A recent PWC study has found that the career in the technology industry was the first choice for only 3% of students and women account for only 22% of AI professionals. With the latest wave of society, which extends back to the initiatives of diversity, equity and inclusion (Dei), women in tech find themselves at the crossroads.
Does this signal the end of progress or prompt to action? This year’s theme of International Women’s Day (March 8, 2025) ‘Speed up action for equality of women and men ‘. And we are investigating what is at stake for women in technology, how to push forward, despite the shift of corporate priorities and why the actual inclusion cannot be considered a trend.
The challenge of the technological space
“I joined the technical industry to challenge the outdated idea that it was space for women,” says Kate Shaw, manager of IPAAS SNAPLOGIC. Shaw firmly believes that in his creation he consumed his efforts to break the barriers she faced. “Real progress comes from active creation of opportunities, demanding distortion and ensting technology is accessible to everyone. International Women’s Day serves as a strong reminder that we must take decisive measures to seize the leadership, innovation and shape the future of technology. It is still necessary to do the work and we must continue to push forward to secure space at the table – not only for the downstream, but for future generations.
Stephanie Albertina-Wright, Chief Consultant in the Global Company of Cyber Security Palo Alto Networks’ Unit 42 shares a similar story. “During my day, as a woman in technology, I faced challenges, from Impost’s syndrome to unconscious bias from a small number of individuals, where I felt that I was discarded or not taken seriously in advance.” But I also had the incredible support of colleagues who recognize the value that people bring to this area – their gender location.
Leading through an example
Simone Mink, while Simone Mink expressed it on the movement of Anti-Dei in the US, led the product operations on the low code development platform, called the EU transparency directive in the right direction. It emphasized the importance of tuking fast and crucial steps. “We need more women in technology and leaders must lead an example to add up a gender imbalance. We must act now so that we do not meet and ensure the progress of equality of women and men. Therefore, it is essential to consider our societies and governments responsible for the progress and protection of gender equality. ”
KAMS Narayan, Director of APIM Product Management in Snaplogic agrees. He looks at IWD as suitable for celebrating durability, talent and leadership of women who continue to violate obstacles in industries traditionally. “It is also a challenge to the event – to support, link, inspire and encourage the next generation and at the same time honor a woman who has constantly proved that talent and leadership are not defined by sex. Where talent shorts persist, we all have to play an active role in mentoring and increasing more women to enter with confidence. As Mahatma Gandhi said: “Be the change you want to see in the world.”
Inclusive workplace and barriers for breaking
CFO on the representative of the Emma Seymour workforce platform trying to create a workplace where everyone can succeed. “IWD is a celebration of progress driven by a purpose drive. As a CFO here, I am proud to play a role in the management of our company to the unicorn status – not only through the Finnish strategy, but also in various votes, supporting innovation and shaping this culture, which emphasizes every team, ”says Seymour. “What else does me is part of the team leader, which is 80% of women and is passionate about the foundations for the next generation of leaders in technology and finance. This foundation is built through the event: Inserting financial literacy and career development at all levels and ensuring our investment – in people, technologies and programs, they create a workplace where every GR has the opportunity to prosper and success.
In order to encourage more young women in technology and cyber security, we need visible mentoring and industry commitment in schools, says Seymour.
He adds: “It is also beneficial to talk about schemes and packages of great rewards, which are often available for career within technology and especially cyber security, because they are usually very good in order and solve the sign of this industry. Programs such as Cyberfirst from the National Center Cyber Security Center, which include the Cyberfirst Girls Competition competition, are great reflective stones to induce these interests. It is an extremely beneficial and interest care journey with full opportunities and there are organizations that will support the way to lead and respect the importance of working life/family life. The leader in this sector, although it is limited in number.
It’s all about balance
It is important to accelerate the action and at the same time recognize the importance of balance and care for yourself, reminds of Charlotte Lucy Hall, co -founder and CMO at ZINC, a platform providing services in the background for talents and HR teams. “Women carry so much responsibility, for me it was led by society, the first round of financing and navigation on a difficult pregnancy way at once – and finding time for my MateSelf was necessary for all of it.” “Take small moments for yourself, help mentally and emotionally reset and disrupt that we can continue to appear as our best self, where we are leaders, partners, parents, colleagues or everyone in one.
On her journey balancing professional success and motherhood, Grace ensell, a sales manager in Western Digital UK, says, “I’m lucky to find a balance between my work and I am a mother, because supportive teammates, friends and family.
“For me, real equality is about creating a fair environment in which everyone has the same opportunity and responsibility in their career and personal life. This does not mean ignoring the existing challenges that women in the technological industry, especially those that balance the professional success with Matodood face. We still have a long way to achieve full gender equality, but I want to encourage everyone to participate in it.
Franziska Ferraz, Vice President for the development of EMEA media owners in Criteo, digital advertising companies, reflects this feeling. “Persite prioritization was essential, and that is where the strong values and management of the company can actually change,” he explains. “With the flexibility and confidence to play on both fronts, this culture has allowed me to unlock the opportunity and is still growing in my role.
“For me, inclusive cultures are not just“ pleasant ”for organizations – they are vital catalysts for success. When everyone’s voice is really heard, the whole organization is doing well. My advice? Create a robust support network inside and outside your company and the gift is afraid to own your expertise and achievements. You have earned a place at the table – now claim it.
Photo by Brooke Cagle on Unsplash
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