Women in Tech:  Inna Olshansky’s Trek from Biotech to Managed IT 

We have been featuring some of the awesome women at Klik for our Women in Tech series over the past several weeks.  This week, we highlight Inna Olshansky, the Director of Business Operations at Klik.  

Inna’s journey with Klik Solutions started at its very inception. “I was involved with the company, offering my assistance and expertise whenever possible,“ she shares. “It wasn’t just a job for me; it was a passion project that I found myself drawn to time and time again. This connection to the company’s early stages fostered a sense of ownership and investment in its success.”

In June 2021, Inna decided to officially join Klik Solutions, marking a significant milestone in her career. The opportunity to make a difference was one driving force behind her decision. She also wanted to channel my skills and expertise towards something meaningful, and Klik Solutions provided her the perfect platform to do just that.

She reflects, “The prospect of working for myself was incredibly appealing. Joining Klik Solutions allowed me to take control of my career path and pursue my professional goals on my own terms. The autonomy and flexibility afforded by the company’s structure empowered me to make decisions that aligned with my vision and priorities.” She goes on to say, “My journey with Klik Solutions has been uniquely fulfilling. My contributions to the company’s growth and success have been some of my proudest accomplishments, and I am excited to continue making a positive impact as part of this dynamic and forward-thinking team.”

Her leap into the field of technology was an unexpected yet transformative path, shaped by both adversity and the unwavering support of loved ones. She completed her Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences and furthered my education with a Master’s in Applied Molecular Biology.  This initially led her into the world of biotechnology. “I found fulfillment in conducting research for a biotech company, leveraging my knowledge to contribute to advancements in science.”  

The trajectory of her career took an unexpected turn following the tragic events of 9/11. Funding cuts and eventual layoffs at my workplace suddenly thrust her into uncertainty, and she found herself grappling with the harsh reality of unemployment.

“The support and encouragement of my boyfriend, now husband Arthur Olshanksy,  provided a guiding light. Recognizing the shifting landscape of employment opportunities, he suggested I explore the realm of Information Technology (IT) while navigating the job market. It was a suggestion born out of practicality and foresight, urging me to adapt and diversify my skill set.”

Inna enrolled in IT classes to broaden her knowledge base, and her passion was sparked. She obtained certifications in A+ and Microsoft, equipping her with the necessary tools to start her career in the tech industry. “These certifications opened doors that I hadn’t previously considered, leading to my first job in IT,“ Inna adds. “From there, I immersed myself in this new domain, eager to learn and grow with each opportunity that came my way.”  She is truly grateful for this turn of events that led her into the field of technology. 

Being a woman in the tech industry has brought Inna a unique set of perks and opportunities that she deeply values. One of the most rewarding aspects is being able to indulge in my natural curiosity and technical inclination. Inna looks back, “From a young age, I’ve always been drawn to exploring new gadgets and understanding how they work. This innate curiosity has been a driving force behind my passion for technology.” This sense of accomplishment not only boosts her confidence but also fuels her enthusiasm for tackling new challenges.

Another perk of being a woman in tech is the opportunity to be at the forefront of technological advancements. The tech industry is constantly evolving, and being part of it allows her to stay ahead of the curve and contribute to groundbreaking innovations. 

Being a woman in tech empowers Inna to also challenge traditional gender roles and demonstrate that women can excel in technical fields. Inna has had the opportunity to break some of these stereotypes along the way, particularly in the earlier stages of her career.  When she first entered the IT industry in the early 2000s, it was relatively uncommon to see women represented in technical roles. “This lack of gender diversity often created an environment where I felt like I had to work harder to prove myself and gain recognition for my skills and contributions.”

She also encountered instances of subtle gender biases and stereotypes that she had to navigate. She shares, “There were times when my ideas or expertise were questioned simply because of my gender. Overcoming these biases required not only demonstrating my technical proficiency but also advocating for myself and asserting my worth in the workplace.”

A lack of female role models and mentors in the tech industry was also a factor in Inna’s career. Without many women in leadership positions to look up to, it was sometimes difficult to envision her own path to success. Supportive colleagues and mentors, both male and female, provided guidance and encouragement along the way.

Over the years, she has witnessed a significant shift in the work culture. There is now a greater recognition of the importance of diversity and inclusion in the tech industry, and efforts are being made to address gender disparities and create more opportunities for women. “Personally, my primary focus has always been on remaining up-to-date and competitive in my field by continuously expanding my knowledge and expertise,” she adds. By staying proactive and adaptable, she’s been able to navigate and overcome the challenges encountered as a woman in tech, and she remains committed to paving the way for future generations of women in the industry.

For Inna, this field offers unparalleled opportunities for hands-on exploration of changing technologies – like artificial intelligence, biotechnology, cybersecurity, and more, furthering her passion and curiosity. “Each day presents new challenges and possibilities. It’s a continuous journey of learning, creativity, and impact, making it an endlessly exciting and rewarding field!”

Inna notes several important and exciting aspects of working in the field of technology.  First, it is important to recognize that women possess a unique skill set that is incredibly valuable in the IT industry. Traits such as patience, attention to detail, and a unique perspective are not only relevant but essential in this field. These qualities enable women to approach problems differently, think creatively, and contribute innovative solutions to complex technical challenges.

It’s also important to dispel the misconception that IT is limited to fixing computers or coding alone. While these are certainly important aspects of the field, technology is far more diverse and broad-ranging, offering job opportunities across various specialties. From cybersecurity and data analysis to UX design and project management, there are countless paths for women to explore and excel in within the tech industry. Embracing this diversity of roles not only allows women to leverage their unique skills and interests but also contributes to a more inclusive and dynamic tech ecosystem overall.

Inna ends with this key thought, “Being a woman in the tech industry has provided me with a platform to pursue my passion and interests while making meaningful contributions to the field. It’s a privilege to be part of a dynamic and fast-paced industry that offers endless opportunities for growth and innovation. I look forward to continuing to inspire and empower other women to pursue their dreams in tech.”