Interview with Petya Kapchina, Senior Backend Developer at diva-e
Women in the tech industry are more important than ever – they add new perspectives, drive innovation, and play a key role in the industry's advancement. Yet, they are still underrepresented in many areas. This makes it all the more exciting to learn from their experiences. That’s why today, we are talking to our colleague Petya Kapchina, Senior Developer at diva-e, about her career journey, her experiences as a woman in the tech world, and how she successfully advanced in her field. She shares her perspectives on diversity, innovation, and career growth in the tech industry.
Petya joined diva-e in 2021 as a backend developer at the Sofia office. Since then, she has continuously developed her skills and expertise and is now Team Lead for Backend & Data Solutions.
Petya Kapchina I Senior Backend Developer
Can you briefly tell us what you do professionally and how you got into the tech industry?
„My journey into tech was shaped by my love for mathematics, which blossomed during my school years. In high school, I started learning informatics, which appealed to me as I have always been a problem solver. For the past nine years, I have been a passionate backend developer and, more recently, a Team Lead at diva-e, where I am responsible for working on diverse client projects.“
Were there any particular challenges or obstacles you had to overcome along the way – especially as a woman?
„The obstacles I faced in my early days as a developer were, I believe, common for all juniors: doubt in my abilities and the so-called imposter syndrome.
However, I overcame my insecurities through long hours of learning, dedication, and obtaining different forms of recognition – such as my master’s degree in informatics, certifications in the technologies I work with, and investments in my soft skill development. I consider myself fortunate to live in a time and place where I have not faced additional obstacles simply because I am a woman.“
Did you have role models or mentors who inspired you?
„There are many people I look up to. In my professional environment, I am constantly impressed by the ambition of my colleagues whose professionalism and drive for growth inspire me daily. But of course, there are also historical figures who personally and professionally shape me:
These include John Atanasoff, the Bulgarian inventor of the first electronic digital computer, and Margaret Hamilton, one of the most influential programmers in NASA's history. They exemplify that with hard work and determination, anything is possible."
How has your work environment changed in terms of gender diversity in recent years?
„Maybe my professional journey is too short to fully assess the long-term changes that have led to today’s diverse work environments. However, I am happy to work in a country that has the highest percentage of female representation in the ICT sector in Europe – approximately 31%, according to data from 2023.
I do recall attending a lecture many years ago by a female developer and leader with extensive professional experience. While I don’t remember her name or exact position, her story stayed with me. She shared that, during her university years in India, the building only had male restrooms. This memory makes me appreciate the progress we’ve made even more.“
What positive developments do you see for women in the tech industry?
„I see more and more tech companies placing a stronger emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. These initiatives aim to create fairer work environments and ensure that women and other underrepresented groups have the same opportunities for growth, leadership, and advancement in the tech industry.
Additionally, the number of women-led startups in the tech industry is growing. Many women are breaking barriers and founding their own companies.“
Are there any common biases or stereotypes you face?
„I feel privileged in this field, as I was raised in a community and family that emphasized abilities rather than gender. In my lifetime, I have had only two or three encounters that contradicted this perspective.
The first was in high school when my mathematics teacher told the class that boys are naturally better at stereometry. I still remember this moment because it was the first time I had heard someone make intellectual distinctions based on gender – especially since I was one of the top mathematics students in my class. However, I have never encountered anything drastic or stereotypical that made me feel the need to act against it.
I believe that women and men complement each other, both in life and in the workplace. Our unique strengths and perspectives help create well-balanced, strong teams that drive innovation.“
How do you experience the work environment at diva-e in terms of diversity and the support of women in tech roles?
„I remember a town hall meeting some time ago where diva-e presented data showing that the percentage of women in tech and leadership roles within the company was above the industry average. My personal experience at diva-e has been that I am seen as a professional and a developer — regardless of gender.
Learn more about how diversity is part of the dive-e culture here.
What measures should companies take to attract and support more women in tech careers?
„Showcasing the success stories of female employees can be a powerful way to inspire and motivate others to consider careers in tech. Representation matters, and role models help fuel enthusiasm for the industry.“
What advice would you give to young women aspiring to a career in the tech industry?
„Tech is for everyone. There’s no “one type” of person who belongs in this field. Embrace your unique perspective and strengths. Plus: It’s okay to ask for help. In the beginning, I believed I had to be entirely self-sufficient, which led to unnecessary struggles and late nights. Asking for help allows you to advance faster.
There is a general impression in society that engineering is a male-dominated field. This is reflected in statistics on university enrollments and workforce distribution. However, the best way to challenge stereotypes is to look at the individuals who have shaped the industry:
Ada Lovelace, the first recognized programmer
Hedy Lamarr, who co-invented the technology that laid the foundation for WiFi, Bluetooth, and GPS
Grace Hopper, the mother of COBOL and the creator of the first compiler
The Top Secret Rosies, the female "computers" of WWII
Each of us—female or male—has unique talents. If yours lie in technology, take inspiration from the women of the past and present. They have shown that nothing is unattainable. “
