Deepali Futane discusses her journey navigating a career transformed by adventure, innovation and having the courage to take a leap of faith.
A senior software engineer at Rent the Runway in Galway, Deepali Futane’s story began in Latur, India, which is in the state of Maharashtra. “Latur is a place defined by its history and a strong sense of local identity, but my curiosity always pulled me toward a more global horizon,” she told SiliconRepublic.com.
“In September 2019, I packed my life into a few suitcases and moved to Ireland to pursue a master’s in information systems at University College Dublin (UCD)”, a time she described as an academic chapter that rewrote her life in ways she couldn’t have foreseen.
“Over six years later, the transition is complete: Ireland is no longer just a destination on a map; it is home in every meaningful way. My identity has evolved, blending my Indian roots with the calm, welcoming rhythm of Irish life.”
Why did you decide to move here?
As a computer science graduate, I was always fascinated by the ‘how’ of technology, but I became increasingly preoccupied with the ‘why’. I wanted to understand the intersection of human behaviour and digital systems. I chose Ireland because I was looking for a master’s programme that didn’t just focus on code, but on human-computer interaction (HCI) and social engineering.
I have a firm conviction that technology design is a moral responsibility. It shapes how people think, whom they trust, and how they interact with society. The MSc at UCD offered that perfect bridge. Beyond the academics, I was drawn to the ‘soul’ of Ireland, its legendary natural beauty, its rich literary culture and a sense of community that I had heard mirrored the warmth of home in India. It felt like the right place for a fresh start.
What’s your role in the company?
I work as a senior software engineer at Rent the Runway, specialising in full-stack development. My daily life involves diving into the architecture of scalable, user-centric systems. At its core, my role is about problem-solving. I work to ensure that the complex logic happening behind the scenes translates into a seamless, impactful experience for the end user. In the tech world, we often talk about “operational impact”, but for me, that means building tools that genuinely make people’s lives easier and more efficient.
How would you describe your working environment?
I feel incredibly fortunate to have spent the last five years at Rent the Runway. In my 12 years in the tech industry, I have never encountered a culture quite like this one. The office has truly become a second home. My colleagues have transcended the definition of co-workers; they are my support system, my confidants and my friends.
The true test of a company’s culture is how they treat you during life’s biggest transitions. During my time here, I’ve been blessed with two beautiful daughters. Rent the Runway’s commitment to women in tech is not just marketing. The benefits offered were a lifeline. It allowed me to be present for my girls during those fleeting, precious early months, providing the peace of mind that my career was secure while I focused on my family.
What do you like most about your job?
What resonates with me most is the sense of purpose and ownership. I am not just a cog in a machine; I am an architect of solutions. I love the challenge of building technology that is technically robust but designed with a ‘human-first’ philosophy.
Furthermore, I value the culture of mutual respect. It is an environment where ideas are judged on their merit, where my professional growth is actively nurtured, and where my identity as a mother is respected rather than viewed as a limitation. Having my personal life and professional ambitions co-exist in harmony is what I value most.
Was it difficult to adjust to living and working in Ireland?
Every international move has its ‘teething’ period, but mine came with a unique twist: I arrived just months before the global pandemic. Navigating a new country is hard enough, but doing so under the shadow of a lockdown was a true test of character.
However, it was during these dark months that I saw the true face of Ireland. The warmth, kindness and looking out for one another that defines Irish culture made the transition so much smoother. The support I received from neighbors and colleagues during that time left a lasting impression on my heart. It proved to me that I wasn’t just a guest here; I was part of a community.
What surprised you about moving to Ireland, if anything?
The biggest surprise was the authenticity of the work-life balance. In many parts of the world, balance is a buzzword that people mention in interviews but ignore in practice. In Ireland, it is a lived reality. There is a deep-seated respect for personal time and family life.
I was also surprised by how inclusive the community is. People here don’t just tolerate diversity; they embrace it. There is a genuine effort to make you feel included, whether it’s a chat over a cup of tea or the way neighbours check in on you.
How does your working life help to make you feel at home here?
Work is often our primary point of contact with a new culture, and for me, it provides a sense of belonging. Being part of a team that trusts my expertise and values my contribution helped me build roots. The flexibility I’ve experienced as a mother has been crucial. Knowing that I can be a high-performing engineer and a present mother simultaneously has made me feel that I don’t have to sacrifice one version of myself for the other. This professional safety net is what ultimately made Ireland feel like ‘home’.
What do you like most about your adopted home?
I love the tranquility. There is a specific kind of peace that comes with the Irish greenery and the safety of its streets. It is a country that allows you to grow your career at a global level without losing your sense of self in the noise. For my children, Ireland is a beautiful, safe, and nurturing garden to grow up in. For me, it is the place where I successfully built a bridge between my past in India and my future in tech.
What advice would you give to someone else considering making a move like yours?
Trust yourself and take the leap. The unknown is always daunting, but on the other side of fear is incredible reward. Be patient with the process of integration and lean into the community; you don’t have to do it alone.
To the women in tech specifically: Your perspective is your superpower. Do not be afraid to take up space, to ask the difficult questions, and to advocate for the life you want to lead. Whether you are an engineer, a mother or a student, Ireland is a place where your voice can be heard and where you can truly thrive.
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