Movers and Shakers: Triinu Magi, Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer, Neura

Triinu Magi, Co-Founder and CTO of Neura, a company leading the trend on the Internet of Things, has always believed in paving her own path. Growing up in Estonia, Magi was instilled early on with the idea that everyone had the opportunity to create their own successful future. This mentality and entrepreneurial work ethic has shaped Magi throughout her professional development.

“This established the foundation that made me the leader I am today,” said Magi.

Drawn to Innovation
Magi entered the workforce at the young age of nineteen and she noted that in every role she held, innovation and technology were always two key focal points. Before she branched out on her own to create Neura, Magi spent over fifteen years working in various computer and network security related positions.

During the period when Estonia was establishing their independence from Russia, Magi played a key role in developing the Estonian e-government services and she was instrumental in creating an independent security analysis for Estonia’s e-voting system. Later in her career, Magi worked in research and innovation for Israel’s RSA Security.

“Without these experiences, I would not be able to hold the role I do at Neura. I consider each of these roles to have been stepping stones that have led me to where I am today,” said Magi. “I definitely feel like I was in the right place at the right time,” added Magi.

While Magi acknowledges the part that her previous roles have played in her success, she is proud of the fact that she had the courage to follow her passion and her heart by forming her own company. “I encourage every woman to follow their passions by doing what they love,” said Magi, “and this will involve a lot of hard work, but in the end it will be extremely rewarding.”

Magi has always gravitated toward innovation throughout her career, which is why it is no surprise that she started Neura one year ago. “We are excited about the work we are doing with the Internet of Things and exploring the interconnectivity of technology that will ultimately make our digital experiences more personalized and more human,” Magi explained.

She continued, “I believe that Neura will be the solution that enables the Internet of Things movement to provide trustful, intelligent and adaptive services to connected devices’ users. This is the future of technology, bringing intelligence to connected ecosystems, and we’re very excited to be a part of it.”

Women in Technology
“Do whatever it is you love to do,” advised Magi. According to Magi, women need to be careful not to create their own barriers by self-selecting out of opportunities. “By doubting our abilities and lacking confidence, we enable the negative stereotypes that surround women in technology,” said Magi.

Magi acknowledged that managing the work and home life balance is one of the biggest issues for women in technology. “Traditionally, women are responsible for the care of the family and the home. Globally, I think women often feel responsible to act as the primary caretaker in the home and the workplace, creating mounting pressure and little time for themselves. However, as we move toward a progressive future and gender roles blend, I think this balance will be easier to maintain and uphold,” noted Magi.

For women trying to pave their own path in the technology industry –and any industry that has been historically male-dominated –Magi urges them to be themselves and to embrace the value that they bring to the table as a woman. “So many people advise women to not act like women and to try to be one of the boys, but this is not going to benefit you in the long-run,” said Magi. “Women in the technology field remarkably excel at managerial and analytical skills, and provide a great deal of value in this growing industry.”

Magi believes that one of the best things that women in technology can do for one another is network and share stories and experiences in order to strengthen their cause as a whole. She is personally involved in women in technology groups to meet other women and inspire each other to stay motivated in their careers.

Outside the Office
While Magi is deeply committed to growing and expanding her company, she does manage to find the time to participate in relaxing activities like windsurfing, gardening, and yoga. “I enjoy sharing my time with the ones I care about, and doing the things I love,” said Magi.

By Michelle Hendelman