From teacher to Business Development Manager AI: Eline Maris is the Rising Tech Star of the Year 2024

Eline captivated the jury with her personal and heartfelt story. From a young age, she was fascinated by technology. She taught herself to code and spent countless hours exploring the virtual world of Neopets. Despite her enthusiasm, she was labeled ‘nerdy’ in school. Feeling pressure to fit in, she set aside her passion for technology.

After an initial career as a teacher, she rediscovered her passion at IT company Cegeka, where she started as an IT Recruiter. Although she achieved great results, Eline was seeking more contact with the technological side. After the Young Potential Boostcamp, she made the step from Recruiter to Business Development Manager.

"The Young Potential Boostcamp in 2023 was a huge turning point for me. It gave me the extra push to be brave and approach the Sales Manager of Data & AI at Cegeka. I wanted to make the move to the technology and business side. But I didn't have any technical background. Could I do this?" says Eline Maris.

"To my surprise, I was able to prove myself almost immediately. The switch came with a steep learning curve. I had to adapt quickly and immerse myself in the world of AI. It was challenging, but my passion for technology and the support of my team at Cegeka made it possible. I truly believe that with determination and the right support, any challenge can be turned into an opportunity.  And I owe that to the role models in my life. That's why I'm so proud of this award and hope to do the same for the next generation."

A role model for the next generation 

Eline would like to return to the classroom, not as a teacher, but as an inspirer. She advocates for more attention to IT in education and believes in the potential of female students to excel in this field. "We really need more women in IT," she says. "I've realized that diversity is not just a 'numbers game'; it's about bringing different perspectives to the table."

With the Rising Tech Star Award, Eline wants to inspire other young girls. She wants to share her story and show that IT is not just for men or 'nerds'. "IT is for anyone who is motivated, creative and wants to make a difference," says Eline. "The idea that you need a purely technical education is nothing but a myth. There are so many different ways to get a job in IT, and that's what I want to show."