At Verne, we’re gearing up to attend Datacloud Global Congress, as the data center industry’s flagship event celebrates its 20th year. I’m especially excited that the 2025 line-up features more than 30 women speakers – an impressive group representing every part of the data center ecosystem, including operators, industry associations, solution providers, and investors.
Having worked in the data center industry for nearly as long, it’s remarkable to see how much progress has been made. Today, women are visible across all levels of seniority and in every type of role. As someone who studied English Literature, I hadn’t initially considered a career in tech. But when the opportunity arose to work in the US data center sector, I jumped at the chance, drawn to the intellectual rigour and fast-paced environment of an industry defined and driven by constant innovation. My first line manager and the company’s VP of Engineering were both women; an unusual occurrence at the time. We were very much in the minority, reflecting a wider industry trend: only a handful of women worked in the sector, and even fewer held senior leadership roles.
Although overt discrimination wasn’t widespread, unconscious bias shaped much of the industry’s culture. Networking and client entertainment often revolved around golf outings or sporting events. While fun for some, these weren’t universally appealing or accessible, especially for women juggling other commitments. Hiring and promotion decisions were typically made by senior leaders — mostly men — who often favoured candidates that mirrored their own qualities and experiences. As a woman, you had to excel in every aspect of your role just to advance, which sometimes fostered a culture of unhealthy competitiveness.
In 2010, I relocated to Europe, first to Germany, then the UK. While the industry here remains male-dominated, I was struck by how many more women had advanced into leadership roles. Cultural shifts and changing times have helped close the gender gap, at least from my perspective.
A major catalyst for this change has been the growth of professional networks for women in the industry. In Cannes this year, I’ll be attending the Women @ Datacloud 2025 event, jointly organised by the Women Tech Forum (of which Verne is proud to be a ‘Game Changer’ sponsor), and iMasons Women. I’m also proud to be a member of the Women’s Tech Forum EMEA Committee since 2023. These forums provide spaces for women to connect — both professionally and socially — fostering a culture of mentorship, support, and collaboration. Unlike the past, when women may have felt the need to compete with one another to get ahead, today’s environment encourages us to lift each other up.
Twenty years ago, the industry wasn’t especially welcoming to women. But today, I’m proud to work in a dynamic and increasingly diverse sector that’s embraced change. I’m also proud to work for a company that not only recognises and celebrates the contributions of its female employees but also fosters a truly inclusive environment – one where every voice is valued, and women are empowered to lead and thrive.
Join us at the Women @ Datacloud 2025 event in Cannes to connect, share experiences, and celebrate the growing community of women shaping the future of our industry.
