Changing careers into Data Science as a working mum: through the CFGdegree
Data Scientist Helena discusses how she switched careers from academia to tech through the CFGdegree
Data Scientist and 2023-2024 CFG Ambassador Helena Blackmore, shares her career switching story from Academia to Data Science through the CFGdegree. She also touches on her experience studying the CFGdegree alongside her full-time job and parenting responsibilities, with advice for other working parents who want to pursue a career in tech. To learn more about her story, connect with Helena on LinkedIn!
SIX QUICK FIRE QUESTIONS!
What is your favourite coding language?
Boringly Python (but I have a soft spot for tidyverse library in R)
What is your choice of beverage whilst coding?
Japanese sencha (green tea) – caffeinated, but unlike coffee doesn’t make me anxious and jittery. And diet coke if I am really tired
Desk set up – RGB, minimal, or my aesthetic?
Organised chaos – cables, papers, post-its and mugs
If you had to only use one for life: Laptop or PC?
Laptop (am I allowed more screens?)
Are you most productive in the morning or evening/night?
Generally morning
What do you listen to whilst you code and where? Spotify, radio, vinyl or fave CD?
I love listening to soundscapes of nature sounds – like heavy rain, waterfalls or windy forest
Hi Helena, thank you for taking part in this article! Please tell us more about who you are, your tech experience, and what you do professionally.
I am a woman who wears many hats: I am a data scientist, a mother, a sister, and a CFG instructor and a 2023-2024 Ambassador. In my day-to-day work, I deal with data—sourcing and evaluating different datasets, creating data models, and building data pipelines. I am fortunate to be challenged on most days.
You have a PhD in Psychology and previously thought of pursuing academia! Can you please share how you got into tech and what were your influences along the way?
I love research, but I wanted my work to make a difference—quickly. In academia, it can take years (at best) for your work to have any impact. In tech, things move much faster, and if you’re lucky, you can change things, procedures, and ideas. And of course, there’s much more job stability and earning potential in tech compared to academia.
My first step was the CFGdegree, which not only helped me upskill but also secured my first job in tech.
Did you encounter any challenges or uncertainties whilst transitioning into a career in tech? How did you overcome them?
Absolutely! Although I was highly educated and qualified, I had little formal tech education and experience, so it was extremely difficult to convince employers and recruiters that I knew what I was doing. My first step was the CFGdegree, which not only helped me upskill but also secured my first job in tech.
Congratulations on completing the Summer ‘22 Data CFGdegree! Could you share what drew you to apply to this specific specialisation?
I experimented with different areas of tech but found that I loved data the most. With a background in statistics and extensive data analysis experience from my PhD, my passion for data—visualization, using data, and applying statistical tools to generate insights—was clear. Pursuing a career in data was a natural choice.
One of the best things about the CFGdegree was the chance to connect with like-minded women. It wasn’t just about learning to code or managing projects; it was about being part of a community.
Could you share your overall experiences studying CFGdegree, and how you balanced family responsibilities alongside the demands of the course?
It was hard and exhausting. Though it was only about 16 weeks, so there was always the end in sight, so it was easy to keep motivated. I was reminding myself that the long-term benefits for my career and my family would outweigh the temporary hardship (lack of time and focus). And, of course, I was very fortunate I had other people (friends and family) to lean on during that time.
It has been two years since you completed the CFGdegree! Can you recall what it was like settling into your first tech role?
It was very daunting. Especially once I got a glimpse of all of the things I had not known yet. One of the best things about the CFGdegree was the chance to connect with like-minded women. It wasn’t just about learning to code or managing projects; it was about being part of a community. The friendships and networks I built there have been so helpful in my first tech role. Having people who get what you’re going through, and who can share tips and support, really made a difference.
Fortunately, tech is a field where this flexibility is possible—provided you work for the right employer.
Could you share some insights into how you manage work-life balance as a mother working in the tech field?
I believe that working for a company that offers flexible working arrangements and trusts its employees is crucial. Adhering to rigid working hours or commuting to an office every day can be nearly impossible. I’m very fortunate that most of the time, I can work remotely and adjust my hours as needed. I can log off to do the school run or prepare food, then log in again later to continue working, even after the ‘magic 5 o’clock end of the day.’ Fortunately, tech is a field where this flexibility is possible—provided you work for the right employer.
What do you think organisations can do to better support working parents in tech?
Organisations and managers need to trust their employees. Parents, especially mothers, are typically excellent at managing their time. Companies can support parents in tech by offering flexible working hours, remote work options, and understanding the unique challenges that come with balancing work and family life. Providing resources like parental leave, childcare support, and a culture that values work-life balance can make a big difference. When employees feel supported, they are more productive, loyal, and motivated to contribute to the company’s success.
What advice would you give to other working mothers, parents, or caregivers who would like to transition into tech?
I think working for a company with flexible hours is crucial, but consistency and continuous learning are key. For parents aspiring to advance in their tech careers while balancing family commitments, my advice is to prioritize time management and stay committed to your goals. Don’t neglect personal development—keep updating your skills and knowledge. Finding a supportive work environment can make a huge difference, allowing you to excel both at work and at home.
