Introducing Karen Polly, Director of Consulting Delivery at CGI
I’m Karen Polly, a Director responsible for Test Services for Infrastructure. I focus on ensuring the delivery of high-quality testing services that meet our clients' evolving needs and support their strategic objectives. I support a large team covering manual and automated testing, engineering and architecture. I also help develop and run sessions for our Early Careers CGI Partners working in Testing. I have a career spanning 40 years in the IT industry and have now been at CGI for just over 10 years. Throughout my career, I’ve been passionate about leveraging technology to solve complex problems and drive innovation.
What inspired you to pursue a career in STEM?
I have always had an interest in science and technology. I went to an all-girls school which, I am sure, made a difference as it was much easier to choose the sciences and not be in the minority. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to study from the STEM subjects, but my father was in a job that involved working with computers and he seemed to enjoy it, so I thought “Why not? So far, I haven’t found anything else that I might have enjoyed more so, it must have been a good choice!”. I took one of the first computer O Levels and found it fascinating, so I went on to study Maths and Computer Science at University.
Tell us about your career journey
My first IT job was as a programmer for local government and again the disparity in those entering the IT sector was obvious as I was the only female in the department. Throughout my career I’ve had various roles from Web Developer to Test Analyst. I’ve been at the cutting edge, working on the first IBM desktops and Windows when it was a brand new software product. While my children were young I worked as an IT Technician and Teaching Assistant at a primary school, before returning to full time work. Looking for a change and more opportunities brought me to CGI where I started as a Lead Tester, before moving to a new project as Test Manager and progressing to Director level.
I’m sure the various roles I have had throughout my career have enabled me to rise to the challenges that the continuing drive towards newer and different tools and technologies can bring. It’s interesting to note that I get just as curious and excited about each new development now as I did over 40 years ago.
What’s your favourite thing about being a leader in STEM?
I like being part of the strategic process as we navigate our way through each new development and fostering collaboration between different CGI areas. I enjoy leading a team, helping them to grow their network and supporting them in their careers. It is good to see more women coming into the industry and I hope that, as a female leader, I can show them that they can do it too. Representation matters, and having women in leadership positions in STEM not only inspires but also catalyses change towards more inclusive work environments, and so makes it easier for each new generation.
Have you faced any challenges as a woman in STEM and how did you overcome them?
Being at an all-girls secondary school minimised some of the challenges as there was no gender bias that could impact my decisions. Going to a mixed school sixth form made me aware of how few girls were choosing STEM subjects. I was very much in the minority, being the only girl in both Maths and Computer Science. University wasn't much better and in my first job, I didn’t interact with any other women the entire time I was there! The challenge for me was not having the support and guidance from other women in STEM and as I definitely suffered from Imposter Syndrome (I still do!) it would have been really helpful to have had someone I could talk to who would understand. It felt very lonely at times which is why I feel it is so important to reach out and support others now. I have joined women’s networks which can provide a platform for sharing experiences and fostering a sense of belonging.
How has CGI supported you as a woman in STEM?
CGI has supported me in a variety of ways:
- Learning and Development: Training has always been available when requested. Being able to join the CGI Leadership for Growth program taught me a lot about myself and gave me the confidence to go for the promotion to Director.
- Mentoring: Having a mentoring program that all CGI partners can sign up to (as either a mentor, a mentee or both) is really beneficial. I have learnt from those that have mentored me and hopefully have helped those that I have mentored.
- Women's Network: CGI have an active community with lots going on. This helps all of us by fostering inclusion and empowering women across the organisation.
- Health and Wellbeing: The emphasis on health and wellbeing at CGI, through various programs and resources, has helped me maintain a healthy work-life balance and stay focused on my career goals.
What advice would you give to young women interested in a career in STEM?
My main advice would be to go for it! - don't let anyone tell you that you can't or shouldn't be doing what you want to do. Have the confidence in your abilities and remember that whatever role you are doing, it is because you earned it. You can be the leading lights for the next generation of young women in STEM.
Every day is a school day, no matter how experienced you are in your role. Make the most of any training and mentoring and be open to new opportunities and experiences. Don't be afraid to ask questions or seek help when needed; collaboration and learning from others are crucial in STEM.
Join communities like the Women's Network as they can help and support, giving young women a chance to engage with others at all stages of their careers.
Lastly, keep pushing boundaries and challenging stereotypes, as your success will inspire others to break barriers and pursue their dreams in STEM fields.
