Precisely Women in Technology: Meet Mahima

According to the Women in Tech Network, women make up about 35 percent of the tech workforce. While this number has grown over the years, it still indicates that technology is a male-dominated industry. Precisely is committed to creating a supportive environment for women to build their careers so that this number can continue growing. As a result, the Precisely Women in Technology (PWIT) network was developed. PWIT brings women together from different areas of the organization to collaborate, learn, and support one another. Each month, a woman from the network is featured to share more about her experience navigating the technology industry. Continue reading to learn more about Mahima Singla, Principal Software Engineer, and her experience as a woman in tech over the last 12 years.

Why did you choose to pursue a career in technology?

My journey into technology was deeply influenced by my father, a Computer Science professor. His passion for the field, coupled with his discipline and innovative teaching methods, sparked my initial interest in software development. Growing up surrounded by his books and hearing his insights about the transformative power of technology laid the foundation for my own aspirations.

When I began studying programming in college, I was captivated by the profound impact software can have on solving complex problems and driving innovation. The ability to create solutions that address current needs while anticipating future challenges inspired me to dive deeper into the field.

Each day of mine is not completed unless I write some lines of code to solve a problem statement and I can proudly say that is food for my soul. This fascination evolved into a dedicated passion for designing systems and architectures that not only meet today’s demands but also pave the way for future advancements. It’s this drive to blend creativity with technical excellence that has guided me to where I am today in my career.

Who has been your greatest professional mentor? What’s one thing you have learned from them?

Early in my career, I had few great mentors who were part of a team I worked with and that was a game changer for me. One of the biggest lessons I learned from them is the power of embracing curiosity and asking questions. They always reminded me that it’s okay not to have all the answers and that exploring new ideas and perspectives is what drives innovation. This mindset has really helped me push my boundaries and remain excited about tackling new challenges in my career.

For instance, when I hit a roadblock or faced a challenging project, they’d say, “think about it from a different angle,” or “what if you tried this approach?” It was a refreshing shift from just sticking to the usual methods. Being curious and open to experimentation has made my work more enjoyable and has pushed me to continually learn and grow. It’s also helped me tackle problems with a fresh perspective and come up with creative solutions.

What’s the biggest risk you took in your career? What was the reward?

After spending 10 years on the same project, the biggest risk I took was switching to a new, challenging role within the company. It meant leaving behind a comfortable position and diving into a job with more responsibilities and different technical skills.

This change really pushed me out of my comfort zone. I had to learn new things and adapt quickly while working closely with a new team. But the risk paid off big time. I got to boost my technical skills, especially in cloud technology, and reignited my passion for my work.

Plus, working with people from different parts of the world gave me fresh perspectives and helped me appreciate the variety of perspectives that people bring to the table. Overall, it was a great move for my career and personal growth.

As a woman, what challenges have you faced in the technology industry? How have you overcome them?

One major hurdle I faced recently in my career was encountering skepticism about my technical skills, simply because I’m a woman. I tackled this by focusing on delivering solid results and staying confident in my abilities, which helped shift those perceptions over time.
Additionally, being one of the few women in certain teams sometimes made it harder to find mentors with similar experiences. To overcome this, I became actively involved in the Women in Technology program at Precisely. This program has been incredibly valuable, providing me with guidance and support on how to navigate various situations and enhance my professional journey. This program boosted my morale and led me to have unforgettable experiences.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? How do you apply it to your personal and professional life?

The best piece of advice I’ve received is: “seek to understand before being understood.” This advice addresses the heart of effective communication and problem-solving.

In a tech environment, where projects and goals are often intricate and collaborative, truly understanding the needs, perspectives, and concerns of colleagues and stakeholders can lead to more effective and innovative solutions. By prioritizing empathy and active listening, I can better grasp the underlying issues, which helps me address them more accurately and helps foster a more cohesive team dynamic. I remember early in my career, I made quick decisions without gathering all the details, which resulted in some mistakes. Slowing down and using this approach not only enhances project outcomes but also strengthens professional relationships. Applying this advice in my personal life has also transformed how I engage with others. By focusing on understanding other points of view before expressing my own, I’m able to build more meaningful connections. This practice has also been crucial in resolving conflicts and navigating challenging conversations, as it allows for more empathetic and constructive dialogue.

What’s one piece of advice you’d offer to younger women entering the industry?

My advice to young women entering the technology industry is to embrace and celebrate your unique perspective. Diversity in tech is crucial for innovation, and your perspective is an asset. Don’t be afraid to share your ideas and assert your voice—your contributions matter and can drive meaningful change.

Invest in continuous learning and development. The tech industry evolves rapidly and staying curious and adaptable will keep you ahead. Most importantly, have confidence in your abilities. You belong in this industry, and your insights and talents will make a significant impact. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and remember that persistence and self-belief are key to your success.

As a successful woman in technology, what’s one thing you do to pay it forward and advocate for other women in the field?

One way that I advocate for other women in technology is by actively mentoring female professionals who are facing various challenges. I regularly connect with college juniors, professors, and peers—mainly women—offering my time to provide career guidance and help them navigate their paths in the industry. I find it incredibly rewarding to motivate and encourage women to speak up and share their ideas with confidence.

I also work to be a visible advocate for equitable practices in my workplace, striving to create an environment where women can truly excel. For example, I mentored a female professional who, with the confidence she gained through our sessions, became one of the top performers in her team. Seeing her succeed has been one of the most gratifying aspects of my mentoring journey and reinforces my commitment to supporting others. My commitment to supporting women in technology is deeply inspired by the incredible women leaders at Precisely.

By focusing on both personal mentorship and broader advocacy, I aim to contribute to a more inclusive industry where women have the resources, support, and opportunities they need to succeed.

Learn more about us on our Careers and Culture page.