Technology has become an integral part of our daily lives, and it’s difficult to imagine a world without it. From smartphones to artificial intelligence, technology has revolutionised the way we live, work, and communicate. Despite the tremendous strides made in this field, women remain underrepresented in the tech industry, and the gender gap persists. As we approach International Women’s Day 2023, it’s crucial to highlight the achievements of women in tech and inspire the next generation of women leaders in this field. In this blog, Joe Arday and I have collaborated to showcase the journeys of exceptional women in the tech industry, providing insights and lessons that can inspire students and professionals alike.
While there are already numerous lists out there highlighting the achievements of successful women in tech, these often focus solely on CEOs of international corporations with hefty turnovers. Our aim is to provide something different and showcase women at all stages of their careers, sharing the invaluable lessons they’ve learned along the way. This is not an exhaustive list, but rather a compilation of inspiring stories that demonstrate the remarkable impact women are having in the tech industry.
Additionally, we’ve created a slide deck containing the full interviews that you can easily incorporate into your lessons throughout the year.
So, let’s delve into this inspiring compilation and celebrate the incredible women who have helped to shape the tech landscape.
Abigail Blythe
Course Leader for A level Computer Science
@404AbbiNotFound
As the Course Leader for A level Computer Science, my main responsibility is to ensure that the course is well-structured and organized. This involves planning the curriculum, communicating with exam board professionals, and collaborating with external tech organizations to incorporate real-world industry experience into the course. Additionally, I am also a Lead Professional Development Leader for STEM Learning, where I deliver training to Computer Science teachers and provide coaching and mentoring support.
My passion for technology began at a young age, and I built my first website when I was just nine years old. Throughout my teens, I continued to develop my interest in technology, exploring different aspects like robotics and embedded systems. Although computing technology has always been an essential part of my life, I pursued an undergraduate degree in Politics and Sociology at The University of Warwick and a Masters degree at Exeter University, where I studied the incorporation of non-human elements into the human body and its impact on identity.
To the next generation of young women interested in the tech industry, I would say that you are welcome in the STEM community, and your contributions are much needed and valued. Don’t hesitate to use your mentors as resources to help you achieve your goals. Also, check out the Modern Muse website, which provides access to successful female role models across various STEM-related jobs.
Celebrating women in the tech industry is crucial in breaking down gender stereotypes and making young women feel welcome in STEM. Engaging with strong female role models allows young girls to feel empowered to strive towards their goals.
Annalese Walmsley
Commercial Director
As a Commercial Director in the property technology space, I help tenants find easier and more affordable renting options. I work with letting agents across the UK to enable them to offer deposit-free renting to as many tenants and landlords as possible. I manage a team of Business Development Managers and Account Managers to create a positive rental experience for all.
My journey into tech began when I started my career as a nursery nurse and pursued teaching for three years before relocating to York to work in an insurance company. I later joined a property company and eventually moved into prop-tech as an Operations Manager, then as Business Development Manager, and finally as Regional Sales Manager for a start-up business. Currently, I work as a Commercial Director at flatfair, leading a team that looks at new ways to innovate and ensuring we have the best product.
My advice for young women looking to get into the tech industry is to believe in themselves and their abilities. Although it may appear male-dominated, there are many senior women in property and tech, and women bring unique skill sets to the industry. I prefer to describe myself as an individual in tech, not just a woman in tech, and I make significant contributions on a daily basis.
It is important to celebrate women in the tech industry because research shows that gender bias is still shaping the career choices of young people today. Women were once more often found in administrative or support roles in tech, but this is no longer the case. Recognizing and celebrating women’s achievements in tech can inspire the next generation of women leaders in this field.
Akua Opong
Senior Analyst, Service Management
As a Senior Analyst, I work in the Desktop Services Team at the London Stock Exchange Group. My job is to make sure that all the IT hardware, software and services are working properly, and to help people when they have problems. I work hard to fix issues quickly and make sure everyone is happy with the service they are receiving.
I started my journey in tech by studying Business Studies with Sociology and Religious Studies/Philosophy at university. After that, I completed a BSc in Computing and IT and worked part-time in retail while studying. I have over 8 years of experience in IT, working in different industries from hospitality to consulting to financial services.
My advice for young women who want to work in tech is to network, keep learning and don’t be afraid of the unknown. Dream big and challenge yourself to be the best version of yourself. It’s important to celebrate women in the tech industry because we can empower and inspire each other to achieve great things.
Outside of work, I am passionate about promoting diversity, mental health awareness, and volunteering for various charities. I’m proud to be part of the UK Wellbeing Committee, WIN Community, WIN Tech Network, and STEM Ambassador. I’m also a Team London Ambassador and use technology to drive sustainable development goals and social impact.
Avye Couloute
Maker, Coder, Workshop Leader, Social Entrepreneur, Female Tech Advocate
@girlsintocoding
I am a female tech advocate, social entrepreneur, maker, coder, and workshop leader. I founded Girls Into Coding to empower girls to embark on their own tech journeys and benefit from similar experiences. My role is to encourage more girls to get involved in STEM by providing free hands-on physical computing, robotics, and coding workshops. I believe that all girls should have access to opportunities to learn how to code and develop their making and digital skills, regardless of where they come from.
My journey into tech began when I started attending coding and physical computing workshops at just seven years old, and I started co-running coding workshops to share my skills.
My advice to the next generation of young women looking to get into the tech industry is to not be afraid of being afraid and to take your seat at the table, as you deserve it. I believe it is important to celebrate women in the tech industry because it helps to break down the barriers that prevent girls and women from pursuing careers in this field.
Remember, sometimes you have to be the one to take the lead.
Becky Patel
Head of Education and Learning at Tech She Can
@BeckyPatel86
As the Head of Education and Learning at Tech She Can, my role is to lead a team that creates and delivers exciting lessons to inspire both boys and girls to consider careers in technology.
My journey into tech began when I was a teacher who was passionate about making sure that gender did not limit what my students thought they could achieve.
To the next generation of young women looking to get into the tech industry, I would say: be yourself! There are tech roles that suit people with many different hobbies and passions.
Celebrating women in the tech industry is crucial because you can’t be what you can’t see. By recognising the achievements of women in tech, we encourage and inspire others to follow in their footsteps.
Beverly Clarke
Education Consultant, Coach and Author
@msbclarke
As an education consultant, I help schools and other organizations improve the way they teach and support students. As a coach and mentor, I work one-on-one with people to help them achieve their goals and develop their skills. And as an author, I write books and articles about education and technology.
My interest in tech started in school when I studied computing. I went on to work in corporate IT before transitioning to teaching in schools and colleges. Through my work in education, I became involved in promoting STEM education and developing computing education regionally and nationally.
To young women interested in tech, I would recommend finding a coach or mentor to guide you through your career, and building a professional network to stay informed about developments in the industry.
It’s important to celebrate women in tech because they are currently underrepresented in the field. By highlighting the achievements of women in tech, we can encourage more women to consider careers in this exciting and growing industry.
I wish you all the best in your future tech career!
Caroline Keep
PhD researcher Data Science / Teacher
@KA81
As a PhD researcher in data science and a teacher, my role involves teaching young people how to use technology to create things they want, while also researching ways to improve education using tech. I work in a “geek lab” at Uclan, just like in the movie “Big Hero Six”.
My journey into tech began when I was very young and started taking things apart to see how they worked. I’ve always enjoyed building things and being a “Maker,” and I encourage others to join their local maker communities and attend events to learn from others.
It’s important to celebrate women in the tech industry because we bring different perspectives and ideas, which are crucial to creating technology that works for everyone. Girls often think tech is all about robots and coding, but it’s so much more, including art, healthcare, education, and wellbeing.
My advice to young women is to dream big, be yourself, and don’t be afraid to bring your unique view to tech. As Winston Churchill said, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.”
Dawn Hallybone
Chief Strategy Officer
@dawnhallybone
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 different 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 different experiences and perspectives to the field, and we need all kinds of voices and ideas to make technology work better for everyone.
Jodie Lopez
“The Edtech Ninja” (Edtech Business Consultant)
@JodieWorld
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 different 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 different 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 what 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.
Julia Adamson
Managing Director, Education and Public Benefit At BCS
@AdamsonJulia
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 food – it’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.
Lisa Vintin
Director, Channel Engagement and Oversight, Barclays UK Customer
I am the Director of Channel Engagement and Oversight at Barclays UK Customer. My job involves ensuring that our customers receive excellent service from us, no matter what they need from us. This includes opening new accounts, taking out mortgages or simply transferring money. We work hard to listen to customer feedback and improve our services to make them as accessible and easy to use as possible.
My journey into tech began with a degree in German. I then obtained a role in a German bank, which led me to various roles across investment banking and consumer and retail banking operations. While I am not in a strictly tech role now, I have moved to learn and connect with the evolving demands of customers in an increasingly digital world. I now work to increase our digital support in a way that works for our customers.
To the next generation of young women looking to get into the tech industry, I advise that you don’t feel bound by the rules. There are countless routes you can take through your career. Always be open to new learning, new experiences and building up your knowledge. You never know where it might take you!
I believe it’s important to celebrate women in the tech industry because women have so much to offer. They have historically been in the minority, and although progress has been made, there is still some way to go. Diversity of background and voices makes everyone more successful. Continuing to celebrate women’s success and calling it out often will contribute to that narrative and change views.
Nicola Looker
Lecturer of Education (Computing)
@nalooker
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 realized 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 different 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 organizations 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 research – and 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 organizations and individuals, and find out as much as you can. Don’t spend too long agonizing about making the ‘perfect’ decision and don’t be put off 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, disaffected, 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/organizations 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 different 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 difference you make in people’s lives.”
Rebecca Franks
Learner experience designer
@Franksbeckyhi
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 difference.
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!
Sukvinder Kathuria
Founder and CEO TechGirls
@techgirlsuk
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 different 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 difference. 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.
Sophie Powell
Cyber Security Student & President of CyberWomen@Warwick
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 behavior regarding cyber-attacks. 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.
We really hope you find these profiles useful and can include them in your lessons. If there’s anyone you think should be on this list and isn’t then please reach out – we would love to continue to add to this over time.
Rachel Arthur writes 