Breaking the Glass Ceiling: How Women in Tech Can Send the Elevator Down and Rise to the Top

As we celebrate International Women's Day this year, it is important to acknowledge and address the impact of the digital gender gap on inequality for women and girls. 

To bridge the digital gender gap, we must address the barriers that prevent women from accessing and using technology, including cultural biases, lack of education and infrastructure, and limited resources. These limitations not only affect women's economic opportunities but also their access to education, healthcare, and support systems. To promote inclusion and empowerment, we need education and training programs, supportive work environments, and investments in digital infrastructure and resources for women and girls. 

The technology industry has been dominated by men for decades, but there has been a push towards increasing diversity and inclusion in the field.  

Despite these efforts, women still face many challenges as they progress in their technology careers. One of the most significant challenges is the feeling that the air gets thinner as they move up the career ladder — referring to the increasing difficulty of finding women at higher levels of leadership in technology companies.  

Women are underrepresented in executive positions, with only 21% of technology companies having a female CEO, and only 11% having a female CFO. 

 There are several reasons why the air seems to get thinner for women in technology careers. One reason is the prevalence of gender bias and discrimination in the industry. Women may face discrimination when applying for jobs, promotions, and salary negotiations. Studies have shown that women in technology careers are often paid less than men in similar positions and are less likely to be promoted to executive positions. Additionally, women may face other challenges, such as work-life balance issues, the lack of flexibility in the workplace, and a lack of access to training and development opportunities. 

One of the main reasons for the air getting thinner for women in tech is the lack of support and mentorship for women in the industry. Women often have a harder time finding mentors and sponsors who can help them navigate the complexities of the industry and provide them with the support they need to succeed. 

"The success of every woman should be the inspiration to another. We should raise each other up. Make sure you're very courageous: be strong, be extremely kind, and above all be humble." - Serena Williams 

Despite these challenges, women in technology careers can succeed and thrive. To overcome the feeling that the air is getting thinner, women need to find supportive networks and seek out mentors and sponsors who can provide guidance and support. Women also need to advocate for themselves and their careers, speaking up when they face discrimination or bias and negotiating for fair pay and opportunities for advancement. 

One of the most effective ways for women to support other women in technology careers is by “sending the elevator down.” 

 This means using their own success and privilege to help other women rise in the industry. Women who have achieved success in their careers can help other women by providing guidance, support, and mentorship. 

Mentorship is a crucial aspect of supporting women in technology careers. Women who have experience in the industry can become mentors to younger women, sharing their knowledge and expertise to help them succeed. Mentorship provides younger women with a role model to look up to, someone who has been through similar challenges and can provide guidance and support. 

Women can also support other women by putting their hand up and advocating for them. This means speaking up when they see gender bias or discrimination in the workplace and advocating for equal pay and opportunities for advancement. Women can also use their networks and connections to help other women find job opportunities or make valuable connections in the industry. 

In addition to mentoring and advocacy, women can also support other women by creating a community of support. This can be done through networking events, industry groups, or online communities where women can connect, share their experiences, and support one another. 

Support can come in the form of just simply being an example. Women who have achieved success in their careers can serve as role models for younger women, showing them that it is possible to succeed in the technology industry. By leading by example, women can inspire and motivate other women to pursue their dreams and achieve success in their careers. 

On this International Women's Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to creating a technology industry that is inclusive, equitable, and diverse. Let us break down the barriers that prevent women from accessing and using technology and let us support and elevate women in technology careers. By doing so, we can create a better future for women and girls everywhere.  

 Remember, "Women belong in all places where decisions are being made." - Ruth Bader Ginsburg