STEM Demystified – Sue Bayes (United Kingdom)

Meet Sue Bayes, born in the United Kingdom, she is an accomplished leader in data analytics and a passionate advocate for empowering individuals through technology. With over two decades of experience, Sue is the Director of Databayes Ltd, where she specialises in providing bespoke business reporting solutions using the Microsoft Platform—Power BI, Excel, Power Apps, Power Automate, and Report Builder. She is a Microsoft Data Platform MVP and holds multiple Microsoft certifications, including Microsoft Certified: Fabric Analytics Engineer Associate, Azure Enterprise Data Analyst Associate, Power BI Data Analyst Associate.

Sue’s journey from teaching business and computing to establishing her own successful consultancy highlights her determination and expertise. She is also an active speaker and community leader, running the Devon and Cornwall Meet Up group for Power BI and speaking regularly at conferences, inspiring others to pursue careers in Technology.

Let’s dive deeper into Sue’s journey and discover more about her inspiring story.

What was your trajectory from school to where you currently are professionally/academically?

After school, I went on to university and had the opportunity to do a placement year at Rank Xerox, which sparked my interest in IT for business. During this time, I also participated in the Year in Industry Programme, which places engineering and science students into industry roles before they attend university (part of https://www.etrust.org.uk/the-year-in-industry). It was through this experience that I discovered WISE (Women in Science and Engineering) and became aware of the gender disparity in these fields.

After spending some time working in the industry, I took a career break to raise my small children. Once they became more independent, I returned to university to retrain as a lecturer, and I then worked teaching business and computing. Eventually, I was able to start my own business and gradually transitioned to working full-time on it.

What motivated you to get into STEM? Did you have a female role model or anyone who inspired you? If so, who?

I didn’t have a specific female role model who inspired me; I was simply drawn to working with computers and business. I have always had a natural aptitude for computing and enjoyed finding ways to make systems smoother and more efficient, so I was naturally inclined towards this field.

What’s your most important professional/academic achievement?

There are a few achievements I’m particularly proud of:

• Running a successful independent business that supports my family as a sole parent.
• Earning my Microsoft Data Platform MVP
• Speaking publicly to be visible and provide inspiration for other women.

Did you face any challenge throughout your professional/academic journey? How did you overcome it?

Absolutely, I’ve faced plenty of challenges, and I’ve often had no choice but to be determined and push through. Having a supportive community, both professionally and personally, has made a significant difference in how much I enjoy life. However, when it comes down to it, you’ve got to confront your fears and just get on with it.

In your opinion, what needs to be done to attract more women into STEM?

This question has been asked so many times and is huge … so many things at all ages of growth for girls / women… language, terminology, opportunities, marketing, gender pay gap, women supporting women, education, awareness of advantage of diversity overall…

What advice would you give to anyone looking into a career in STEM (or those who do not consider it)?

This is a complex issue that has been discussed extensively, and there are many factors to consider at every stage of a girl’s or woman’s development. Things like language, terminology, opportunities, marketing, the gender pay gap, women supporting women, education, and a broader awareness of the benefits of diversity all play a role. It’s a multifaceted challenge that requires a comprehensive approach.

In a fast-changing industry, Sue’s dedication to learning and passion for inspiring others, especially women, makes her a standout role model. From handling the ups and downs of being a solo parent to launching a successful business, Sue’s story highlights how determination and community support can help you overcome any challenge. Whether she’s working, speaking at events, or leading in the Power BI community, Sue shows that anyone who wants it can have a rewarding and impactful career in STEM. Her advice? Go for it, follow what excites you, and make the most of the endless opportunities out there.