Molson Coors dedicates the month of July to women in the tech industry: Meet Allison Spohn
With only 20% of U.S. tech jobs held by women and just more than a quarter of all computing jobs held by women across the globe, Molson Coors is dedicating the month of July to spotlight our women in tech who lead and inspire other women to pursue technology as a career. Meet Allison Spohn, IT development analyst on our Technical Architecture team. Allison recently started her professional career at Molson Coors after obtaining her BSBA in Business Administration and Information Systems (cybersecurity concentration) from Central Michigan University. Her journey at Molson Coors started with an employee referral from a mentor she met during a business competition in college.
Q: Why do you think it's important for more women/women of color to pursue careers in the tech industry?
A: I think it is important because we bring such a different perspective and background to the table. I truly believe that the best team is made up of a diverse group of individuals who all feel empowered to share their thoughts and ideas.
Q: How important is it to have a mentor in order to grow as a leader? Can you describe an important mentor of yours?
A: I think having a mentor can be the key to being successful in your career (either in a technical aspect or personal.) Being new to my career and new to Molson Coors, I was given two mentors within my team. Both individuals have taken me under their wing and embraced me. I’m thankful for each of them, as I believe their support has helped get me off to a good start.
Q: How do you differentiate yourself?
A: As a young professional, I try to differentiate myself by getting involved as much as possible to become well-rounded and expand my network. I do this through volunteering for various tasks and initiatives and asking plenty of questions. My goal is to learn as much as I can from myself and others as I begin to navigate the professional world.
Q: How would you describe your experience so far at Molson Coors?
A: Phenomenal to say the least. I got the opportunity to be on a very knowledgeable team, each of whom has embraced having me there and are happy to help me learn and grow in my role. The company as a whole has a truly authentic people-first culture, in which everyone I come across —no matter their level in the company — is eager to support my journey here both personally and professionally.
Q: What excites you about working in the tech field with Molson Coors?
A: Being a young professional, I am most excited by the opportunities and encouragement to grow. Molson Coors is taking great strides to be more than just a beverage company by investing in tech innovation, and I am excited to be a part of and learn from that journey.
Q: What advice would you give to women entering the tech field?
A: Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. In a male-dominated field, it is easy to feel like the odd one out, but there are so many people willing to help you succeed. Take advantage of that and as many opportunities as you can to learn.