Hello, I’m Tonia Semeraro, and I’d like to share with you my unique journey of nearly 25 years at Italtel, a path full of decisions that sometimes turned out to be real bets on the future.
Originally from Puglia, I graduated in Mathematics from the University of Bari in 2000. After a revitalizing summer full of enthusiasm and confidence, I boldly told my mother that I would find a job right away.
The First Bet…
In September, I bought a job advertisement magazine and sent my first CV to Italtel, which was looking for young graduates in scientific fields. Just one week later, I received a call, took the train to Milan, and went for my first interview. I’ll never forget that day – I was so excited. I faced a manager, who later became my boss, and an HR officer. After a great discussion, they told me they would hire me that very day – I had won my first bet.
On October 2nd, 2000, I started my first day at Italtel in Settimo Milanese, at the “2nd Warehouse,” as a software developer. Those first two years of “on-the-job training” were intense and allowed me to perform my role in the lab responsible for managing software for telephone exchanges and related devices. I had already moved to Milan, like many young people of my generation.
The Second Bet…
In 2004, for personal reasons, I requested and was granted a transfer to the Palermo office, where I still work today. This was the second bet I won, and one I have no regrets about – taking the plunge and migrating in reverse. After 20 years working here in Palermo, while continuing to collaborate with colleagues from other locations, I can proudly say that one of the key features of my company is the collaborative and highly professional environment, which can be found from north to south. Across all Italtel offices, colleagues are always available, and human and professional exchanges are part of a positive daily routine.
The Third Bet… From the Company
Challenges don’t scare me; in fact, they motivate me to always do better. Over the course of my career, I have held various positions until, two years ago, after five years as an ASPP (Prevention and Protection Service Officer) at the Carini office, I was appointed RSPP (Head of the Prevention and Protection Service) for the entire company.
I’m grateful to the management for betting on me and providing me with the opportunity to work in a complex and delicate new role, one that has multiple responsibilities and impacts, both toward my colleagues and the company itself.
I’m proud to say I’m the first woman in Italtel’s history to have held this position!
Flexibility and Smart Working
In 2015, while working in “offering,” my team participated in a pilot project called “Agile Work.” Back then, what is now widely known as “smart working” was a groundbreaking concept, implemented by only a few companies. Italtel was a pioneer in this field. Today, smart working is applied at 50% across the company, allowing all of us to better balance our work and personal lives, making our days extremely flexible and efficient. This is another distinctive feature of our corporate welfare.
Women and STEM Careers
In conclusion, I’m proud to be part of a company that values human and professional growth. Italtel is a place where women and men work side by side, engaging in mutual respect and collaboration. I encourage young talents to consider training and career opportunities in STEM fields. I especially invite young women to explore these areas because the world of technology and innovation certainly needs our contribution, perspectives, and the added value that women bring!
