Research highlights persistent gender challenges in the tech industry.
- 74% of women in tech experience negative treatment at work due to gender.
- Despite challenges, 85% believe the industry is becoming more welcoming.
- Diversity initiatives have played a crucial role in improving inclusivity.
- Continued efforts are needed to tackle gender disparity in tech roles.
A recent survey by NTT DATA UK reveals that a significant 74% of female tech workers have encountered negative experiences in their workplaces owing to their gender. This statistic underscores the ongoing challenges that women face in a traditionally male-dominated sector.
Despite these barriers, there is a growing optimism within the tech industry, as 85% of survey respondents acknowledge an improvement in the inclusiveness of the sector over the past decade. This positive change is largely attributed to the rise of diversity initiatives. Such programmes, like NTT DATA’s route2work, which finances female participation in digital skills academies, are instrumental in making the industry more inclusive. An appreciable 63% of women and 68% of men concur that these initiatives are key contributors to this progress.
There is also recognition of increased workplace flexibility as a factor enhancing women’s experiences in tech, cited by 48% of women and 54% of men. Nevertheless, persistent issues remain; 59% of women reported being spoken down to, 49% faced biased behaviour, and 34% experienced discrimination based on gender, race, sexuality, or age.
These negative experiences contribute to the disproportionate representation of women in STEM roles, with only 23% being female according to a report by PwC. To combat this gender imbalance, there is strong support for grassroots STEM programmes aimed at encouraging girls to explore technology from an early age, endorsed by 77% of women and 69% of men. Additionally, championing women leaders in technology enjoys support from 65% of women, alongside promoting more sponsorships, paid internships, and grants for women to enter tech roles, supported by 62%.
The misconception of the tech sector as a ‘men’s club’ remains prevalent, with 57% of men advocating for this perception to be challenged. Industry leaders like Vicki Chauhan and Kim Gray emphasise the importance of fostering inclusive cultures and tangible measures to attract and retain women in tech jobs. Chauhan remarks, “We should be proud of our sector’s progress but must not become complacent.” Gray adds a call to action for tech businesses to create welcoming environments for all potential talent.
Ongoing efforts and initiatives remain crucial to advancing gender inclusivity in the tech industry.
