It’s important to raise accountability for programs that aim to bring more women and underrepresented groups into technology jobs. Find resources that encourage women in technology. The last year has seen a renewed focus on diversity at work, as well as increased accountability for programs that aim to bring more women and underrepresented groups into the tech industry. According to CompTIA’s 2021 Industry Outlook Report:
“Despite years of discussion about diversity in high-tech workforces, the situation has not improved significantly. The reality is that things are changing in the reverse. Data from the Bureau of Labor show that the percentage of women in computing jobs has been declining steadily from 36% in 1991, to 26% today. There are many programs that aim to create more balance for underrepresented groups. And there is plenty of analysis on the root causes. It’s time to look at something else, as these noble efforts are not producing the desired result. It’s time to shift from awareness to accountability. There are plenty of statistics that support the gender gap in tech, as well as the dearth of representation for minority groups.
Builtin.com reports that 3% of computing jobs are held in America by African American women, while 6% are held by Asian women and 2% by Hispanic women. Half of women report experiencing gender discrimination at work, which can lead to career barriers and can be a career off-ramp.
A Kaspersky report recently revealed significant inequalities for women in the field. Only 10% of women who work in tech roles are part of a female-majority group, while 48% work in a male-majority group.
Exabeam recently reported that male respondents earned an average of $91K, while female respondents earned $62K.
Statistics show that first-person accounts are in line with the statistics. Madelene Campos is a software developer at BrightGauge. BrightGauge is a CompTIA member ConnectWise. “In many industries, and not just tech, being taken seriously because of gender perception continues to feel like a problem. To prove our capabilities, we often need to ‘prove’ ourselves more than men. Organizations need to work with HR teams to ensure that all employees receive equal pay and benefits, regardless of gender.
Although there are many bright spots, there is still much to do. Below are some inspiring stories of women who are challenging the status quo. We have also included links to resources that will encourage women to enter the field. You can also connect with CompTIA’s Advancement Women in Technology Interest group now to network and receive career support.
One woman’s journey from stage to technology career
After facing financial limitations, Chloe Condon became a senior cloud advocate at Microsoft. She became an advocate for women in technology after that switch. Condon shares her perspective, advice, and how to make big workplace diversity goals seem achievable. Read her story.
Success Stories from Women Building Technology Brands
Are you looking for inspiration for your tech startup? Three young women entrepreneurs are inspiring you: Riya Karumanchi (the 15-year-old founder of SmartCane); Chioma Ifeanyi Okoro (founder of My African Corner); and Vanessa Vakharia (founder and CEO at The Math Guru), who are setting new standards in the industry. Learn about their journeys.
Cybersecurity Jobs: Closing the Gender Gap
Research consistently shows that cybersecurity jobs are dominated by men. This article provides actionable steps that managers and business owners can use to attract more women into IT security. Continue reading.
We have also compiled a list with resources to encourage women to pursue cybersecurity careers. These resources can be found here.
Women are leading the way in emerging technology
Karen Gordon, founder and chief facilitator of WE Design Think in Chicago, has been studying blockchain and developing applications for distributed ledger technology. She believes it has the potential for big things. Gordon believes that everyone is on the same page as blockchain’s future, because everyone is sorted out.