It’s no secret that women are underrepresented in technology.
“A 2020 study by the AnitaB.org Institute found that women make up 28.8% of the tech workforce, a steady increase from the past few years — 25.9% in 2018 and 26.2% in 2019.” (WhatisTechTarget.com)
Why does it matter?
It may seem that encouraging women to join the industry is unnecessary (it’s not like women entering the workforce are unaware of technology as an industry), but there are benefits to technology organizations, tech teams, and even society as a whole to having a diverse workforce, including diversity in gender. Adding new perspectives is the main benefit. After all, we solve problems only once we recognize the problem.
For more information about the benefits of diversity in your workforce, read our article: How Diversity Has Strengthened Our Workforce.
One of the main reasons we are not seeing equal numbers of men and women in technology is the lack of role models. So, here are a few places to find role models and feel empowered as a woman in technology.
Women In Technology International
“Women in Technology International (WITI) is the leading organization for the advancement and inclusion of women in business and technology. Our innovative programs and platforms are designed to ensure women, minorities, and technology organizations realize a diverse and inclusive workplace. Our networks, members and employees are experts across dozens of industry and technology fields.”
Women In Technology International has many local chapters in the US and beyond. This is a great place to interact with like-minded women in technology and perhaps find a mentor.
Technovation
“We are a global tech education nonprofit that empowers girls to become leaders, creators and problem-solvers.”
Technovation focuses more on empowering girls that are in the classroom, but as a woman in technology, you could volunteer with the group, mentor a future generation of women in technology, and meet and learn from peers.
Women Tech Network
“Make a difference in the world by enabling women’s empowerment in tech through leadership development, professional growth, mentorship and networking events for professionals.”
The Women Tech Network is a well-rounded organization that offers access to a community of women in technology, job opportunities, and mentorship programs. Their annual events also raise money for Coding Girls, a fantastic organization.
Coding Girls
“We’re a global award-winning platform dedicated to closing the gender gap in technology.”
If you are looking to help girls in technology, Coding Girls is an excellent place to start. They have chapters worldwide, and their focus is on offering more opportunities for girls to learn technology skills. There are fewer chapters within the US than in Europe, but the team is accepting offers for leaders to start new chapters.
Women Entering & Staying in Tech (WEST)
“In 2015 a few Silicon Valley companies came up with the idea for a cross company mentorship program for women in tech, to help women navigate their careers while broadening their network.”
West sets up mentor relationships as well as peer-to-peer relationships. Just having someone with whom you can discuss issues and bounce ideas off, whether they are at your level or more senior, is invaluable.
Tech One IT
Tech One IT is a woman-led organization offering technology opportunities for tech students and experienced SMEs across all levels. We are an equal opportunity employer, but we go the extra mile. We believe strongly that our company is strengthened by diversity. We look for individuals that are open-minded, humble, but bold enough to test theories. If you are looking for a place to boost your technology skills in an objective environment, you should look into our Technology Apprenticeship Program. If you are more experienced and looking for a supportive team, check out our open jobs now: https://techoneit.com/careers
View Open Jobs Here: Careers | Learn About TAP: Technology Apprenticeship Program | Email Us: Contact@techoneit.com | Call Us: 480-449-3333
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