#ShineOn Member Sarah Thompson
Name
Sarah Thompson
Role
Solution Architect
Company
Sight Machine
Shine & Rise member since:
2020
Why did you join Shine & Rise?
I joined Shine & Rise because I wanted to connect with other local women in the tech and startup spaces.
How does Shine & Rise add value to your life?
I love being able to connect with other women and non-binary folks in tech. As a woman in tech myself, I am passionate about promoting women and breaking down gender barriers in this industry. I also participated in a recent round of the Shine & Rise book club, and we had some fantastic discussions - I really looked forward to our weekly (virtual) gatherings!
What most fills up your cup?
Spending time with my friends & family and also having some quiet time to myself are critical elements for my self-care. Also, the beach is my happy place, so I try to get in as much beach time as possible.
What feels like a work in progress for you right now? (Question borrowed from Sophia bush’s podcast: Work In progress)
Right now, I'm really struggling with work-life integration. As a mid-career working mom, I never quite feel that I've achieved that balance and am constantly working on hitting that sweet spot (if it even exists!). Like many women, I also struggle with imposter syndrome and I constantly remind myself that I'm more capable than that little voice says.
One thing people always come to you for is...
Advice on things like best practices and how to make processes more efficient. I don't have time to mess around, so I'm constantly thinking about how to make my work (and my life!) more efficient.
What does diversity in the tech/startup ecosystem mean to you?
Diversity means seeing a wide range of people of different races, genders, sexual orientation, and ages in all levels of an organization - not just individual contributors. Diversity means supporting businesses that are founded, owned, and led by marginalized folks. Diversity is good for business and for individual growth, and it's the best way to ensure that our society succeeds.
What's the best last article/blog post/speech/book (provide link) you read/heard, and what was its impact on you?
This summer, for the Shine & Rise book club, we read How Women Rise by Sally Helgesen and Marshall Goldsmith. I didn't agree with everything in the book, but it was really thought-provoking. There are definitely some interesting and helpful points in the book, and I thought it made an excellent choice for a book club - I actually found our discussions more valuable than the book itself! https://www.howwomenrise.com/
What's one piece of advice or what are some words of wisdom you'd like to share with people who are thinking of a career in tech and/or joining a startup?
Working for a startup is a lot of work, but can also be so rewarding. I've worked for large companies and very small ones. For me, working for a startup brings challenges and learning opportunities that just aren't available at large companies. However, since working at a startup can be overwhelming, it's important to build self-care into your routine to avoid burnout. As long as you do that, working at a startup can really help further your career and personal growth.
How can people get in touch with you (LinkedIn, DM on S&R, etc.)?
LinkedIn, DM on S&R, or email me at sethompson41@gmail.com
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