Victoria Member Spotlight: Padma Ommi, Teaching Fellow, Deakin University

A Snapshot of My Career Journey

I bring 15+ years of experience across IT, banking, and project delivery, and I currently work as a Teaching Fellow at Deakin University. I teach cybersecurity and business analytics, with a strong focus on making technical concepts practical and relevant. My background in analytics, governance, and compliance allows me to bring real industry context into the classroom. Having worked closely with both technical teams and business leaders, I enjoy helping students connect theory with real-world practice and build confidence as they prepare for their careers in a fast-changing digital environment.

What Inspired My Path into This Field

My journey into this field was shaped during my early career in banking, where I saw how deeply technology impacts people, decisions, and trust. Working in risk and compliance made me realise how even a small oversight can have a wide impact, and that understanding stayed with me. Over time, I felt a strong pull not just to work in this space but to teach it.

Having been a student myself and having gone through a career change, I know how overwhelming and uncertain the journey can feel. That experience helps me relate to my students on a personal level. It is what motivates me to teach in a way that feels supportive, practical, and grounded in real challenges. Guiding others through that learning curve, and helping them find confidence in a complex field, is what inspires me every day.

A Career Highlight That Stands Out

The most rewarding part of my work has been teaching and building real connections with students. Because I have spent years in industry and also been a student myself, I understand the challenges they face. This helps me see where they might struggle and support them before they lose confidence. Watching students grow, trust themselves more, and find their direction is something I find truly fulfilling.

Skills for the Next Generation of Tech Professionals

For future-ready professionals, students should build strong fundamentals in their chosen IT fields- be it cybersecurity, data, software development, cloud, or business analysis. Solid technical skills must be paired with problem-solving, clear communication, and critical thinking. Understanding how technology connects to business needs, governance, and real-world use is essential. Adaptability and a willingness to keep learning will set them apart as technology evolves. Skills like teamwork, asking the right questions, and ethical use of technology are key. Above all, staying curious and open to new tools and challenges will help them thrive.

Making the Most of ACS Membership for Career Growth

ACS members can get the most value by staying active and involved. Attending events, joining discussions, and connecting with people from different IT areas can open unexpected doors. The more you engage, the more you learn from others’ experiences and perspectives.

Take advantage of ACS professional development programs, mentoring, and learning resources to keep your skills current and receive career guidance. Getting involved in special interest groups or volunteering within ACS can build your confidence, visibility, and leadership. Most importantly, see ACS as a long-term community where sharing and learning with peers supports your steady growth and keeps you aligned with the industry’s direction.