Meet Adora Nwodo, a software engineering powerhouse who's been in the game for seven years and counting. Currently, at Microsoft Mesh, she's working on a metaverse project that's as intriguing as it sounds. But that's not all. Adora is also the founder of NexaScale, a non-profit that connects people with opportunities to kickstart and scale their tech careers. She's a digital creator, a public speaker, and the author of two cloud engineering books.
Adora's tech and cloud journey began with a childhood fascination for computers, a passion that led her to study Computer Science and pursue a career in Software Engineering. She's a problem solver at heart, thriving on the challenges of complex software engineering projects.
Her accomplishments are many, but she holds a special place in her heart for her two cloud engineering books, which have significantly impacted the tech community. Adora is all about contributing to technology and empowering others through her work.
In her words, "Do you. The world will adjust." So, buckle up and prepare for an insightful journey into the world of Adora Nwodo, a woman who's truly making waves in the tech industry.
Q) Can you share a bit about your background and your current role?
I’ve been a software engineer professionally for 7 years. Currently, I work at Microsoft Mesh - an exciting metaverse project.
I also founded a nonprofit called NexaScale, where we help people start and scale their tech careers by connecting them with the opportunities that allow them to build.
Beyond these I run some tech communities, I’m a digital creator, a public speaker, and an author of two cloud engineering books.
Q) How did you first become interested in technology, and what led you to your current role?
I could turn my ideas into reality through code.
I've been fascinated by technology ever since I got my hands on a computer at a young age. That passion guided me to study Computer Science and pursue a career in Software Engineering.
My early experiences involved creating movie screenplays and business cards on my computer, igniting my curiosity about the endless possibilities of technology. As I interacted with computers more, I explored programming and realized I could turn my ideas into reality through code.
I first interned in 2016 as a software developer at an advertising agency. After six months of internship, I stayed there as a part-time employee throughout my final year of university. Immediately after I graduated, I spent 18 months there and got an offer to work at Microsoft.
Q) What main challenges have you faced in your career, and how have you overcome them?
I'm always ready to ask for help and learn from people as well.
Finding a balance between work and personal life is a challenge I face because I'm involved in many things. To tackle this challenge head-on, I've developed strategies that help me make the most of my time.
By setting clear boundaries and carving out dedicated moments for personal activities and relaxation, I ensure I recharge and take care of my overall well-being. I also delegate tasks a lot, which has helped me prevent burnout.
Another issue I face is with taking on those challenging software engineering projects, but I love them regardless because I thrive on challenges. They push me to grow and learn in exciting ways.
I approach these projects proactively, breaking them down into manageable tasks and setting achievable milestones. I'm always ready to ask for help and learn from people as well. I believe people are the most significant resources, and I'm constantly tapping into my professional network.
Q) Who or what has been the most significant influence or support in your tech journey?
(...) confidence to grow, seize exciting opportunities, and fearlessly pursue my goals in the ever-evolving world of technology.
Most significant? I’d say, my dad. He bought my first computer. But even beyond that, I’ve been surrounded by amazing people that constantly support and inspire me. I also draw inspiration from industry leaders and read many books to learn about these people and how they got better and how I can be better too.
I also want to add that I cannot express enough gratitude for the incredible network of friends, family, and mentors who have been by my side every step of the way. Their unwavering support has given me the confidence to grow, seize exciting opportunities, and fearlessly pursue my goals in the ever-evolving world of technology.
Q) How have you seen diversity and inclusion evolve in the tech industry throughout your career?
We’re not entirely there yet, but it’s nice to see that work is being done to fill in the gap.
Regarding gender diversity, I’m seeing more women in tech fields than before. Companies are actively implementing initiatives to empower women, such as mentorship programs and inclusive hiring practices while elevating women leaders' visibility in the field.
These efforts foster innovation and create a more inclusive and equitable tech landscape that benefits everyone involved. We’re not entirely there yet, but it’s nice to see that work is being done to fill in the gap.
Q) How do you manage the work-life balance in the tech industry?
Prioritizing self-care is a non-negotiable for me.
When it comes to managing work-life balance in the tech industry, I've found that setting clear boundaries is vital. I consciously try to establish dedicated work hours and personal time, ensuring I don't blur the lines. Prioritizing self-care is a non-negotiable for me—I schedule my vacations, I love to drink red wine, I love bubble baths, and I love the spa.
My calendar is also my lifesaver. I use it to plan my tasks, block off specific times for essential activities, and stay organized. It helps me maintain balance and ensure time for work and personal commitments.
Q) What skills do you believe are most important in today's tech world?
You're going to be interacting with many people, and it's best if everyone works and communicates well with each other
I believe adaptability and continuous learning are so important. Technology is constantly
changing, and learning and adapting to new tools and trends quickly is essential.
Problem-solving skills are also necessary—I enjoy tackling complex challenges and finding innovative solutions.
Effective communication and teamwork skills are essential, too, because people hardly ever work in isolation - you're going to be interacting with many people, and it's best if everyone works and communicates well with each other.
Q) Can you share a project or accomplishment you consider the most significant in your career?
I've accomplished a lot in my career, but this accomplishment holds a special place in my heart: writing my two cloud engineering books (Cloud Engineering for Beginners and Beginning Azure DevOps).
These books result from endless hours of research, dedication, and a burning desire to share knowledge. I'm so grateful for my impact on the tech community by offering valuable insights and guidance to aspiring cloud engineers. I couldn't be prouder of this achievement, and I feel thankful for the chance to empower others through my writing.
Q) What are your future goals, and where do you see the tech industry heading in the next few years?
Artificial intelligence will play a significant role in making work more efficient and streamlining processes.
I'm excited about my future goals, which revolve around making more contributions to
technology. Keep an eye out for some significant announcements soon. About the tech industry, there are a couple of trends shaping the next few years.
Artificial intelligence will play a significant role in making work more efficient and streamlining processes.
Hybrid and remote work models will also be more popular, bringing flexibility and opening up endless possibilities for collaboration. It's an exciting time, and I'm stoked to see how these trends unfold.
Q) What advice would you give to other women considering a career in tech?
Do you. The world will adjust. Also, make sure you’re networking, adding value, learning and
Q) Let's continue the flow... who would you like to read on the Lovelace Series?
Ruth Ikegah.
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