Shamshad Akhter, Solita
“There’s no single way to be an engineer or a researcher. Curiosity takes you far. ”
What have you studied and what influenced this choice back in the day?
I completed my master’s degree in Computing Science majoring in Software, Web, and Cloud at Tampere University. My interest in this field started in 8th grade, sparked by a 3D video game called Unreal Tournament. I was fascinated by how smoothly the characters moved in a virtual world, which led me to learn how games are made. That’s when I discovered the power of programming and graphics behind the scenes.
That moment made me realize it wasn’t just entertainment—this “magic” of code had the power to improve our daily lives. That early curiosity grew into a passion for Computer Science and Technology, leading me to pursue advanced studies. At that time, opportunities in this area were limited in my home country, so I chose to study abroad crossing both geographical and intellectual borders to embrace new challenges and learning opportunities.
How did you end up being in your current position?
I worked as a Full Stack Developer for several years, gaining experience with a wide range of technologies and development frameworks. During my Master’s studies, I had the opportunity to participate in an academic–industry collaboration project. The project portfolios included several technologies I was familiar with—except for one that stood out: a low-code gaming application proposed by Solita Oy. Drawn by the opportunity to take on new challenges and engage in innovative, research-driven work, I decided to step out of my comfort zone and explore something different. That experience introduced me to the world of low-code development, where I could leverage my full stack background while focusing more on solving real-world problems and delivering value quickly. That collaboration eventually led me to my current role at Solita, where I continue to work in the low-code space and contribute to meaningful, impactful projects.
What is the best thing about your job?
The best part of my job is the variety and creativity it offers. I work across different areas—backend, data modeling, integration, and UI design—which keeps things dynamic. I enjoy solving complex problems in efficient and innovative ways and there is a real sense of fulfillment in developing such solutions. I am also fortunate to collaborate with talented colleagues from diverse backgrounds, which brings fresh perspectives. Another aspect I truly value is the inclusive and flexible work culture at Solita. As a woman and a mother, having a safe and supportive environment makes a significant difference. It allows me to bring my whole self to work and thrive both professionally and personally.
What have been the highlights and key lessons of your career?
One of the major highlights of my career has been crossing geographical boundaries (leaving my home country) to pursue my passion for technology. It challenged me personally, emotionally, mentally, and academically. Yet, it opened up life-changing opportunities and broadened my perspective. Another was stepping out of my comfort zone to explore low-code platforms, which taught me the value of adaptability and staying open to emerging technologies. A powerful lesson I have learned is that, depending on who you are or where you come from (underrepresented backgrounds), you may face additional barriers or feel the pressure and need to prove yourself more than others. While that can be tough, instead of letting that hold me back, I have used those moments as motivation—to grow, learn, and keep moving forward to achieve the next milestone
What do you expect from the future?
My passion for coding drives me to stay rooted in the world of technology. I don’t see myself pursuing anything outside this field—My goal is to continue sharpening my coding skills and, over time, to explore and master emerging technologies that define the future. I want to stay ahead of the curve, adapt to trends, and contribute meaningfully to the ever-evolving tech landscape.
For whom this is a suitable career option?
Someone who is genuinely curious about technology and enjoys problem-solving is well-suited for this field. Many people succeed in this field simply by discovering a passion for it—regardless of their academic background. Logical thinking, continuous learning, and adaptability are key traits. The tech world evolves rapidly, so being open to new tools and ideas is essential—especially in roles like mine, where stepping outside your comfort zone is part of the job.
What message would you like to send to a young person pondering their career?
To all young people considering their future careers: believe in yourself and your potential. Don’t shy away from fields that seem challenging or unfamiliar—especially in technology and science, where your ideas and talents are needed. Remember, every woman engineer today once stood where you are now—curious, uncertain, and hopeful. With persistence and courage, you can break barriers, challenge stereotypes, and help build a more inclusive and innovative world. Your voice matters—go after your dreams boldly!