Jodie Lopez

@JodieWorld

Julia Adamson

Managing Director, Education and Public Benefit At BCS

@AdamsonJulia

I work for a company that makes computer programs for schools, and my job is to help make and advertise those programs.

I used to be a teacher for a long time, and I always liked using technology in the classroom. One day, I went to a meeting where people were talking about how they used Nintendo game systems in schools in Scotland, and that made me interested in finding even more creative ways to use technology in education. When I became a school administrator, I also got to work with some di erent tech companies and startups.

If you’re a young woman who wants to work in tech, my advice is to do your research, connect with people in the industry, go to events, and keep learning new things.

It’s really important to celebrate women who work in tech because they bring di erent experiences and perspectives to the field, and we need all kinds of voices and ideas to make technology work better for everyone.

I am “The Edtech Ninja”, an Edtech Business Consultant. This means that I work with education technology companies to help them create products that are suitable for schools. I use my expertise to ensure that the technology being developed meets the needs of teachers and students. In addition, I also create content such as videos and blogs to support teachers in using technology across di erent subjects in the curriculum.

My journey into tech began because of my visual impairment. Being blind in one eye made typing easier for me than handwriting, so I started using technology to help me with my work. As a teacher, I saw how technology could help students with di erent learning needs access the curriculum. This inspired me to explore more opportunities in the field of edtech and led me to where I am today.

To young women who want to get into the tech industry, I would advise them to keep an open mind and stay curious. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek out new experiences. The tech industry is always evolving, so it’s important to keep learning and adapting to new developments. By celebrating women in tech, we can help promote diversity and ensure that everyone’s voices are heard.

In my own career, I have faced challenges and obstacles, but I have persevered by taking small steps and remaining focused on my goals. I believe that anyone can achieve their dreams, no matter their background or circumstances. So, my final advice to anyone pursuing their dreams is to keep moving forward, even if the steps may seem small at first. With persistence and hard work, anything is possible.

I am the Managing Director, Education and Public Benefit at The British Computing Society (BCS). My role is focused on improving computing education to create better opportunities for young people, society and the economy. I began my career as a primary school teacher, specialising in science and technology, and I became fascinated by the opportunities that tech created for my students.

For young women looking to get into the tech industry, I would advise you to consider if you enjoy finding solutions to challenges and making the world a better, fairer, more sustainable and safer place. Tech is not just about computers and phones, it is a wonderfully varied industry that is involved in medicine, energy, space research, entertainment, transport, farming, fashion and foodit’s key to everything in the future.

It’s important to celebrate women in the tech industry because it inspires more girls to see their future in tech careers. Tech can do great things, but we need diverse views to ensure that solutions are ethical, accountable and competent. Without diversity, tech and data can easily reflect or magnify biases and discriminate against individuals, groups and demographics.

I am a Lecturer of Education (Computing) at Edge Hill University in the UK. My main role is to train people who want to become computer science teachers. I am also involved in research, with a particular interest in programming problem-solving and teacher education.

My journey into tech started when I chose to study computing at school. I’ve always loved the challenge of complex problems and the buzz of figuring out solutions, and that’s what programming is all about. From school, I went on to study computing at college and then got a job as a junior programmer at a consultancy. I stayed in industry for about 15 years, working on a series of fascinating projects and learning new programming languages and technologies. At some point, I realised that I wanted to give something back and pass on what I’d learned to the next generation. That’s why I did an Open University degree in Computing (while still working) and then a PGCE course to retrain as a computer science teacher.

To the next generation of young women looking to get into the tech industry, I would say: Just do it! There are so many di erent roles in the tech industry, and more support than ever before. Do some online research into jobs and courses and then try to talk to people in the industry to find out what experience or qualifications you need. Make a plan and figure out how you can move step by step towards your goals. There are so many organisations and people out there that want to help, so be brave, reach out, and seize opportunities.

It’s essential to celebrate women in the tech industry. I think it’s great for young women to hear the stories of people like them - everyday women with similar interests. There are so many women working with technology doing valuable, rewarding, and challenging work. They are making an impact in a wide range of sectors and specialities – science, finance, medical, education, charity, and researchand it is great to hear from them!

Finally, my advice to those who want to get into tech is to do the research, reach out to organisations and individuals, and find out as much as you can. Don’t spend too long agonising about making the ‘perfect’ decision and don’t be put o by all the buzzwords! Just get a foot in the door, begin getting experience, and you’ll soon find out which bits of the job really feed you. Then you can start to find your passion and go for it!

Paulette Watson Global Tech Disruptor - Founder | Entrepreneur

I am a business professional who started a company called Academy Achievers to improve the educational journey of disadvantaged, disa ected, and vulnerable children and young people. My journey into tech began with my love for computing, math and Business studies in school, which led me to enrol in a Master’s degree in Information Communication Technology and short programming and coding courses. I started teaching Computer Science - GCSE, A Levels and set up Academy Achievers, and now I am leading the Global #BeMedigitalinclusion to raise aspirations for one million global majority women and girls in STEM | Web 3 related careers.

I believe in closing the digital skills gap and would advise young women looking to get into the tech industry to make a list of the companies/organisations they would like to work for, be open- minded, question everything, and use their network to gain experience. They should also read, join communities such as #BeMedigitalinclusion and have fun learning about the di erent possibilities in tech.

Celebrating women in the tech industry is essential because the sector needs talent, and women must have access to develop relevant digital skills to fill workforce gaps and keep up with changing demands. Learning does not stop once one is in the building and feels they have reached it.

In conclusion, let’s make a social impact by building and raising one million global majority women and girls’ aspirations in STEM | Web 3 related careers. As Michelle Obama said, “Success isn’t about how much money you make; it’s about the di erence you make in people’s lives.”

Rebecca Franks

Learner experience designer @Franksbeckyhi

Sukvinder Kathuria

Founder and CEO TechGirls @techgirlsuk

Cyber Security Student & President of CyberWomen@Warwick

I create exciting projects for young people who want to use technology to make something unique and meaningful. I’ve always loved making things, from pencil holders to sewing my own bags and quilts. When I discovered technology, I started using it to create music and websites. After teaching computing for over 15 years, I moved to the charity sector where I design digital projects for young people to follow.

I know that the tech industry can sometimes be intimidating for underestimated groups, which is why I’ve spent the last 10 years learning about issues around inclusion. To young women looking to get into tech, my advice is to surround yourself with a network of strong women who will support and motivate you. Women have unique strengths and passions that can change the world, and it’s crucial to celebrate those making a di erence.

I believe in creating a tech industry where everyone can be their authentic self, and I’m dedicated to making that a reality over the next decade – watch this space!

As the founder and CEO of TechGirls, I work with schools to help girls learn about career options, especially in STEM fields. I do this by running workshops that teach girls about gender balance and the skills needed to work in these industries.

I started my journey in tech by studying computer science at university, even though I wasn’t sure it was what I wanted to do. But I ended up really enjoying it and went on to work in the IT department for the NHS.

My advice to young women looking to get into tech is to remember that coding isn’t the only skill needed in the industry. There are many roles within tech that require di erent skills and it’s a fun and exciting place to work.

It’s important to celebrate women in tech because having relatable role models can make a huge di erence. Women who work in tech are just regular people who have chosen to work in a male-dominated industry. We need to acknowledge their successes and give the next generation the confidence to follow in their footsteps.

Finally, while planning is important, it’s also important to be curious and open to change.

My current job title is student in Cyber Security and President of CyberWomen@ Warwick. As a student, I study Cyber Security, which involves looking into aspects such as cybercrime, coding, and human behaviour regarding cyberattacks. Additionally, I am involved in the CyberPath program, which aims to help small and medium-sized businesses become more cyber-knowledgeable and train us to protect their businesses from cyber incidents.

My journey into tech began when a teacher introduced me to the idea of working in Forensic science but with technology. After taking A-Level and choosing a degree in Cyber Security, I have been exposed to many more parts of the industry and am excited to continue to learn more.

To young women looking to get into the tech industry, I would advise you to understand that you are enough and are capable of achieving so many amazing things in the Cyber Security field as long as you have the passion to do so. There is a path for everyone, whether you have technical experience or not.

It is important to celebrate women in the tech industry because inclusivity starts with everyone. Highlighting female role models and championing their work ensures that it gets the recognition it deserves. CyberWomen@Warwick was created to create a positive learning environment for anyone, regardless of their age, identity, or interest.

It’s never too late to change paths. Stay curious and explore all opportunities that come your way.