Showcasing Yvonne Bachiller Ventress CP in Technology Performance

1. What area of IT do you specialise in? How does your role quietly keep your organisation running smoothly?

I started out as a software engineer, building and implementing business applications end to end. That hands-on experience gave me a foundation in how project delivery really works in practice. Over time, I found myself moving into project management, then strategic planning, now leading in the portfolio performance space. What I enjoy most is finding opportunities to improve in the processes — finding ways to streamline and simplify activities that don’t add value. I love that my role isn’t just about technical but about making a chance to make a difference in how projects deliver better outcomes every day.

2. What is one IT myth you wish you could debunk to the rest of the world?

The myth that ‘The customer is always right.’  I’ve learned that while keeping customers happy is important, it doesn’t mean saying yes to everything. Sometimes clients aren’t fully aware of what’s technically feasible or what will truly solve their problem. That’s where I see the role of a subject matter experts as trusted advisor. I focus on asking why behind the request, managing expectations, and suggesting alternatives that may work better. When we don’t challenge unworkable ideas, projects can spiral into scope creep, budget issues, and disappointing outcomes. Real value comes from guiding customers, not just agreeing.

3. What’s one IT win you’re proud of that most people wouldn’t know happened behind the scenes? What’s a moment where your expertise saved the day?

For me, IT is all ensuring data accuracy and integrity. During a multi-year migration of business applications project, I suggested doing a full stock inventory. It took three days, but the payoff was significant— I with the team corrected inaccurate system balances and replaced them with verified figures from the inventory. This led to two key wins: having the right inventory in the system and generating accurate purchase orders. So, there was real trust in my expertise to push for it as the management acknowledges the importance of accurate data. It’s the kind of behind-the-scenes effort — quiet work that delivers lasting value.

4. Which qualities / skills make a great IT professional?

In my more than two decades journey as an IT professional, I’ve seen that a great IT professional is more than just technically skilled—it’s about mindset and people skills too. The best ones are problem-solvers at heart, always curious and determined to get to the root of an issue. They can also communicate clearly, translating technical details into language that makes sense for everyone, which builds trust and alignment. And they stay adaptable—because in IT, change is constant, and learning never stops. For me, it’s this blend of persistence, communication, and adaptability that turns a good technician into a truly great IT professional.

5. Who is your IT hero (tech, system, robot or person)?

The people that I considered as heroes are Dennis Ritchie and Bjarne Stroustrup, the creators of C and C++. I know that it is an old programming language but my appreciation stems from my personal experience learning these languages. I have fond memories of working through exercises in books, and my proficiency in C/C++ was a key factor in landing my first job in the tech industry. The foundational concepts of these languages are so influential that they continue to make it easier for me to learn and adapt to new technologies.

IT Professionals Day 2025 celebrates the vital contributions of IT experts who keep systems secure, reliable, and innovative. Often working behind the scenes, they are the unsung heroes ensuring business continuity, digital progress, and user support. The day recognises their expertise, resilience, and the critical role they play in society.