A new report highlights both rewarding experiences and significant challenges faced by women in technology roles.
- Despite 90% of women finding careers in tech satisfying, an equal percentage report facing gender bias.
- Research by AND Digital shows a stark contrast between the love for tech jobs and the discrimination encountered.
- Women leaders in tech face issues of bias and lack of representation in senior roles.
- Efforts are being made to support and increase female representation in the tech industry.
Recent research from AND Digital reveals a compelling duality for women in technology roles, where 90 per cent of women report finding their careers rewarding, yet an equal number also experience gender bias. This highlights the paradox of pursuing a passion within a field that still presents significant barriers.
According to the ‘Rewards & Resilience’ report by AND Digital, which surveyed over 200 women leaders, there is a mixed landscape of success and ongoing challenges in the tech sector. Published with endorsement from Dame Stephanie Shirley, the report celebrates women’s achievements while advocating for a more gender-diverse industry.
Despite the high job satisfaction, women in tech frequently confront gender bias, with 60 per cent experiencing discrimination. This dual experience clarifies why only a small fraction, around three per cent, consider leaving their tech roles, despite the barriers they face.
Women remain significantly underrepresented in tech, holding a mere 24 per cent of positions, and only five per cent in leadership roles. This imbalance reflects broader societal issues amplified by recent events such as the pandemic and economic strains, which have disproportionately affected women.
AND Digital is actively addressing these challenges through initiatives aimed at bolstering women’s presence in tech. Programs like the AND She Can initiative and flexible working policies are components of this effort, reflecting a commitment to genuine diversity.
Wendy Stonefield, an executive at AND Digital, observes that while progress has been made in integrating female talent, much of it is superficial, driven by external pressures rather than genuine cultural change. She stresses the importance of fostering inclusive workplace cultures that support long-term gender equality.
Efforts to support women in technology are underway, but true cultural change remains crucial for meaningful progress.
