Read about Jianqun Wang

What brought you to a career in technology at the United Nations?

I joined the UN in 2003 as an Information System Officer. Before that, I was a Senior Software Engineer at Oracle Corporation. I was glad that I finally had the opportunity to join the UN and use my experience and knowledge in IT to make contributions to promote peace, security, and development of the world.

What has been your favorite IT project at the United Nations and what was your technical contribution?

My favorite IT project at the UN was designing the iCSO System at https://esango.un.org/civilsociety. The integrated Civil Society Organizations (iCSO) System facilitates interactions between civil society organizations and DESA. The system provides online registration of general profiles for civil society organizations, including addresses, contacts, activities, and meeting participation. It also facilitates the application procedure for consultative status within the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). Additionally, it assists accredited NGOs in submitting quadrennial reports and designating representatives to the United Nations. I designed the database and oversaw the development of the project, conducted the user acceptance test and deployed the project to production. Afterward, I managed and maintained the project for several years.

What advice would you give women interested in pursuing a field in technology?

If you have a passion for technology, go for it. Don't let the stereotype that women are not good at technology bother you. Always keep your dreams alive and chase them. Women can excel in any area; IT is no exception.