In this special live-recorded episode of The Machine, Rob O’Connor hosts a panel discussion following a viewing of the CodeGirl documentary at SETU Waterford. The event brought together a group of secondary school students to explore pathways into computing and to hear real-life stories from women working and studying in the field.

Rob is joined by Dr Indrakshi Dey (Walton Institute), Ava Neary (Applied Computing student and cybersecurity intern), and Amanda Freeman-Gater (Assistant Head of the Computing & Mathematics Department at SETU). Together they reflect on themes raised in the film — teamwork, creativity, and breaking gender stereotypes — while also sharing their own journeys into technology, including the challenges of maths anxiety, imposter syndrome, and changing career paths.

Whether you’re considering a future in computing or supporting someone who is, this episode offers honest, insightful, and encouraging perspectives on what it means to build a career in tech.

Useful links:

• Computing Courses at SETU: https://www.setu.ie/computing
• Walton Institute: https://www.waltoninstitute.ie
• CodeGirl documentary: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5086438/
• Dr. Indrakshi Dey: https://waltoninstitute.ie/about/staff/dr-indrakshi-dey
• Amanda Freeman-Gater: https://www.setu.ie/staff/amanda-freeman-gater
• Rob O’Connor: https://www.setu.ie/staff/robert-oconnor