Women in technology: the transformation we experience and build*
Technology is present in every aspect of our lives. The problem is that women, who make up half the world’s population, are still under-represented in this sector. Of course, there have been significant advances, but the road to gender equality in technology still presents major challenges. I’m taking the opportunity in this article to explore the importance of the female presence in technology, the barriers faced and the opportunities that arise with greater gender diversity.
My experience in technology
Since entering the technology sector, I have fallen in love with its transformative capacity. I am fascinated by the creation of solutions, the power of innovation, and the constant challenge of solving complex problems. However, I quickly encountered the reality of a sector that is still mostly male, in which we are often the only women in the room.
The historical role of women in the sector
I feel part of a long history of women who, like me, challenged the norms and excelled in technology. Ada Lovelace, Grace Hopper, and many other pioneers paved the way for a world that underestimated them. Today, we follow in their footsteps, knowing our work will inspire future generations. However, despite the advances, women are still in the minority, both in technical and leadership positions.
Persistent inequalities, not insurmountable
The numbers don’t lie: less than 30% of the technology workforce comprises women, and even fewer hold decision-making positions, as indicated by the latest report from the National Center for Women & Information Technology. The challenges are diverse. Gender bias, for example, means that many women face discrimination in the workplace, from pay differences to promotion opportunities. We also find a lack of “role models”, a lack of leading female figures in the sector, which discourages young women from pursuing technology careers. Another barrier is the imposter syndrome: women often underestimate their abilities due to cultural pressure and gender stereotypes rooted in society.
Diversity generates innovation
Gender diversity is not just a matter of social justice but also a driver of innovation. I’ve worked in diverse teams and seen how different perspectives produce more creative and effective solutions. When women and men collaborate, they bring complementary experiences and ideas that drive projects forward. Companies that invest in diversity not only promote equality but also achieve better financial results and higher rates of innovation.
How can we move forward?
Various initiatives are being developed worldwide to ensure more excellent female representation. Mentoring programs, events such as Women in Tech, and awards such as the Portuguese Women in Tech (PWIT) Awards have been essential in promoting gender equality in technology. In this context, I feel that being one of the nominees for the PWIT Awards 2024 is a recognition of my work and an added responsibility to continue inspiring other women. We need to promote more technological education, create more inclusive working environments, and ensure that women have a voice in strategic decisions.
Several possible strategies for moving forward exist. These include, among others, education from an early age (encouraging girls to explore technology with curiosity and passion), more welcoming work environments (companies that offer equal opportunities and support for work-life balance), and mentoring and networking initiatives (support networks that help women grow and feel part of the industry).
As a woman passionate about technology, I know that the road to gender equality is still long but not impossible. Every female achievement in this sector is a collective victory, a step towards a future where diversity will be the norm. Being a woman in technology isn’t just about being part of a revolution; it’s about helping to shape it.
I believe in a more inclusive, innovative, and purposeful technological future. We women will be at the forefront of this transformation!
*This article was originally published in Observador.
