, Sep 24, 2020
The CRN Women in Channel Awards take place every year to shine a light on the IT leaders, influencers, exceptional employees and role models who will inspire the next generation. We’re extremely proud to have five of our wonderful women in the shortlist. Meet Tracy, who is nominated for the Technical Employee of the Year award.
Name: Tracy Venter
Job title: Managed Services Director
Nominated for: Technical Employee of the Year
What’s your favourite part of the job?
This is undoubtedly the interaction I have with my team and service partners. We are facing change head on and this is providing opportunity for colleagues in particular to step out of their comfort zone and achieve good things. Acknowledging and celebrating the ‘small wins’ is important.
What did you want to be when you were young?
I had so many ideas as to what I would like to be. These ranged from nurse to teacher, ballet dancer to trapeze artist! None of which came to fruition, but most of my career has been related to service delivery in some shape or form.
What is your best WFH tip?
It’s important to establish a routine, and exercise should be part of this. It’s very easy to work longer hours and its vital that we give ourselves the best possible chance of adapting to what seems to be the ‘new normal’.
What’s something interesting you have done during the COVID-19 lockdown?
During the initial stages of lockdown, I had more time to focus on my hobby of jewellery making and have been able to explore different techniques. Focusing on something creative has been a good distraction for me.
How have you acted as a role model to other women in business? And what do you think would encourage more women into technical roles?
I think it’s important to recognise that women don’t have to adopt behaviours that are deemed to be normal in a male dominated workplace. Acting with integrity is always a focus of mine and I think I have been able to demonstrate that women bring diversity to the workplace by offering a different perspective and making good use of our soft skills. When I speak with women about my role, I try to emphasise that our industry is dynamic and so many new opportunities are provided as a result of this. Change is the one thing that is constant in our world and this provides a great opportunity to embrace the challenge and learn new things.
Congratulations to all of the very worthy shortlisted nominees who have worked hard to be in a position where they are considered for such a prestigious award. We’re looking forward to this year’s virtual awards ceremony on 14-15 October, where we’ll find out who will be lifting the trophy!