Q&A w/ Sophia Chambers, Senior Engineering Manager @ Sky

1. Thanks so much for taking the time to speak with us, Sophia! First, please introduce yourself!

Hey, I’m Sophia and I’m currently a Senior Engineering Manager at Sky. I am responsible for Sports Data for the Sky Sports website and app, contributing to many highly visible projects including Sky Tennis and Sky Sports+. 

In addition, I have three children (who are now 11, 15 and 17!) and in my spare time run a non-profit organization that helps individuals from all backgrounds into work, education, and training opportunities. I am also an advocate for Diabetes, Young Parents and Mental Health.

2. What are you looking forward to at Women of Silicon Roundabout?

I want the opportunity to share my experience/story, my route was not traditional and explores many areas of womanhood development and societal pressures from both being a mother and career woman in software engineering. I hope my journey can provide folks with a message that we are not limited, but limitless no matter our background.                

3. What would be your advice to other women in tech who are coming up in the industry?

Don’t be afraid to be you, if every individual thought the same the world would be such a boring place (with the persistent same results) this is the same frame of mind to have for career growth, solutioning and development. Your superpower is your individuality, don’t be afraid to use it. 

4. Women of Silicon Roundabout is built on community; what advice would you give to our attendees on building your network and furthering your presence?

Networking and mentorship are extremely important throughout your career, having supportive individuals (particularly more seasoned and experienced leaders) can provide you with clear guidance, advice and additional growth when needed. Don’t be afraid to reach out to others, add folks on Linkedin, attend meetups, grow your contacts. This is one of the key pillars needed to enable a prosperous career. 

5. Finally, what can attendees expect from your session?

I am hoping to provide inspiration for folks who may be struggling, whether that’s with confidence, self-esteem or maybe a career insecurity. We are going to look at transforming mindsets, by obliterating at the root things that you may see as ‘disadvantages’ such as ‘imposter syndrome’ or ‘age’. I hope that folks will be able to leave the session feeling up-lifted, reassured and energized ready for their next individual development piece with confidence.