What if you didn’t take Computer Science at school … but still became a Senior AI leader?
Author: Victoria Sinel, Non-Executive Director, Teens in AI, and IBM Senior AI & Analytics Consultant and Tech Lead
That’s exactly what I did. My story matters – especially if you’ve ever thought:
➡️ “I didn’t pick the right subjects.”
➡️ “I’m not technical enough.”
➡️ “Tech isn’t for someone like me.”
My journey proves there is no single “correct” route into AI.
A Non-Technical Start
My A-Levels were English, Geography and Philosophy.
Not Computer Science.
Not Maths-heavy.
Not what most people imagine when they picture an AI professional.
I entered the tech industry completely non-technical and built all of her expertise through a Degree Apprenticeship and on-the-job learning at IBM.
In 2024, I completed my Level 6 (Undergraduate) Degree Apprenticeship. Now, I’m studying for a Level 7 (Postgraduate) Master’s Degree Apprenticeship in AI & Data Science – while working full time.
Today, I am a Senior AI & Analytics Consultant and Tech Lead, leading high-impact AI initiatives. And I did it all through an apprenticeship.
The Moment That Changed Everything: The 2020 Exam Algorithm
In 2020, during COVID, the UK government introduced an algorithm to calculate A-Level results.
Victoria was directly affected. Because I attended a school in a lower socio-economic area, my grades were downgraded from teacher assessments. The algorithm didn’t judge her potential – it judged her postcode. That experience was painful. But it became a turning point.
Instead of walking away from technology, I asked:
➡️ Who builds these systems?
➡️ Why do they make decisions like this?
➡️ How can we make them fairer?
It showed me how algorithms can reinforce inequality – and sparked a determination to understand AI systems from the inside. Rather than pushing me away from tech, it pushed me into it.
Ethics Before Engineering
Even before entering the industry, I was already thinking critically about tech. For my Extended Project Qualification (EPQ): To what extent will the lack of diversity in the tech industry impact society?
That research shaped everything that followed. It sparked my interest in:
➡️ AI ethics
➡️ Representation in technology
➡️ Responsible innovation
I realised something powerful: technology reflects the people who build it.
As we move further into the digital age, technology is shaping almost every aspect of our lives. That becomes a problem when the people building it don’t reflect the people it serves. Tech should be built for the people, by the people.
Why My Apprenticeship Changed My Life
For me, my apprenticeship wasn’t just a route into work – it was access. It provided:
➡️ Real-world technical skills
➡️ A salary while studying
➡️ Financial independence
➡️ Confidence in an industry that can feel intimidating
➡️ A path without needing traditional privilege
I believe apprenticeships are one of the most powerful tools for social mobility.
You don’t need to come from the ‘right’ background.
You don’t need to have coded since age 10.
You don’t need to follow the standard university route.
You need opportunity – and the determination to take it.
Leadership at a Young Age
During my apprenticeship, I was promoted twice early. Today, I:
➡️ Lead AI and analytics initiatives
➡️ Manage technical delivery
➡️ Continue postgraduate study
➡️ Balance leadership with learning
And I’m doing all of this while still early in her career. My story challenges the idea that apprenticeships are a ‘backup’ option. In reality, they can accelerate responsibility and leadership.
Giving Back: Opening Doors for Others
I believe my success isn’t just personal – it’s purposeful. I regularly speak to young people about apprenticeship pathways. I founded and led the Apprentice / Working Learner Community at Northeastern University London. I lead and participate in diversity initiatives within IBM. I am also actively supporting underrepresented groups entering tech.
As a Non-Executive Director at Teens in AI, I also help shape opportunities for the next generation.
Because access should not depend on background.
My Message to You
If you didn’t take Computer Science…
If your school didn’t have the best resources…
If an algorithm once underestimated you…Your path is still open.
There is no single route into AI.
There is no single ‘type’ of person who belongs in tech.
My journey – from humanities student to AI leader – shows that the future of technology can and should be shaped by people with different perspectives.
And that could include you.
Victoria’s Recognition & Awards
Victoria’s impact has not gone unnoticed.
- Runner-Up, Apprentice of the Year 2025 – Target Jobs Awards
- Leadership Award 2024 – Northeastern University London
- Woman of the Year – Tech & Consultancy 2025 – Women in Tech Excellence Awards
But if you ask her, the real success is seeing more young people realise: “I can belong in this industry.”
Northeastern Global News Interview with Victoria Sinel:
Also read an interview by Northeastern Global News where Victoria discusses her career journey
