Despite not being a developer, Daniela Butcu has spent a decade shaping the tech industry. As a product manager, she bridges creativity and technology, working closely with diverse teams. Yet, she has faced challenges—often being the only woman in the room, needing to prove her technical credibility.

Daniela’s passion for inclusion extends beyond her role. She co-leads an employee resource group, advocating for intersectional equality in the workplace. For her, gender diversity isn’t just about hiring—it’s about ensuring women, people of color, and LGBTQIA+ individuals have equal opportunities to grow and lead.

She has seen progress. More women are entering tech, and allyship is increasing. Male colleagues are stepping up to mentor and support underrepresented groups. Yet, leadership remains male-dominated, and hiring biases persist. Daniela believes more female leaders are needed to inspire the next generation.

Her journey—from aspiring coder to marketing strategist in tech—reflects broader struggles women face in STEM. Through advocacy and mentorship, she’s committed to making the industry more inclusive, ensuring diverse voices are heard and valued.