​

We’re delighted to present a new episode of our interview series, as part of the Tech Leaders Collective; a candid conversation featuring Dalgis, Engineering Manager at MyPingPad, and hosted by Katelin from iO Associates.

This series explores the diverse journeys that lead women into technology and technical leadership roles, with an emphasis on authentic voices, lived experiences, and building fairer paths for the next generation.

In this uplifting episode, iO's Katelin sits down with Dalgis, who shares her inspiring story of navigating three countries and three cultures on her route into tech management, starting as a young girl growing up in Cuba with two programmer parents. Dalgis reflects on her early curiosity, dismantling computers as a child, and how those formative experiences shaped her ambitions.  She openly discusses her initial dream of becoming a doctor, how she pivoted from academia to industry, and the pivotal moments that cemented her love for hands-on technical work.

​

Listeners will gain an honest look into her first steps into commercial software engineering, the challenges of working with niche programming languages like C, and the lifelong friendships forged along the way. Dalgis unpacks the stark gender gap in hiring, the realities of navigating career progression frameworks (and helping to build them from scratch when they didn’t exist), and the frustration of being overlooked for leadership despite equal credentials.

The discussion touches on issues of equity, tokenism, and representation highlighting the necessity for clear, fair advancement pathways for women in tech. Dalgis shares revealing stories about cultural bias, microaggressions, and the double standards women leaders often face, including the subtle pressures around appearance, self-presentation at interviews, and the burden of being seen as “spicy” or “bossy.”

Despite these obstacles, Dalgis’s resilience shines through. She credits her mother, a trailblazing automation engineer in Cuba, as her biggest inspiration, and encourages women to demand what they deserve, embrace their strengths, and ask for more whether that’s a pay rise, a promotion, or simply recognition. The conversation closes with practical advice about tackling imposter syndrome, the importance of building networks and mentorships, and the joy of claiming your space as a woman in tech.

This episode is essential listening for anyone passionate about inclusion, career growth, and the subtle, powerful changes that happen when women advocate for themselves and each other. Dalgis’s journey is a testament to curiosity, courage, and the enduring impact of representation reminding us all that progress is built, not given.

Inspired to take your own next step or seeking support for your career in tech? Connect with iO Associates today. to discover mentorships, leadership opportunities, and a supportive community.

Watch the full interview above and join us in celebrating more women making their mark in technology.

​