What Percentage of Women Work in Technology?
As of 2024, it was reported that women make up approximately 35% of the tech workforce, a significant improvement from the early 2000s when only 9% of tech roles were held by women. Diversity initiatives, STEM education programs and increased awareness of gender gaps in the industry drive this growth. However, challenges remain, particularly in leadership and technical roles, where women are still underrepresented.
Source: Women Tech Network
Why are Women Underrepresented in Technology?
Women remain underrepresented in technology due to early barriers that persist throughout their careers. A PwC survey of over 2,000 A-level and university students found that the gender gap begins in school and is never fully closed. Only 3% of females consider technology their first career choice, and just 16% have it suggested to them. A lack of information about tech careers and few female role models further discourage young women from entering the field. Without the visibility of successful women in tech, many feel uninspired to pursue these careers, reinforcing the industry's gender imbalance and limiting diversity in innovation.
Source: PwC
Who are the Most Prominent Women in Technology Throughout History?
Throughout history, there have been many pioneering women who have advanced the technology sector. Below are some of the most prominent:
- Ada Lovelace - The first female computer programmer
- Grace Hopper - Created the first accessible computer programming language in English
- Mary Kenneth Keller - The first woman in the US to be awarded a PhD in Computer Science, worked on developing the BASIC programming language
- Hedy Lamarr - Developed the idea that inspired modern-day Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Adele Goldberg - Created the programming language "Smalltalk-80" which inspired the first Apple computer
Source: We Are Tech Women, Women in Tech, Centre for Computing History
Women in technology speakers inspire audiences by challenging the status quo and proving that gender should never be a barrier to success. In an industry where the ratio of men to women is 3:1, and an even wider 4:1 for technical roles, these speakers offer empowerment for underrepresented individuals. With only 26% of AI roles globally held by women, they highlight the importance of diversity, innovation and inclusion. By sharing their journeys, breaking down biases and offering practical strategies, they encourage more women to pursue tech careers, bridging the gender gap and driving a more equitable future.
For expert guidance on who the best women in tech speakers are, make sure to read Champions Speakers' official selection of the Top 15 Inspirational Women in Tech Speakers to Hire - cultivated using verified data from 458 technology speaker event polls between 2021 and 2024!
If you are interested in hiring a women in technology speaker, contact Champions Speakers today! Call a booking agent on 0207 1010 553 or complete our online contact form to begin the hiring process.