Amy is an AI Engineer at IBM whose career began far outside computer science. After completing a degree in Biological Sciences, she joined the Teach First programme, earning QTS in 2021 and a Level 7 PGDE in 2023 while teaching full‑time. Working with pupils in disadvantaged communities strengthened her communication, leadership, and mentoring skills and deepened her commitment to widening access to STEM. As the curriculum shifted toward computer science, subjects she had never studied, she made the bold decision to change careers.
She joined IBM’s graduate scheme in 2023 and entered a platform engineering role despite having written code only once during university. Through determination and rapid upskilling, she learned new tools and engineering practices at pace, consistently exceeding expectations and contributing to solutions that supported multi‑million‑pound client deals.
Her transition came with challenges, including imposter syndrome and the pressure of catching up with peers from traditional CS backgrounds. A mentor’s advice—“teach yourself the way you would teach a child”—reshaped her approach to learning and helped her build confidence and resilience.
Now specialising in AI engineering, she leads client MVPs, works directly with enterprise teams, and focuses on designing practical, high‑impact AI solutions. A key milestone was leading the integration of IBM’s Docling technology into a client project, creating reusable assets later adopted across UK banking engagements and developing hands‑on labs to help teams upskill quickly.
She volunteered with TechSheCan, supporting a group of girls in designing an assistive technology prototype to help a young woman regain the ability to take photographs. Her journey reflects resilience, continuous learning, and a belief that talent can come from any background. She now speaks about career transitions, AI engineering, and representation in tech to inspire more women to see themselves in this Industry.