Melissa Hale
Power Platform Developer @ Mace
Liverpool, United Kingdom
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Melissa Hale is a Power Platform Developer who transitioned from pursuing a PhD in venom and parasite research to finding a more fulfilling career and work-life balance in tech. With a strong background in SharePoint, Power Automate and Canvas Apps, Melissa has transformed business practices in both start ups and large firms. Beyond her professional role, she dedicates her expertise to the charity "Collaboration for Kids," enhancing their operations through the Power Platform. Based in Liverpool, United Kingdom, Melissa is enthusiastic about learning and growing within the Power Platform community. Melissa is dedicated to leveraging ethical AI and responsible technology to create meaningful and efficient solutions for organisations.
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From Scientist to Developer: Embracing Change and Finding Balance
Abstract:
Join me as I share my journey from a researcher in a venom lab in Denmark to a software engineer. As a woman in tech, I faced unique challenges and mental health struggles, particularly during my transition amid the pandemic. This talk highlights resilience, self-discovery, and the importance of pursuing your passions—even when the path takes unexpected turns.
Background:
At the start of the pandemic, I was thriving in a venom research lab in Denmark. After years of hard work, I finally secured a funded PhD position (back in the UK), but the joy was short-lived. Upon returning to the UK, I found myself isolated in a dim basement lab, surrounded only by parasites and the relentless pressure of my dragon-like supervisor, who chipped away at my self-worth daily. I hit rock bottom, grappling with feelings of despair.
2 years later, I decided to take control of my life. Encouraged by my friends , I enrolled in a six-month bootcamp that transformed me into a (semi) competent junior developer. I was thrilled to receive a job offer before the bootcamp even ended, thrusting me into the fast-paced world of low-code consultancy.
Eventually, I landed a remote role that not only provided me with a healthy work-life balance but also allowed me the time to give back. Now, I actively volunteer as a SharePoint specialist for a charity, finding fulfilment in helping others while continuing to grow in my tech career.
Key Insights:
1. Navigating Transitions: Overcoming self-doubt and building confidence are crucial when pivoting careers. I’ll share practical strategies to embrace change.
2. Mental Health Matters: Mental health is vital. I’ll discuss coping strategies and the importance of open dialogue within the tech community.
3. Creating Inclusive Spaces: Witnessing supportive colleagues in my career journey highlighted how organizations can foster inclusivity for women and neurodiverse individuals.
4. Giving Back: In my current remote role, I prioritize work-life balance while volunteering as a SharePoint specialist. This experience underscores the joy of community engagement.
Conclusion:
By sharing my story, I aim to inspire others—especially women and those facing mental health challenges—to pursue careers in tech. Together, we can cultivate an inclusive environment that celebrates diverse experiences.
Takeaways:
• Embrace change and build resilience in your career journey.
• Prioritize mental health and foster open conversations.
• Support inclusivity and mentorship in tech.
• Find fulfilment through community engagement and giving back.
Let’s spark a conversation about resilience, mental health, and the power of community in tech!
Power Platform for Good!
What: This talk gives the attendees insights into how someone like me, with a scientific non-technical background ended up as a developer for a consulting company and a volunteer for a charity – “Collaboration for Kids”. Expect to learn how I used Power Platform to transform this charity’s digital space in a meaningful way, and how you can collaborate with your local charities of NGOs with something you already know! I will show you how I created a useful intranet and some process automations, with a strong focus on promoting healthier choices for children and adults. All powered by Microsoft Technology – Business Applications and Modern Workplace.
Why: Non-profit organisations are facing increasing pressure to optimise their operations and invest most of their time in supporting the cause. By leveraging technology, this goal can be more easily achieved, addressing challenges in communication, manual workloads, and other areas. If you want to learn how to go above and beyond with your local charity by using Power Platform, this is the talk for you!
How: Expect engaging storytelling, live demos, practical cases of Power Automate and SharePoint working together, tips on how to work with diverse Stakeholders and much more!
Takeaways:
• Concrete - and cool - examples of applying Power Platform for non-profit organisations.
• Strategies for effective collaboration and user adoption.
• Inspiration to go back home, bring your tech skills to the table, and help your local charity.
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