As a current information technology leader boasting a non-traditional path to a technology career, I see the lack of female and minority representation in my chosen field through a unique lens. A lens that, when introduced to others, resonates strongly as a valid take and missing voice.
The topic is important to me because I see the value and benefits offered by a career in technology for, not only all people, but specifically for more people like me. As a twenty+ year technology professional, I’ve seen some things.
Yes, my gender is underrepresented in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) careers. However, I truly believe increasing a female presence in technology and technology-adjacent careers would diabolically impact in a positive way the furtherance of technology on a local-through-global scale.
If not us, then who?
While the flux of technology-career jobs is a measurable reality, the shortage of apt people to fill those jobs is, in my opinion, a self-induced fallacy based on a blatant hand-wringing acceptance that STEM as a career is neither an attractive, nor acceptable choice for women.
Corporations and foundations alike have invested exhaustive resources into ‘STEM for Girls’ campaigns, only to result in persistently declining female representation in those career paths.
IT is not what people think it is
There are a variety of traditional reasons why women say they have chosen to not pursue careers in technology.
Historic barriers
Examples include lack of mentors, lack of female role models, gender bias, derogatory behavior in the workplace, unequal growth opportunities, lesser wage scenarios, and more. These remain valid barriers today, but wait, there’s more.
A lack of understanding
Historic barriers are compelling and valid issues, however based on my research, experience, and interactions over the years I believe it also involves one extremely foundational concern: IT is not what people think it is.
Information technology defined
Given the very definition of ‘information technology’ has not been updated since 1978 by Merriam-Webster, I believe peoples assumptions of an IT career path are wildly different than what an IT career path actually is today. And it’s imperative we change the dialogue and re-introduce an updated, new-and-improved version of this inarguably opportunity-rich industry.
Start listening and learning
Yes, this Bossy Girl’s series will touch on all the aforementioned issues. And (possibly) a surprise, this series at its core is not solely geared toward one particular gender. To meet national need for technical expertise and support, we need all the genders.
However, traditionally, the statistics for females in the STEM workforce show an inadequate representation. And it’s no real surprise that the presence of minority women is even less.
In a perfect world, this new knowledge will attract a substantial number of women to help the industry DNA to match that of the US population, but guys we need you too! No stone will be left unturned in this series’ plea for a simple, yet comprehensive consideration of our industry. Misconceptions will be detailed and a true representation will be revealed.
This ain’t your granddaddy’s IT
It’s different. And the world needs to know this. Technology, as well as all STEM careers, has a place for you!
Sneak peek into the next series entry:
Why IT?
Why is it important to consider information technology (IT) as a career choice at any and all phases throughout ones life journey? Because the opportunities and pathways hold no boundaries. Regardless of past experience with technology or lifelong success (or lack thereof) with math and science, there is room for all at the continuously growing table.
If you are interested in this topic/series, please click the FOLLOW button up top to be alerted as series articles are released.