other tech-related fields.

For more information about potential career opportunities in technology at CommBank, visit CommBank Careers.