Breaking Barriers, Building Futures: The Women of Oxalis in Tech

Technology has long been considered a male-dominated field, but women have been shaping and driving innovation for decades—often without getting the recognition they deserve. At Oxalis, we know firsthand how essential women are to the tech industry. We’re not just here to take up space—we’re leading, problem-solving, and making a real impact.

This Women’s History Month, we’re taking a moment to celebrate the incredible women at Oxalis. More than just hiring talented women, we’re fostering an environment where they thrive, collaborate, and drive meaningful change. So, I sat down with five of our amazing teammates—Dee Self, Mary Sullivan, Victoria Côté, Sharon Liu, and Blanca Vazquez—to talk about their journeys in tech, the challenges they’ve faced, and what the future holds for women in this industry. Their insights are inspiring, real, and a testament to why the future of tech is brighter with more women at the table.

What sparked your interest in technology? Was there a specific moment or person who influenced your path?

Victoria: “My interest in technology grew from my love of history and art, particularly in museums. These institutions must modernize to maintain interest and funding, often through technology. I would love to be part of those initiatives, helping preserve history while making it more accessible in new ways.”

Mary: “Both of my parents worked in technology, so I was surrounded by it from a young age. Growing up in Silicon Valley, I was always drawn to innovation and new solutions. I knew I wanted to be part of shaping the future of tech.”

Dee: “I didn’t initially consider myself interested in technology. It wasn’t until I noticed how much inefficiency and system issues were slowing down our sales team—and the lack of lasting solutions—that I realized something needed to change. Being a natural problem solver, I decided to step into the world of technology to bring efficiency and resolution to the challenges we faced.”

Sharon: “I stumbled into tech consulting by chance after connecting with recruiters at a career fair. As I learned more about the industry, I became fascinated with solving clients’ challenges and finding technology-driven solutions to make their work easier.”

Blanca: “Anu Bharadwaj, Atlassian’s president, has been a huge inspiration for me. She’s so enthusiastic about sharing updates, introducing new products, and offering valuable insights into the tech world. I admire her passion.”

What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a woman in tech, and how did you overcome them?

Victoria: “I’m fairly new to the tech sector, but my biggest challenge so far has been balancing the need to learn on the fly with getting work done. I can get carried away in the discovery process, so I’ve had to learn when to pause and apply my knowledge.”

Mary: “I sometimes find it difficult to be taken seriously as a young woman in tech. It’s easy to get overpowered by some of the ‘experts’ in this field, so I had to work hard to find my voice and confidence. I’ve learned to assert myself and not let others make me feel small.”

Dee: “The industry where I began my career was undoubtedly male-dominated. Surprisingly, when I transitioned into technology at Nestlé, I experienced the opposite—I found myself surrounded by talented women and inspired by incredible female leaders. That shift showed me what’s possible when companies prioritize inclusivity.”

Sharon: “One of the challenges I’ve faced is having the confidence to speak up, especially in technical discussions. Fortunately, Oxalis has built a culture that encourages open dialogue and values everyone’s input. I’ve become more comfortable asserting my ideas with more practice and the right environment.”

Blanca: “Technology is always evolving, and staying current can be challenging. I’ve found that attending Atlassian webinars and keeping up with industry changes has been a great way to stay informed.”

What advice would you give young women considering a career in technology?

Victoria: “Tech can be whatever you want it to be. It applies everywhere, in every industry. The knowledge and experience you gain in this field will take you far, no matter where your career leads.”

Mary: “Be confident in yourself and know that your opinion is valuable, even if people make you feel small or overlooked.”

Dee: “If you’re passionate about technology, go for it! Don’t let yourself get pigeonholed into tasks that others may assume are ‘better suited’ for a female. Speak up, advocate for yourself, and never hesitate to ask questions or share your ideas. And don’t wait to apply until you meet every qualification—believe in your potential and take the leap.”

Sharon: “Stay curious and find a good mentor. Whether it’s learning a new tool, tackling a different approach, or navigating challenges, curiosity will help you grow. A good mentor can also be a game-changer, offering guidance and encouragement when you need it most.”

Blanca: “Be curious, find your own voice, and don’t be afraid to try new things.”

What are you most proud of in your career so far?

Victoria: “I’m proud of my resilience—continuing to move forward in my pursuit of a career that fulfills me both personally and professionally.”

Mary: “I’m really proud of my transition from marketing into consulting. I didn’t have the traditional background for this role, but I stayed curious and worked hard to learn everything I could from my peers and mentors.”

Dee: “Without a doubt, I’m most proud of the relationships and friendships I’ve built along the way. Seeing the growth in those I’ve had the privilege to lead, coach, or mentor is incredibly rewarding.”

Sharon: “Leading a challenging migration project where I had to navigate timeline constraints, technical hurdles, and product limitations. Despite the obstacles, I built a strong relationship with the client and also mentored an Associate Consultant through her first project. Seeing her confidence grow was just as rewarding as the project’s success.”

Final Thoughts: Breaking Barriers & Building the Future

The women of Oxalis aren’t just thriving in tech—they’re shaping its future. They’ve navigated challenges, carved out space for themselves, and are paying it forward to the next generation.

At Oxalis, we believe that fostering an inclusive and supportive environment is essential to driving meaningful change in the industry. This Women’s Month, we celebrate the resilience, intelligence, and leadership of the women who make Oxalis—and the tech world—better every day.

To all the women in tech: Keep pushing boundaries. Keep speaking up. Keep innovating. The industry is better because of you.

Want to join a team that values diversity and innovation? We’re hiring!

When My World Stopped, Oxalis Stood With Me

Life has a way of throwing curveballs when you least expect them. In September, my world was turned upside down when my mother was unexpectedly hospitalized and diagnosed with terminal cancer. Within three weeks, she was gone. The grief was overwhelming, and the weight of responsibilities felt unbearable. Funeral arrangements, supporting my grieving father, and navigating a mountain of logistical challenges consumed me. My job at Oxalis, a place I truly love, became a distant thought amidst the chaos.

I was stressed to my absolute limits, barely keeping my head above water. Then, my boss, Jon Malanche, called. His words were a lifeline: “Melissa, you have absolutely nothing to worry about here.” He assured me that Oxalis had my back, that policies and procedures took a backseat to my well-being. “The only thing you need to focus on right now is your family,” he said, urging me to take all the time I needed.

“Melissa, you have absolutely nothing to worry about here. The only thing you need to focus on right now is your family.”

In a world where work often feels transactional, Jon’s empathy and support were a beacon of light. His words gave me the space to grieve, to heal, and to be present for my family.

After a few weeks, I felt ready to return to work, but my responsibilities at home were still significant. Once again, Jon’s response was unwavering: “Take all the time you need. We will make it work.” His flexibility and understanding allowed me to navigate a difficult transition without the added pressure of work deadlines.

Oxalis is more than just a workplace; it’s a community of brilliant, driven individuals who are passionate about solving complex problems. It’s a place where individuality is celebrated, and teamwork is paramount. But what truly sets Oxalis apart is its commitment to its employees. The company’s values — leadership, empathy, growth, quality, and curiosity — are not just empty words; they are woven into the fabric of the organization.

My experience has shown me that finding a workplace where you feel valued, supported, and cared for is an invaluable gift. Oxalis has been that and more for me. It’s a place where I can bring my whole self to work, knowing that I am surrounded by colleagues who genuinely care about my well-being.

In an increasingly cynical world, it’s easy to believe that a job is just a paycheck. But I’m here to tell you that it can be so much more. Finding a workplace like Oxalis, a place that embodies empathy, support, and genuine care for its employees, is a rare and precious find. I am eternally grateful for the support and understanding I received during a time of immense personal loss. Oxalis is not just a company; it’s a community, a lifeline, and a testament to the power of human connection in the workplace.

Women in Tech at Oxalis: Why Our Culture Rocks

We all know tech needs more women leaders, and honestly, we’re kind of killing it here at Oxalis. It’s more than just hiring amazing women – it’s about the way we work together, support each other, and make an impact on our clients. That’s our secret sauce.

Meet some of our stars: There’s Mary Sullivan, Sharon Liu, and Emelinda Daly – crushing it as Solutions Consultants and a Technical Specialist. These women aren’t just part of the team; they’re redefining what leadership in tech looks like. So, let’s hear it from them – the challenges, the big wins, and how being at Oxalis lets them make a real difference.

Mary Sullivan

Sharon Liu

Emelinda Daly

The tech world is changing fast. What skills and qualities do you believe are essential for women leaders to cultivate to make a lasting impact?

As a female leader, it’s crucial to speak your mind with both confidence and grace. It’s not always easy in male-dominated workspaces, but it’s how we make our voices heard and drive change.
MARY SULLIVAN, SOLUTIONS CONSULTANT

Sharon: As a woman in the workplace, I find that our innate emotional intelligence and attentive listening skills bring invaluable insights to client interactions. At Oxalis, I’m grateful that my perspective is not only acknowledged but actively incorporated into our solutions, ensuring that we effectively address our clients’ needs and challenges.

Mary: Building on Sharon’s point, being detail-oriented and a quick problem solver are so important. Often, clients come to us knowing an issue exists, but not how to fix it. We jump on calls, answer a barrage of questions, and find solutions collaboratively – all in real time. This fast-paced environment is where women at Oxalis truly shine. Our focus on details and our natural creativity allows us to think on our feet and deliver exceptional solutions under pressure.

Emy: I focus on the technical side, not sales, but great customer service is key. Too often, I overhear tech support blaming customers instead of figuring out the problem. My approach is simple: the customer had an issue, period. It doesn’t matter if the system’s perfect — something went wrong for them. Understanding how they use the system, and where it caused friction, lets us build better experiences for everyone. This way, we focus on solutions, not blame. My goal is always ensuring the customer can get their work done, regardless of who was “at fault.”

How do you approach building and maintaining strong relationships with customers in the tech sector? Are there any strategies or lessons you’ve found to be effective?

Building strong customer relationships is crucial, and video conferencing makes a big difference. Emails and texts lack the personal touch that fosters connection. A face-to-face Zoom meeting at the beginning sets the stage for a more positive experience. Seeing someone’s face allows for better engagement and helps you understand their communication style. This initial investment of time can lead to a smoother, more productive working relationship in the long run.
EMELINDA DALY, TECHNICAL SPECIALIST

Mary: I’ve found that taking a few minutes for genuine connection at the start and end of calls goes a long way. It adds a human touch, which is so important. Building rapport by asking about someone’s family or weekend plans helps forge that personal bond while keeping work goals in sight. Sharing a bit of my own personality – maybe some humor or a quick mention of my hobbies – invites others to do the same. This approach has made my customer relationships and internal collaborations so much stronger.

Emy: Every customer has a unique working style. Some are strictly focused on the task at hand, while others prefer a more collaborative approach. Understanding and adapting to their communication style is key to building a successful working relationship.

Sharon: Mary’s right. Taking a few minutes to genuinely ask ‘How are you doing?’ can make a huge difference in meetings. Clients often have struggles beyond the immediate project, and just listening creates a safe space to share. Sometimes we can even find ways to help! Investing time upfront to truly get to know your clients – especially during onboarding – builds trust and comfort. This leads to smoother communication and better collaboration throughout the whole project.

Why would you encourage women in the technology industry to join the team at Oxalis?

Oxalis empowers you to perform your best on your own terms. I love having the flexibility to be myself and find the work style that really drives my success.
MARY SULLIVAN, SOLUTIONS CONSULTANT

Mary: I would wholeheartedly recommend Oxalis to anyone, regardless of gender. What sets this place apart is how much Oxalis values the whole person. Too many workplaces don’t see the full picture of what you bring, and that’s why so many people end up unhappy in their jobs. Here, I’ve seen the company’s commitment firsthand: flexible schedules, generous leave policies – Oxalis truly supports its employees. That kind of respect makes a world of difference.

Sharon: The flexibility here is amazing. If you have a good idea, they encourage you to share it! Instead of shutting you down, they’re likely to say, “That’s fantastic – go for it!” This feels incredibly empowering, especially as a woman. Other companies I’ve worked for boxed you into a narrow role, which stifled my drive to contribute. At Oxalis, the possibilities feel endless, and I think that sense of potential is something we all value.

Emy: During COVID, I needed to take leave unexpectedly. Jon, our CEO was incredibly supportive. He not only helped me personally, but also championed a change to the company handbook. Now, there’s more flexibility for unpaid leave and sabbaticals — it’s about addressing the whole person’s needs. This supportive culture extends to vacations as well. Unlike previous jobs, I truly feel comfortable disconnecting when I’m out. Everyone respects personal time here, and management leads by example. As Mary said, I could not endorse Oxalis more highly for a place to create a career. They’ve built a fantastic team, and the company culture truly sets them apart.

Share an example of how Oxalis’ culture directly helped you develop a new skill or improve an existing one. How does this impact your work?

The flexibility here is amazing. If you have a good idea, they encourage you to share it! Instead of shutting you down, they’re likely to say, “That’s fantastic – go for it!” This feels incredibly empowering, especially as a woman.
SHARON LIU, SOLUTIONS CONSULTANT

Emy: Oxalis approaches every problem with an open mind. We’re solution-focused, which sometimes means developing entirely new skills along the way. The company supports this learning process, which has been invaluable for my professional growth. In my field, staying ahead means constant adaptation, and Oxalis gives me the space to do that.

Mary: Oxalis has transformed the way I approach consulting — how I present myself, even the words I use with clients. I’ve grown both by watching others and through my own successes and failures. Beyond the technical skills for my daily work, Oxalis fosters an environment where I’m always seeking new ways to improve. They’ve supported me in earning certifications, staying up to date on our technology, and constantly learning. This focus on personal and professional development isn’t something all my friends experience in their workplaces. Oxalis encourages me to expand my network, give back to my university, and pursue opportunities to grow both within and beyond the company.

Sharon: Oxalis is all about possibilities – the flexibility to explore and the support to grow. If I’m interested in something, like project management, I know they’ll help me pursue it. They give me the resources, the encouragement – it’s never about staying in one narrow lane. Being stuck doing the same repetitive tasks limits your growth potential. Oxalis opens possibilities. When you see an opportunity, they say ‘Go for it!’ That’s what’s propelled my professional development the most.

Beyond Women in Tech: How Oxalis Builds an Inclusive Workplace

The success stories of Mary Sullivan, Sharon Liu, and Emelinda Daly at Oxalis highlight the power of an inclusive company culture. Oxalis doesn’t merely talk about female leadership – they create an environment where everyone can thrive. They value confidence, detail-orientation, problem-solving, and empathy – essential skills for women leaders in tech. The focus on personal connection and understanding customer needs reinforces the benefit of a human-centered approach.

Most importantly, Oxalis empowers all employees to reach their potential. Their flexibility, emphasis on professional growth, and support for well-being create an environment where everyone can excel. This inclusive approach isn’t just about helping women succeed – it’s the key to innovation and progress within the tech industry. Oxalis sets a powerful example of how company culture can empower women leaders and shape a more inclusive future for the entire field.

Join our team at Oxalis and make your mark on the tech industry. Apply today and discover how your talent and passion can thrive.

Accelerate Progress: Celebrating Women in the Technology Industry

In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, women are not just participants: they are architects of change, breaking barriers and reshaping the narrative of an industry traditionally dominated by men. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, Oxalis is taking a moment to applaud the significant strides women have made in technology and to recognize the power and potential they bring to the forefront.

From coding to engineering, from data science to cybersecurity, women are excelling in diverse roles and making significant contributions to the advancement of technology. Moreover, women in technology are not simply paving the way for themselves; they are inspiring future generations. What’s truly inspiring is the resilience and power demonstrated by women in the face of longstanding challenges.

The future is bright, with women continuing to make significant strides in technology. By breaking down barriers, they are paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable industry. This International Women’s Day and special month, let’s not only celebrate how far we’ve come but also commit to supporting and empowering women in technology as they continue to shape the future of innovation.

Oxalis: Forging a Gender-Equal Future in IT

Here at Oxalis, we take immense pride in our dedicated team of women who have consistently contributed their expertise and passion over the years, and who have been instrumental in our growth and success.

Here’s what some of our team members had to say:

“I’m proud that the culture that we’re building at Oxalis supports and values the contributions of women. As a member of the leadership team, I know that we set the tone for the company. We want women to feel appreciated, heard, and trusted, and we will always do our best to help foster that culture.” — Mindi Orth – Director of Operations

“From being an intern to now, at Oxalis I’ve always felt very supported by all my managers. They’ve encouraged me to explore my interests and given me opportunities to grow to find where I best fit. I don’t think I could’ve found a better company to support me in the start of my career.” — Sana Dadi – Business Operations Administrator

“At Oxalis, I’ve found something different. It’s a place where ALL opinions are heard and valued. It’s a company that celebrates differences and the contributions of women, because our leadership, and everyone who works here, knows that we are better — as a business and as people — when we all have a voice and when we all matter.” — Melissa Case, Head of Marketing
“I feel truly proud of the women at Oxalis. It is exciting to be part of a multicultural team where every opinion is heard, and you can feel open to contribute.” — Blanca Vázquez, Marketing Specialist
“I am very proud of the impact you can make with Oxalis, both internally and externally. I love walking away from a project closure knowing we have improved the lives of our customers in some way. This success is further celebrated internally when we share common practices and continue the progress on future efforts as a delivery team.” — Mary Sullivan, Consultant
” I love having a team of people who are enthusiastically collaborative, happy to help, and who consistently drive you to be your best. Even though we are all fully remote, I don’t feel distant from my team since they are so welcoming, personable, and ready to hop on a call quick to tackle work. Plus we are constantly sharing cute pet photos, and who doesn’t love that.” — Jamie Biesinger, Sr. Solutions Consultant

Emelinda Daly, a Technical Specialist who joined Oxalis in 2016, has contributed in innumerable ways, not the least of which is conducting initial and ongoing configurations for all Oxalis Ship Repair Service (OSRS) Jira environments. Her involvement began with the initial requirement gathering for Vigor Industrial—a shipyard in the Pacific Northwest—leading to the implementation of Jira and their adoption of Oxalis Advanced Estimation.

Emy also played a key role in creating the integration with the Navy Maintenance Database, a significant selling point for OSRS. Furthermore, Emelinda serves as a systems administrator for our OSRS environments on AWS, Windows, and Azure. She also functions as a systems administrator and technical specialist for Atlassian cloud migrations, including the first major migration for Cambia!

This International Women’s Day let’s not just celebrate how far we’ve come, but commit to supporting, empowering, and investing in women in technology as they continue to shape the future of innovation.

Want to join a team of professionals dedicated to excellence, where the successes of all are celebrated? Oxalis is growing—get in touch today!