Katie Stewart, Project Support Planner, Women in Tech- Part 5

Aaron Wright CADS Managing Director
CADSLife Insight by Aaron Wright Managing Director 05/03/2025

We're celebrating International Women's Day (IWD 2025) 8th March, showcasing the amazing women at CADS. In the fifth installment of this 5 part series we're talking to our Retail Project Support Planner Katie Stewart, about Women in Tech.

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CADS Katie Stewart, International Womens Day 2025

Katie Stewart, Women in Tech, CADS' Retail Planning

After completing a master’s degree in interior architecture design, Katie joined CADS in April 2021 as part of the retail planning team.

Outside of work she enjoys reading fantasy books. Katie also creates fashion and lifestyle content for her online social platforms. She loves getting outdoors and finding new hikes in her area and taking trips to Scotland for outdoor activities like kayaking.

What does International Women’s Day mean to you?

To me, International Women’s Day is an important day to celebrate women globally who are making a difference for future generations of women. It means supporting those women who are in your life and appreciating the immense value they provide to society and in our personal lives.

How does CADS support your training and career choice?

CADS actively supports and trains employees who wish to advance their careers. The company offers ample opportunities for progression within the workstream.

1-1 chats allow us to be open and honest about how we feel in our roles, and they always provide a safe space to be vulnerable if we need support.

Why did you choose to work in the technology industry?

I never expected to enter the tech industry. Being a creative and out-going woman, I was initially interested in pursuing a career within the arts. However, my career path led me into interior design.

The tech industry welcomed me, and I am supported by a lovely team of women.

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In your opinion, why is it important that more women become involved in the technology industry?

Women’s input within the tech industry is vital to help reduce the skills gap between men and women, helping to provide innovative products which work for everyone.

Females involved in tech also helps to close the gender pay gap and overall lead to a more thriving and inclusive society.

What do you think is the biggest issue facing women in your industry?

Many companies overlook women for leadership roles due to various circumstances, often resulting in gender discrimination that hinders career progression.

Employers may let gender bias influence their hiring decisions, especially when they consider women who are family-oriented or planning to have children. This impacts women applying for roles that aren’t as flexible for them or their families.

I never expected to enter the tech industry. Being a creative and out-going woman, I was initially interested in pursuing a career within the arts. However, my career path led me into interior design. The tech industry welcomed me, and I am supported by a lovely team of women.

Katie Stewart Project Support Planner in Retail Planning, CADS

What advice would you give to a woman considering working in the tech industry?

Jump in, be loud, involve your self in everything and be an advocate for other women in your team. Go to important meetings and events, be a team leader, be involved in decisions and most importantly be yourself.

 

Read further articles in this series for International Women's Day 2025

Interview with Retail Planner – Kanok Dennis

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    CADS provides a comprehensive range of data-driven software and services to capture, manage and optimise space, whether you are a retailer, architect, contractor, public sector or commercial client.

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