The technology sector has long been perceived as a male-dominated field, but the landscape is gradually shifting. Over the past two decades, we’ve witnessed significant changes in the representation and roles of women in tech. Let’s take a closer look at how things have evolved over the last 5, 10, 15, and 20 years, the trends driving these changes, and what we can do to continue this positive momentum.

20 Years Ago: The Early 2000s

In the early 2000s, women in technology were a rarity. The industry was heavily skewed towards men, with women making up a small fraction of the workforce. The barriers to entry were high, and the culture often unwelcoming. However, this period also saw the seeds of change being planted. Initiatives aimed at encouraging girls to pursue STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education began to take root, laying the groundwork for future progress.

15 Years Ago: Mid-2000s

By the mid-2000s, the conversation around diversity in tech started gaining traction. Companies began to recognise the value of diverse teams, not just for ethical reasons but for business performance as well. Despite this, women still faced significant challenges, including gender bias and a lack of role models. However, the rise of social media and online communities provided new platforms for women to connect, share experiences, and support each other.

10 Years Ago: The Early 2010s

The early 2010s marked a turning point. The tech industry saw a surge in initiatives aimed at increasing female participation. Organisations like Girls Who Code and Women Who Tech emerged, providing mentorship, resources, and networking opportunities. The number of women in tech roles began to rise, albeit slowly. Companies started to implement diversity and inclusion policies, and the conversation around gender equality became more mainstream.

5 Years Ago: The Late 2010s

Fast forward to the late 2010s, and the progress became more visible. Women began to occupy more prominent roles in tech companies, from developers to executives. The #MeToo movement also had a significant impact, bringing issues of workplace harassment and discrimination to the forefront. This period saw a growing recognition of the need for systemic change, with more companies committing to gender parity and inclusive cultures.

Today: 2024

As of 2024, the tech industry has made notable strides, but challenges remain. Women now constitute around 26.7% of the tech workforce, and their presence in leadership roles is gradually increasing. However, the gender gap is still evident, particularly in senior positions. Companies with diverse leadership teams tend to perform better, highlighting the importance of continued efforts to promote women into these roles.

Trends and Impact on Leadership

The trends over the past two decades show a clear trajectory towards greater inclusion. More women are entering tech positions, driven by educational initiatives, mentorship programs, and a growing awareness of the benefits of diversity. This influx of talent is slowly but surely impacting leadership dynamics. Women are taking on and being given more leadership roles, bringing diverse perspectives and driving innovation.

The Impact of #MeToo in Tech

The #MeToo movement has had a profound impact on the tech industry. It has brought to light the pervasive issues of harassment and discrimination that many women face in the workplace. This movement has empowered women to speak out and demand change, leading to increased accountability and the implementation of stricter policies to ensure a safer and more inclusive work environment.

Encouraging More Women to Pursue Tech Leadership Roles

To encourage more women to pursue leadership roles in tech, we need to focus on several key strategies. Establishing strong mentorship and sponsorship programs can help women navigate their career paths and prepare for leadership roles. Mentors provide guidance and support, while sponsors actively advocate for women’s advancement within the organisation. Offering leadership training programs specifically designed for women can equip them with the skills and confidence needed to take on senior roles. These programs should address both technical and soft skills, such as negotiation and strategic thinking.

Highlighting successful women leaders in tech can inspire others to follow in their footsteps. Companies should celebrate the achievements of women in leadership and provide platforms for them to share their stories. Creating an inclusive culture where diverse perspectives are valued and respected is crucial. This includes implementing policies that support work-life balance, such as flexible working hours and parental leave, which can make leadership roles more accessible to women. Providing opportunities for women to network with peers and industry leaders can help them build valuable connections and gain insights into leadership roles.

Inspirational Women in Tech

There are many inspiring women in senior technology roles who have paved the way for others. For example, Wendy Redshaw, the Chief Digital Information Officer for Retail Banking at NatWest, has been a trailblazer in digital transformation. Her leadership in integrating innovative technologies into banking services has set a high standard for the industry¹.

Another notable figure is Sheryl Sandberg, the Chief Operating Officer of Facebook (now Meta). Sandberg’s work in scaling Facebook’s operations and her advocacy for women in leadership through her book “Lean In” have made her a prominent role model. Her journey from Google to Facebook showcases the impact of strong leadership and the importance of advocating for gender equality in the workplace.

Ginni Rometty, the former CEO of IBM, is another exemplary leader. Under her leadership, IBM made significant strides in AI and cloud computing. Rometty’s focus on diversity and inclusion initiatives within IBM has left a lasting legacy, demonstrating how inclusive leadership can drive innovation and business success.

Continuing the Momentum

To continue this positive trend, we need to focus on several key areas. Encouraging girls to pursue STEM from an early age is crucial. Schools, universities, and organisations must work together to provide resources and support. Creating strong networks and mentorship opportunities can help women navigate their careers and overcome challenges. Companies must implement and enforce policies that promote diversity and inclusion, from hiring practices to workplace culture. Highlighting the achievements of women in tech can inspire the next generation and challenge stereotypes.

The journey towards gender equality in tech is ongoing, but the progress made so far is promising. By continuing to support and empower women in technology, we can create a more inclusive and innovative industry for everyone.