Voices from the Table: Women in Tech Share Their Unique Journey

In the bustling realm of technology, women often face distinct challenges and milestones. To shed light on these experiences, a recent roundtable organised by NewRedo brought together women from various tech backgrounds.

The participants are all leaders in their respective areas and shared their own experiences in the tech industry. They discussed key topics such as how the tech sector differs from other industries, the trajectory of career progression for women in tech, and the value of internships and apprenticeships. Here’s what they had to say:

How is the Tech Sector Different from Other Industries? Diversity in the Workforce One of the recurring themes from the roundtable was the glaring gender disparity in tech compared to other industries.

Pace and Innovation The fast-paced nature of the tech industry was highlighted as both exhilarating and demanding. The pressure to continuously adapt and innovate can pose unique challenges to work-life balance, which can disproportionately affect women, especially those managing familial responsibilities.

Career Progression for Women in Tech Breaking the Glass Ceiling Many participants noted the additional hurdles women face in climbing the career ladder in tech. It was evident that there’s a tougher proving ground for women. They often have to demonstrate their skills and leadership repeatedly to receive the same recognition and opportunities as their male counterparts.

Lack of Mentorship and Role Models Mentorship plays a crucial role in career development, yet women often find fewer mentorship opportunities than their male colleagues. The lack of female role models in senior positions further compounds this issue, making it harder for women to envision and plan their career paths.

Internships and Apprenticeships: Gateways to Technology Stepping Stones Internships and apprenticeships are especially pivotal in tech. They give real-world skills but also build confidence to work in this environment.

Bridging the Gap The roundtable also discussed how these programmes help mitigate the intimidation factor for women entering a male-dominated field.

Key Takeaways and Moving Forward Community and Support Creating a supportive community within tech was emphasised as essential for fostering the inclusion of more women.

Continuous Advocacy The discussion underscored the need for continuous advocacy for women in tech, pushing for more inclusive policies, better support systems, and increased visibility of female role models.

Action Call As we wrapped up a highly insightful and engaging roundtable discussion focused on the unique experiences of women in technology, a significant decision was made that promises to shape our collective journey forward. The consensus was clear and powerful: we must attend more of these roundtable events and even take a step further by initiating our own programmes and projects.

Conclusion The roundtable was a powerful reminder of the unique paths women navigate in the tech industry. It highlighted the importance of community, mentorship, and proactive engagement in internships and apprenticeships. As the tech industry continues to evolve, the insights shared during these discussions are invaluable in crafting a more inclusive and equitable environment for all.