Taboola is proud to have sponsored the first-ever NohoHacks event in California, an educational and meaningful learnathon and hackathon focused on GenAI (Generative Artificial Intelligence) for high school students. The event inspired the aspiring tech minds of tomorrow, and we were excited to have R&D Group Manager Tracy Tan, along with Software Engineers Jonathan Quach, and Gustavo Torres representing Taboola’s R&D Team.
What is NohoHacks?
NohoHacks is California’s first GenAI learnathon/hackathon for high school students, led by high school students. The two-part event features a week of hands-on online workshops and guided learning led by professionals in tech. Focused on making tech more accessible, the event helps students develop new skills, build innovative projects, and connect with a supportive network of peers and mentors.
Taboola & NohoHacks
The Taboola team was pleased to share their favorite takeaways from speaking directly with high school students and answering their career-and tech-related questions. Tracy expressed, “I was incredibly impressed by how much they learned from the speakers and the UCLA/USC mentors.” From projects covering critical topics like politics, mental health, posture, college research, brain training, and eco-shopping, Taboola’s R&D team was equally inspired by seeing such passion for using technology to solve real-world problems.
Jonathan Quach added, “I felt good, encouraging the students to work on problems they find worth solving and providing the most impact. I felt I was able to pay it forward to these students as former mentors had done for me when I was in their shoes once upon a time, as a former LAUSD and UCLA alum.”
As a technology company that uses AI and machine learning to empower businesses to grow through performance advertising technology, Taboola is deeply invested in tech innovation and helping foster the next generation of tech talent. Tracy adds, “It’s why we love to support events like this!”
Women in Tech Leadership at Taboola
Having strong role models is everything, and Taboola’s tech team is continuously motivated by the leadership of VP of Engineering, Ning Ning Yu. Tracy Tan shares, “She (Ning Ning) has shown me firsthand how to grow a major R&D office, building our team in LA/Taiwan from less than 20 people to over 70. Seeing her succeed and support others gives me a clear path for my own growth.”
Tracy adds how she’s climbed tremendously at Taboola, from a Database Administrator to leading a team as an R&D Group Manager. The constant evolution in ad-tech and data means there’s always something new to learn and build, and she notes that she’s been given the support and guidance to “build the teams that build the things!” Taboola champions an environment where talent and hard work are recognized, regardless of gender.
How Taboola is Influencing the Future of Women in Tech
“What inspires me the most is how capable this new generation is. This emerging generation is so tech-savvy, and with all the new tools and resources available, they are like sponges, learning and growing at a speed I never could have imagined in high school,” Tracy shares. “This is especially true for my daughter, one of the junior organizers for NohoHacks, who is an aspiring engineer like my husband and I!”
Despite the competitive nature of working in the tech world and concerns about AI’s impact on the future of working in tech, Tracy shares how her daughter’s journey into tech has taught her never to underestimate the speed of innovation and how quickly new ideas can be brought to life. “It’s been rewarding to see her excel through her Internship and embrace the tech path!”
The Taboola R&D culture
“We work hard on complex challenges, but we also know how to have fun and support each other. You can find us celebrating Chinese New Year with Dim Sum, playing ping-pong during breaks, singing karaoke at holiday parties, or playing Nintendo games after work.”
Tracy adds that, “As a team, we value learning and growth, and we actively seek people eager to expand their skills and willing to jump in and support their teammates when roadblocks arise.”
What Advice Does Tracy Have for Those Curious About a Career in Tech?
Always be learning, growing, and adapting!
To learn more about why we are consistently ranked as a great place to work, check out the Taboola Life blog. Visit our careers page and realize your potential with #TaboolaLife.
