Why we should stop and smell the progress.
Once more for the people in the back: it’s never been a better time to be a woman in tech. And there’s so much to celebrate whilst looking ahead to what we can drive even further. We’ve detailed how the industry has shifted for the better, and some recent member input from International Women’s Day that gave us the optimistic feels.
For the graduates.
Oh, how far we’ve come. Taking a look back to how women fared within science and technology fields since the 1800s proves the leaps forward we can achieve when we work towards a common goal. And now, we’re seeing the dial shift to a point where employers actively search for women to join their team — instead of having to beat down the door.
At this point, you’re likely to be considering your next move, or what’s available to take you from employable to extremely employable. And joining a community of like-minded women (AKA Girls in Tech) is the first step towards better networking, clever upskilling, and actively joining conversations around women in tech.
“As a current Computer Science student, I’ve learnt so many things about the tech industry, as well as life, in general. I have mentors who are always willing to help and friends that serve as a support group. Coming from a no-tech background, I immediately felt like giving up on my first day of lectures for my degree. 2 years later, I’m completing my final year and eager to start my postgraduate studies in Computer Science!”
— Mishra
“Girls in Tech influenced my way of thinking of how tech is acknowledged as progressive, and empathy thought leadership is the key to being successful. No matter what background you have, it’s the values and soft skills that get you further than most!”
— Nicola L
For the mid-tiers.
Yes, we’re always focused on shifting the needle on the number of women who have a seat at the tech table. But let’s celebrate the quality over the quantity for a moment, considering women within these fields are making some serious waves by not only claiming leadership positions but bringing others up in the process.
It’s also worth considering that with the shift to remote and hybrid working, and the autonomous nature of the tech industry, women are not alone in wanting flexibility with their hours. This has eased the pressure on working mothers who juggle to do it all.
“I spent 15 years as a physical therapist before deciding to make the transition to the tech industry. Based on my transitional skills and passion for curiosity, creativity and problem-solving I found UX design and research.
Girls in Tech was instrumental in my journey. At the very beginning of my coursework, I took a weekend workshop in Virginia on Design Thinking. It was an amazing experience with great opportunities to network and collaborate with other women. It absolutely solidified my decision to become a UX professional. I’m now continuing to take courses to round out my knowledge, working on my portfolio and applying for jobs. A supportive community is everything and that’s just what Girls in Tech is.“
— Naomi H
“Girls in Tech is a safe space for me to learn and feel encouraged. As the only woman in a 35-men-tech startup, I feel happy to have discovered a community of amazing girls and women sharing the same passion. I totally plan to keep on thriving and letting my voice be heard, even when people try to not give me a seat at the table.”
— Agus
For the leaders.
We’ve seen significant initiatives on a global scale to encourage women to consider a career in STEM and tech. Fab. But there’s also been comprehensive research into the impact of closing the gender gap within organizations, and how it positively affects revenue, ideas, and overall success. These reports are compelling arguments to support what plenty of us have been saying for years and assist in putting forth an objective view to sway those in power to make real change.
“My passion to promote gender equality started way back. At the age of 18, I was the first woman in my family to join the military. Surrounded by men, I managed to thrive by being assertive and persuasive. I promised myself that I would build the change I wanted to see and show others it can be done. Qualitest’s workforce is made up of 40% women with some locations, like Portugal at 60%! We achieved this by establishing different diversity committees and forums, having women mentor men under our mentorship program, using skills-based assessments to avoid bias, and implementing ‘Return to work’ programs.
As a mother to three beautiful kids, I even further appreciate the importance of gender diversity and I try in every possible way to set an example to all super moms out there. I am fully committed to keeping it up.”
— Einav L
