Today we’d like to introduce you to Shipra Mittal.
Hi Shipra, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m Shipra Mittal, a dedicated IT professional with a solid foundation in software engineering and a growing passion for data analytics. After completing my science degree in 2008 and a postgraduate degree in computer science in 2011, from a leading women’s university in Jaipur, I began my career as a software trainee. Within three years, I advanced to lead engineer and had the opportunity to relocate to Chicago, working closely with clients on critical projects.
In 2017, I took a career pause to focus on my family. Returning to work in 2019 was a challenging yet rewarding journey, where I secured a role as Data QA at ClarisHealth. Over the next few years, I progressed to lead the Data QA team and later transitioned into a Data Analyst role, driven by my enthusiasm for turning data into actionable insights.
I thrive on learning and adapting, and I’m excited to continue growing in the data analytics space while leveraging my technical background to drive impactful solutions.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Taking a career break after the birth of my first child was a deeply rewarding personal choice, but returning to the fast-paced IT industry after two years brought its own set of challenges. I faced the uncertainty of re-entering a competitive job market, where technology and best practices had rapidly evolved. Starting anew in a contractual Data QA role after leading software teams initially felt like a step back, but I embraced the opportunity to learn and grow. Transitioning from software engineering to data quality assurance and later to data analytics required me to quickly acquire new skills and adapt to changing demands. Throughout this journey, balancing professional growth with family responsibilities has strengthened my resilience and fueled my passion for continuous learning and impactful work.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I distinguish myself through my ability to adapt and thrive amid change—returning to the tech world after a career pause and rapidly acquiring new skills in data quality and analytics. With experience spanning software engineering leadership to data analysis, I have a comprehensive understanding of technology and data processes. My early role working directly with international clients enhanced my communication and teamwork skills. Juggling career ambitions alongside family responsibilities has honed my discipline and resilience. I bring a strong technical foundation and proven leadership to help teams deliver quality results.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
For those just starting out, my biggest advice is to stay curious and embrace continuous learning—technology changes fast, and adaptability is key. Don’t be discouraged by entry-level roles or setbacks; they are valuable opportunities to build skills and resilience. Communication and networking are just as important as technical expertise, so seek mentors and collaborate often. Looking back, I wish I had understood earlier that career paths aren’t always linear, and sometimes detours or breaks can lead to new strengths and passions.
