Meet Maria. She has been working for Ingram Micro the Netherlands for over two and a half years. She is the Shift lead for our Inbound team and based in our warehouse in Tilburg.

Who is Maria?
Maria is a dedicated and hardworking woman who always wants to get the best out of herself and has a high sense of responsibility. She is originally from Colombia but raised in Spain and in 2019 she decided to move to the Netherlands all by herself, without knowing anybody in this country, and start a new professional chapter.

How did your journey in the IT industry start?
It all happened by coincidence. I had been contacted for a position in the stocking team at Ingram Micro. At that time, I did not know anything about Ingram Micro. Later I found out that it is the world’s biggest IT distributor. I studied Tourism which does not relate with IT.

During my selection interview, it became clear how important employees and their growth and learning opportunities are for Ingram Micro. The position also triggered me because you can develop yourself and get the chance to learn everything. Words became facts. After 8 months I developed myself into a team coordinator and since last summer I have been Shift lead. In a short time of two and a half years I have developed enormously and without a degree or previous IT work experience. I'm proud of myself and it feels great to have the trust of management, that they challenge me every time and give me all these opportunities. I love that the changing world of IT has allowed me to develop quickly.

How do you feel being a woman and working at Ingram Micro?
I feel good and confident at Ingram Micro. My managers have shown their trust in me. I feel I can be myself; it is an open environment where you are seen for your actions and potential. It feels good to work for an employer that is always open to listen to other point of views. I do not experience that there is an obstacle, because I am a woman. I am treated equally, and I love how Ingram Micro tries to think with me instead of for me.

How important is International Women's Day for you and why?
International Women's Day is important to me because it is a great time to reflect and evaluate what milestones we have achieved and what we still need to work on. This day ensures that we do not forget, overlook, or underestimate any achievement, challenge or issue related to the theme of equality.

From an early age my big brother taught me to always believe, choose and fight for myself. A man or anyone else cannot determine your worth. You must take control of your own life. But it helps to surround yourself with people who inspire you to get more out of yourself (family/ work).

What tip and/or suggestion would you give to another woman who is thinking of joining the IT industry?

The sky is not the limit, it is just the beginning!