01:00
Erin Relford Highlight
Always remember to just keep going and don’t look at failure as an actual fail. Look at it as: "I’ve done it. Check the box. I’m trying."
See more interviews like this in:
Paths Across Silicon ValleyAbout Erin
- My fascination with STEM began in fourth grade when I discovered the solar system, sparking my desire to become an aerospace engineer.
- While working as a receptionist in an engineering lab, my attention to detail and curiosity grabbed the attention of engineers who invited me to contribute, marking the beginning of my career in tech.
- Despite being the only woman of color in many spaces, I persisted, using every opportunity to learn and grow within the male-dominated tech industry.
- My commitment to advocating for women in STEM grew as I realized the importance of representation and mentorship for the next generation.
- I transitioned from being an auditor to a compliance professional, and eventually became a privacy engineer at Google—each role was driven by my passion for technology and ethics.
- Networking became a critical tool in my career, allowing me to secure opportunities and gain support from a diverse group of allies.
- Today, I use my role to ensure that privacy is embedded in every project, balancing the demands of tech with the ethical considerations that protect users.