Beyond technical skills: What really matters in a tech career

SheCanCode's Spilling The T

On this episode of the SheCanCode podcast, we welcome Jenny Briant, Academy Operations Director at Ten10, to unpack why closing the gender pay gap still looks like a half‑century project—and what we can do today to speed things up.

Drawing on her front‑row seat at Ten10’s renowned Academy, Jenny explains how alternative entry routes into tech can unlock talent that traditional pipelines miss. We explore:

• Breaking in without the “right” CV – Jenny’s non‑linear journey into tech leadership and why diverse backgrounds drive better teams.
• AI with a conscience – the hidden biases she’s spotted in algorithmic hiring tools and why Ten10 insists on human oversight.
• Representation at the top – how gender‑balanced leadership teams build fairer AI models and reduce workplace inequality.
• Mentorship for Gen Z – practical ways sponsors can boost confidence, pay transparency, and career momentum for women entering tech.
• Skills that outlast code – why adaptability, communication, and problem‑solving now rank alongside Python in Jenny’s playbook.

Tune in for straight‑talking insights and actionable advice on building a truly inclusive tech future.

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Chapters

1. Introduction to Women in Tech Discussion (00:00:00)

2. Jenny's Journey into Tech Without Technical Background (00:03:40)

3. Alternative Entry Points Strengthening Tech Teams (00:06:14)

4. AI in Recruitment: Human Touch vs Automation (00:12:12)

5. Addressing the Gender Pay Gap Transparently (00:16:50)

6. Beyond Technical: Power Skills in Tech Careers (00:25:48)

7. Mentoring Early Career Women in Tech (00:32:27)

8. Looking Ahead: Responsible AI in Hiring (00:41:20)