CEO

Jenine Beekhuyzen

What does a CEO do?

When you first create a new company, you have to be very detailed and give everything a try, all parts of the business. You learn your strengths and weaknesses and what skills you need to surround yourself with. Then when you grow a team, you shift focus to think more strategically and long-term.

What do you work in and what is your specialty?

I work in technology and my specialty is people. I help people use technology and overcome barriers to engagement. I work mostly in entrepreneurship, STEM education, and outreach, and research.

How did you become interested in this area and when did you first start?

I’ve always love problem-solving and tinkering. That’s what STEM is all about. What keeps me interested is finding innovative solutions to important everyday problems

What study path have you taken to get here?

I have studied a lot, but that dedication and hard work means I can now work for myself, on my own schedule, in the locations I want, with the people I want. Education has given me many choices. I studied a Diploma in Business at TAFE, a Bachelor of Information Technology, a Graduate Certificate in Research Management, and a Doctorate of Philosophy. Yes, I’m a Dr!

What do you like most about your job?

I love that every day is different. One day I’m working at home in my pjs and the next I’m on a plane to talk to a room full of hundreds of corporates or present at a conference. Another day I’m running hands-on robotics workshops. It keeps it interesting!

Do you have any particular career highlights?

I was once invited to meet the Grand Duchess of Luxembourg and give her a light up wearable technologies superhero cape. And a free trip to Europe to do it!

What advice would you give to someone interested in working in this area?

Education is necessary to be in a position to create your own future. Try lots of things. Work out what you are good at it and surround yourself with complimentary skills. Be a little bit braver than everyone else.