Anne-Liz Jeukeng – Sierra Nevada Corp: Professional Tennis Player Turned Software Engineer

Wrap up in the shortest sentence possible what your role means.

At Sierra Nevada Corp, I write code to interface with imagining systems and automate various processes.

What is the interesting / challenging part of your work?

The most interesting and challenging part of my work is having a problem that I do not know how to solve immediately, but then figuring out the solution. Though it is initially difficult, the feeling of figuring it out makes it all worthwhile.

What attracted you to choose a STEM field?

I was attracted to STEM because of my father primarily because he was a Nuclear Engineer. He valued math and science a lot so I learned about complex topics at an early age. I also really loved the idea of being able to create something new and exciting with code.

Navigating my career path as a woman in tech is difficult because you don’t see many woman that you can go to for career advice or mentorship.

I am trying to change this by volunteering, when I can, to support young girls that have an interest in STEM

What is your biggest achievement that you are most proud of? How do you track and express your achievements in the workplace and beyond?

My biggest achievement that I’m most proud of would definitely be playing in the U.S. Open in Flushing Meadows, NY in 2011 when I was 15 years old. It was my dream from a very early age.

My motto is: Be better than you were yesterday

I try my best to learn something new each and everyday or improve on the things that I already know. In terms of expressing my achievements, I like to keep them to myself for the most part. I feel like my work should be able to speak for itself.

Who are your mentors or role models that helped you either directly or indirectly?

My main mentor is my former team lead. Though I have since left the company, he has been extremely supportive and continues to provide me with career advice.

My main role model is Michelle Obama because of everything that she stands for. She is strong, intelligent Black woman so I really admire her for that.

How do you think women can be game-changers in time of crisis?

Women have unique perspectives often times. We have the ability to do anything if we set our minds to and it’s extremely powerful.

What are you doing to ensure you continue to grow and develop as a leader? Are there any technology resources that you would recommend?

I believe that learning is the most important thing that a leader can do to grow and develop. To stay up to date with current technology, I subscribe to newsletters that feature all the latest tech. This is an easy way to stay informed.

It’s your day off. What do you do to relax?

I love to exercise. So on my day off of work I like to play tennis, run, or do something outside.

What advice would you give to your 21 year old self?

You know so much more than you think! Keep your head up!

What makes you RARE?

I’m a former professional tennis player turned software engineer. I don’t think that many people can say that. I’m very thankful to have had experienced life in two very different professions!

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Want to know more about Anne-Liz? Connect with her on LinkedIn