I am a software engineer working at NatWest within the Bank of API’s. My day job involves writing, testing and deploying code in the form of API’s which make it easier, quicker and better for our customers to access our banking services. I studied Physics at University and towards the end of my degree I discovered coding. I quickly realised it was very useful and meant I could run code over and over again instead of handwriting out lots of equations! This peaked my interest in the world of coding and software engineering. I then joined the NatWest software engineering graduate programme in 2020 which was a fantastic opportunity to work in a few different areas of the bank gaining lots of experience and knowledge and led me to my current role. I’m hugely passionate about promoting diversity in technology especially amongst young girls and women and as such support a number of initiatives like the charity Tech She Can and the NatWest Women in Technology Network.
First career aspiration as a child?
I found a childhood notebook where I had filled in the question ‘what do you want to be when you grow up’ with hairdresser or ballet dancer! To this day I very much love creative and artistic things and although my day job doesn’t directly come across this way I do think I can bring my creative side out especially when solving problems and communicating.
What would you tell your teenage self?
I’d tell teenage Abbie to have more self belief, be kinder to herself and tell her she is capable of more than she knows! I would say it’s ok to make mistakes and that the most growth comes from being uncomfortable.
Does your mum know what your career is?
Kind of… she knows I use code! My parents are very proud and think I can solve every technology related problem!
Favourite place in the world?
Probably Walt Disney World in Florida – they do say its the happiest place on earth! I have lots of great memories visiting there with family and friends.
What attracted you to a career in computing / tech?
Tech is exciting, it’s something that is constantly evolving and has an impact on every aspect of our lives. I was attracted to the idea of being able to help people through technology, I also love the satisfaction that comes with solving problems.