Ada Lovelace Day 2024: An Interview with Laura Heels

What was the starting point for your interest in Computer Science?

As a dyslexic learner I struggled at school and found that the only subject I really enjoyed was Computing (what was then ICT). I moved to a college where I could focus my studies on Computing and became especially interested in web technologies and computer architectures. It wasn’t until I had graduated and was teaching [undergraduates] that I developed my interest in making learning inclusive for everyone, no matter their background.

How did you begin your career in Computing?

After finishing my MComp in Computer Science at Newcastle, I was offered a newly created role as Transition Officer in the School of Computing. The role involved supporting Computer Science students with any problems they had, from assisting with practicals and study skills to helping first year students who were struggling with adjusting going from a school environment to university. The role greatly increased student experience and was then replicated across the university.

In 2016 I was offered a part time PhD position with Dr Marie Devlin, researching Gender and Computer Science education and am now a lecturer specialising in Computer Science Education. So, I really owe the start of my career to Marie Devlin seeing my potential and taking a chance on me.

Do you have any career highlights so far?

I particularly enjoy working with students who have struggled over the course of their degree, for various reasons, but go on to graduate and build their own fantastic careers.

Who is your role model in Computing, and why?

Rather than having one person I tend to look at people's attributes and will choose that to model. I have had a lot of support from colleagues within the School of Computing and I have tried to learn from their experiences and skills.

Are there any obstacles you have faced while establishing a career in Computer Science because of your gender, and what helped you overcome these challenges?

Computer Science is a male-dominated field, there’s no denying that. There are times when I’ve been discouraged from pursuing my goals within Computer Science or outright told to not do something before, partly because of my gender but also because of my dyslexia and my educational background.

Although this knocked my confidence (and probably led to imposter syndrome), with the support of key colleagues within the school I became more determined that I would and could achieve what I wanted.

What advice would you give to women and people of minority genders who are interested in a career in Computing?

If you are interested in problem solving and helping people, Computer Science has a theme for you. Whether you specialise in Computer Science Education or Cyber Physical Systems, the common end user is a person.

Above all, Computing is for everyone! You might be in a room where you are the minority, but you are not alone in the world. There is lots of support and a real desire to increase diversity in Computer Science.

For more information on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in the School of Computing, please email comp.edi@ncl.ac.uk.