Professional Bio
I am a passionate Technical Architect with a strong focus on cloud technologies and a proven track record of designing and implementing scalable, secure, and high-performing solutions across diverse projects and industries. Leveraging a combination of technical expertise and strategic vision, I work to bridge the gap between complex technical requirements and business goals. My day to day involves architecting and deploying cloud-native solutions leveraging platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud. Collaborating with cross-functional teams to design cost-effective, scalable, and secure architectures tailored to unique business needs. Driving cloud migrations, optimising workloads, and ensuring compliance with industry standards.

Every project is an opportunity to solve challenging problems, leverage the latest cloud technologies, and deliver impactful solutions that drive business success. I’m driven by the dynamic nature of the tech world and the chance to innovate in a rapidly evolving landscape.

What inspired you to pursue a career in architecture, and how has your journey been so far?

I had a previous career in personal training (specifically training women who were pre and post natal). This gave me great communication skills and the ability to be a self starter. I have always been able to envision the end product and have a birds eye view which is celebrated in architecture. Finally, I knew I wanted a family and understood the challenges of some of the clients I had trained throughout pregnancy, I wanted to be in a job role which was ever expanded and gave me the opportunity to have a work life balance. My journey so far has been insightful- I have achieved AWS CCP, BCS Foundation Certificate in Digital Solutions Development 2020, Azure- 900, Azure 104 and soon to have achieved AWS SAA. 

What skills and traits do you think make a great architect?
Communication, networking and being able to make things make sense to the least technical people you interact with. 

How do you navigate leadership, influence, and impact as a woman or ally in architecture?

I have learnt that not all leadership is 'good leadership' I am observant of the real changes made by said leaders vs the ideas/ discussions. I consider myself a leader and have enacting change through empowering people to be the change THEY would like to see

What’s one myth about being a woman in architecture that you’d like to debunk?
Architecture/ tech in general comes more naturally to men. Women are just as if not more capable than men, it is just better/ more marketed to men than women. 

What skills, tech, or certifications are you investing in this year, and why?
AWS SAA,  a number of my projects require AWS services, this certification has given me real insight which I can use on my projects 

How can leaders and organizations build a more inclusive pipeline for women entering and growing in architecture?
Have more women who are for women at the top. Measure the 'for-ness' of the applicant prior to employing them. A woman who advocates for minimal work life balance and doesn't show empathy for another women who is pregnant/ on her period would be an example of a woman with low 'for-ness' 

What future trends in architecture and technology should architects prepare for to stay ahead in the industry?

AI and as a result potentially a shift FROM cloud back to on-prem

Connect with Maya on LinkedIn