The latest installment in our Q&A series with women leaders in data features Shannon Hughes, enterprise data architecture manager at ExxonMobil’s Central Data Office. (Read our previous Q&A here.)

Shannon Hughes became fascinated with data and technology as a kid, inspired by her dad – a technical data analyst for the U.S. Air Force. She now has over 25 years of experience in the IT field, currently managing data architecture practices and aligning them with data principles and policies at ExxonMobil’s Central Data Office. Shannon is a Certified Data Management Professional (CDMP Master) and was recently honored as one of CDO Magazine’s Global Data Power Women of 2024. We asked her about her career path and where she sees the future of women in data management. You can follow her on LinkedIn.

What inspired you to choose a career in data and become a leader in the field?

I began my career as a system administrator, supporting server hardware and software. Over time, I transitioned to database administration and system design, but my role remained closely tied to server software. I was drawn to the idea of designing rather than just supporting software and systems, but I faced resistance when I expressed interest in an architecture role.

My breakthrough came when I led a software development team, where a significant part of our work involved writing detailed, complex queries to extract value from data. I discovered a passion for delving into data and synthesizing it to provide meaningful insights. Taking a risk, I left the infrastructure side to pursue a business-facing data consulting role. This allowed me to apply data management practices such as data architecture, data modeling, data quality management, and data governance to help businesses derive value from their data.

Favorite role model or mentor who encouraged you to succeed?

My biggest supporter and the person who inspired me to pursue a career in technology was my dad. He spent 20 years in the U.S. Air Force as a technical data analyst and later transitioned to the private sector as a product manager at a technology company that was developing its own computing hardware and operating systems in the early days of computing. I vividly remember him bringing home prototypes of these early computers, which I got to learn on. Booting up with a floppy disk and experimenting with command lines and scripting were some of my earliest experiences with technology.

Influenced by these experiences, I chose to study computer science and management information systems, eventually starting a career in technology and data. Throughout my journey, my dad listened to all my challenges and provided invaluable advice and guidance.

Best advice you’d give to other women aspiring to work in data and become data leaders?

Stay curious and never stop learning. Listen actively and be open to others’ ideas. Remember, you do not have to know everything. Surround yourself with a supportive group of people who complement your skill set and are not afraid to challenge you and help you grow.

Where do you see the future of women in data?

I am incredibly excited about the formation of women in data groups and look forward to discovering more ways to participate and connect with amazing women in the field. Throughout my career, I have faced significant challenges and biases as a woman in tech, but these experiences have only strengthened my resolve and passion for advocacy.

The creation of a supportive community where women in data and their allies can connect is a crucial step toward creating a more inclusive environment. By empowering each other and inspiring the next generation of women data leaders, we can work toward a future where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. The progress we have made so far is just the beginning, and I am optimistic about the promising developments and opportunities that lie ahead for women in data.

Did you know? We are producing our second Women in Data Management and Governance program at December’s DGIQ East. Sign up for our Women in Data Management and Governance newsletter for the latest updates.