It’s Women’s History Month and we’re celebrating the women who are powering Dutchie’s rise with a series of Q&A posts. Check out the other posts here.
What do you work on at Dutchie?
I am a Software Engineer I on the front-end team, based in Seattle, WA. I primarily work on the admin side of the Dutchie platform. It's extremely motivating working on the tools that aim to make the day-to-day work for dispensary employees easier and help their business grow.
What brought you to Dutchie?
I had been following Dutchie for a while, and seeing the progress being made throughout the industry here was really inspiring to me. It became a goal of mine to join and contribute to the team behind that momentum.
What's something about your Dutchie experience that's different from other places you've worked?
How deeply the mission and values are rooted within the company. The culture at Dutchie has been truly empowering and I'm constantly impressed with how each team member is genuinely valued. I've truly never been so proud to be on a team with such talented and dedicated individuals. The level of support from peers and leadership make the work environment so welcoming and allows creativity to flourish. I'm honestly thankful every day to be at Dutchie, and to have the opportunity to grow and learn from so many great people.
Do you have a favorite Dutchie memory or event?
Definitely the announcement of the mergers/acquisitions and our Series C round. Working a Dutchie, there is an undeniable energy throughout the company that makes you feel like you're a part of something bigger, with everyone working towards the end goal of making the mission come true across the world. Since my very first interview I had with Dutchie, it's been evident that the people here have poured their hearts into this product and company. Hearing that momentous news made me so happy and proud of the people I get to work with every day and it made me realize that positive energy isn't just within the walls of the company anymore, but radiating throughout the industry as well.
What would you tell your younger self when you first started your career?
Learning everything at once is impossible. Be kind and be patient with yourself as you begin this journey. There will be moments you feel invincible, and there will be moments that seem shadowed by failure. It's all normal and a part of this experience, and you are not alone. Celebrate the wins, even when they seem small, and use the failures to keep moving forward. Surround yourself with people who inspire you, share your ideas, step away when you need to and everything else will unfold as it's meant to be.
What advice would you give to women trying to break into the industry?
Firstly, don't underestimate the value of having a strong support system, especially with people that can relate to and understand what you're going through. Finding a community of other women where you can all support each other can be extremely powerful. Being able to get advice and give advice to others can help bring strength and confidence in navigating the industry. Also, remain true to yourself. Sometimes it will seem like there are a lot of reasons (internal and external) to doubt yourself. But for each of those doubts, there are a million more reasons to keep on this journey you've started. Continue to seek out opportunities and take on new challenges. Speak your mind, be involved, and don't let your identity waver — your perspective matters and can make a difference.
Learn about other amazing women at Dutchie!
