FiT Feature: Rachel Dwyer
Name: Rachel Dwyer
Location: San Francisco, CA
Age or Age Range: 34
Title: Founder, Filipinx in Tech / Project Manager
Company: Fishbowl by Glassdoor
How long have you been in tech? 4 years
What made you decide to switch to a career in tech?
I was taking a UX Design course and people in my cohort were going to really cool networking events at large tech companies and talking about Latinas in tech org, Afro Tech, etc and so I looked up events happening for Filipinos and couldn’t find any. I found asian in tech events, but didn’t really feel represented in that group - so I decided to try and hold an event and see what happens. The first event (which was in person in SF) had about 50 people show up and so I realized there was a need for this community.
What advice do you have for people who want to attend a bootcamp?
Do your research and figure out what type of learner you are. Some bootcamps focus more on the concepts, while others focus on hands on learning. Also talk to as many people as possible who took the program and find out who your instructor will be before you commit.
Do you feel represented in Tech?
Surprisingly at my company, there are a good amount of Filipinos for a small team, but otherwise no. I remember at my first tech company with a staff of about 300, there were 3 Filipinos including me. Overall, I think Filipinos get lumped into the Asian box but our specific experiences aren’t included or represented with that.
Do you feel supported by the Filipinx community?
Sometimes, honestly I’m just trying to build a community and provide resources and connections while figuring out my own Filipino identity. It hasn’t been that easy and I put. a lot of pressure on myself, but luckily there has been some great volunteers, but overall I think I’m also bad at asking people for support.
What advice do you have for anyone looking to break into tech?
It’s not always easy and can come with a ton of rejection. I would just be persistent, network, ask questions and know it’s okay to get 100 no’s as long as you keep going and working so you get the yes that matters!
How can people reach you and what for?
To get involved, to connect, questions, anything really. They can email me at Filipinxintech@gmail.com or connect with me on Linkedin.