Overcoming challenges in tech and data analytics: Shilpa's story

In this month’s employee spotlight, Ting Analytics Manager Shilpa Dsouza shares stories from her career in tech and data analytics. Shilpa chats about, despite facing challenges as a woman of color in a male-dominated industry and lacking a traditional tech background, how she persevered and was able to excel in this field.

Tell us a little bit about your role at Ting.

Sure! I'm an Analytics Manager in the Decision Intelligence team (TDI) at Ting. We handle all the data-related tasks and work on projects involving data analytics.

That sounds interesting! How did you end up taking this career path?

After completing my master's in aerospace engineering in Toronto, I faced challenges finding work in that field due to certain restrictions. I then took up business courses and landed my first job in data analytics at the quintessential Canadian brand, Tim Hortons. 

After that, I worked for a start-up and then in a leadership program at Rogers Communication for a year where I first encountered telecom data. That led me to join Ting Mobile, where I worked as a Marketing Analyst. From there, I transitioned into the Ting Internet product team as a Product Manager and currently, I am an Analytics Manager in the newly formed TDI team.

What are some challenges you faced in your career in tech?

Since I was from a core engineering field, the biggest challenge was that I didn't have an official degree or experience in data. But I kept learning and I built my knowledge and confidence with time. 

The other challenge is being a woman of color in tech—there are very few of us so finding the right mentor was another challenge. You need a mentor who you can relate to. I was lucky enough to find one.

Do you have any advice on finding a mentor that works for you?

I think it’s about finding someone who’s been through a similar journey to yours. My suggestion would be to leverage LinkedIn and participate in hackathons or events where you get to meet people.

What excites you about the future of the internet?

I feel like we're just at the cusp of a booming era and it's a good place to be, especially in an internet company. Understanding the potential of the data we have and how we can leverage it in the machine learning AI space is interesting. There's a lot to come!

What do you think sets Ting apart from other providers in the industry?

I think it’s our level of customer service and genuine care for our customers. I've come from a big telecom in Canada and I can tell you straight up that they don't care about their customers as much as we do at Ting— for them the focus is more on revenue and numbers.

What resources do you use to stay informed about trends in the tech industry?

I subscribe to newsletters like "The Pudding" (thepudding.cool), a data visualization and storytelling platform that shares interesting stories about the world through data. I also enjoy podcasts. There’s one by our COO, Michael Koenig—“Between Two COO's” that is fun and helps you understand not just the telecom platform, but also the overall industry.

Additionally, I follow industry leaders and experts on LinkedIn, including my manager, who has 30 years of experience in the field and shares valuable information about data and analytics.

What are some ways you use technology to connect with others?

Since most of my friends and family are across the world, staying connected with them is crucial and technology makes my life easier. I rely on my phone for everything—I’m addicted to it! 

Do you have any advice for people getting started in their careers, specifically in the field of data analysis?

Absolutely! You don't need a traditional background to get into data analysis. If you have an analytical mind, enjoy investigating and analyzing information, and are creative in storytelling with data, then go for it! 

Be open to learning and take feedback positively. Remember, learning is a continuous process, and staying open to new information will benefit you in any career path.

Ting Internet’s employee spotlight

Ting Internet is proud to showcase the talented individuals who make our company great. Each month, we shine a light on an employee who exemplifies our values and commitment to innovation. Stay tuned for the next Ting employee spotlight, where we'll meet another inspiring member of our team!