How transformative programmes shaping women’s roles in tech innovation |Explained
In recent years, a multitude of initiatives and programmes have emerged aimed at empowering women in the technology sector. These efforts focus on fostering gender diversity, providing skill-building opportunities, and supporting women’s advancement in technology-related careers. These have been launched to celebrate and empower women in technology.
Various organisations have established STEM-focused affinity groups like “Women in Technology,” “Women in Engineering,” and “She Builds” to create communities that support and encourage women’s representation in technology roles.
“Women have successfully made their way to the top in many sectors, but there is a need for visible female role models in tech-dominated fields for women to pursue careers in these areas. This can have a huge impact on how many women join the tech field as it is always inspiring to see people who you can relate to,” said Deepti Varma, Vice President, of People Experience Technology Amazon India, Japan and Emerging Markets.
“It will inevitably encourage women to try to follow suit as they will feel like not only is it achievable, but that thriving in the industry is possible,” she added.
EMPOWERING FUTURE GENERATIONS
Efforts extend to supporting young women through scholarships and internships. These scholarships aim to assist students pursuing tech-related education, reaching numerous schools and students across regions. Internship programmes offer valuable exposure and opportunities for first-generation learners from smaller towns.
Challenges persist for women in the technology industry, including the need for visible role models, overcoming perceptions about technical roles, and combating biases. To address these challenges:
Providing visible role models: Highlighting female role models is crucial to inspiring and encouraging more women to pursue careers in technology.
Skill development and support: Offering skill-building opportunities, mentorship programmes, and structured guidance can boost women’s confidence and competence in technical roles.
Combatting unconscious bias: Organisations must actively work to counter biases at all levels to retain women in tech roles and support their progression into leadership positions.
PRACTICAL KNOWLEDGE AND LEADERSHIP ROLES
Preparing women for leadership roles involves cultivating practical knowledge. This includes emphasising a well-rounded skill set encompassing business acumen, technical expertise, and operational excellence. Understanding team dynamics, navigating complexities, and global cultural sensitivity are also vital for success in leadership positions.
DEVELOPING LEADERSHIP QUALITIES AMONGST FEMALE EMPLOYEES
Companies should actively foster practical skills and leadership qualities among female employees.
This involves offering updated technical courses, mentorship programs led by industry leaders, exposure within the work environment, and acknowledging personal priorities at different life stages.
ADVICE FOR WOMEN TRANSITIONING TO LEADERSHIP POSITIONS
“Aspirants should seek guidance and insights from mentors, regardless of their gender, who can illuminate their path with valuable support. In order to be an effective leader apart from having the technical skills, one needs to focus on thinking big, having a product mindset and leading with empathy,” said Deepti Varma.
“Companies should have a networking platform for engineering students, to provide them with essential skills interaction, workshops, alumni connections, and job opportunities to build long-term tech careers. In addition, companies should work towards hiring women on career breaks,” she further added.
Through these diverse efforts, various organisations aim to create an environment that attracts women to technology while supporting their growth and success in the industry.
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