Women in tech and the AI revolution: a transformative combination

Alongside the AI discussion, the panelists had plenty of advice around empowering and advancing women in tech and promoting diversity and inclusion in tech companies. One key priority, they agreed, was to build and nurture a network of peers. This not only makes for a rich learning experience but can provide encouragement and support to overcome challenges. Ashley Kramer, Chief Strategy and Chief Marketing Officer at Gitlab Inc., says “the networking effect is the most powerful piece to any learning. I am very fortunate to have one and I like to give back as much as I can to others.”

As AI continues to gain traction, for Lumen Technologies’ Johnson, it’s not a matter of losing your job—or your company—to AI, but rather “losing your job and your company to other organizations and people who use AI.”. As the demand for developers and coders is set to increase, notes Gitlab’s Kramer, it is crucial that women are given the training and support to help fill this skills gap.

For women aiming for leadership roles, says Bonita Stewart, Former Gradient and Google VP, Co-lead, Black Angel Group and Board Partner. “Having responsibility for revenue and operating margins can lead to more opportunity to move into leadership.” Also critical to success, she adds, “it’s important to challenge yourself. Be intentional about applying your existing skills but also constantly strive to develop new ones—and don’t be afraid to fail.”

“Don’t view your career path as linear, suggests Salesforce’s Weaver. Sometimes, she explains, you should look sideways or even back for fresh options or a move that you can make, which initially might not seem like a step forward but could in fact open up lots of new opportunity.” And when it comes to promoting diversity and inclusion, adds Stewart, it’s critical to start with acknowledgement—and training. And while this often begins at the top, you also need to listen to, and pay attention, to the ranks.  “We have to lift as we climb.”