Graduate Profile :: Carla Bradfield

I graduated from Southern Cross University's Bachelor of Applied Science - Computing (Technical) course in 1994.

Since graduating I have worked for two companies. In my first position I was employed as a Graduate programmer on an IBM AS/400 MidRange system. At this time I had never heard of an AS/400 or the native programming language RPG (Report Program Generator). I underwent three months of on-the-job training where I applied the basic programming concepts, including structured programming, and data structures, etc. that I had learned at SCU.

After approx. 18 months it became obvious that I would need to move on from my first position to progress further and continue learning. I was, unfortunately, working for a company which, at the time, had a culture that did not encourage a great deal of promotion or reward for women.

I accepted a position with a publishing company in Sydney - Prentice Hall Australia - a name I knew as the company that had published the majority of my university textbooks - I only wish that I had had my staff discount while studying!

After a year of working for PHA, I have been promoted and now have the position of Programmer/Analyst. I work in a wonderful environment, where I am regarded as a team member - being a woman has in no way disadvantaged my career.

I am confident that, as long as I maintain and improve my performance, I have many opportunities for promotion, especially as our department grows. I have no concerns about the culture of this company in regard to females in responsible positions, as females occupy many senior positions.

I find my profession challenging and rewarding and recommend it to any woman who enjoys solving problems, and providing viable, useful solutions.

Updated: 11 December 2012