How do we get more women in to technology professions?

 



Men need to continue to support women in the workplace. This means seeking personal awareness of innate biases that are, by definition, not easy to address. Asking other people whether there is a need to moderate behaviours; for example, asking self-aware questions like “Was I over-simplifying/explaining that?”, is a good place to start.

Sometimes, supporting women simply means holding women forward, when they are qualified and capable of a job, but are perhaps not the first name that comes to mind.

Equally and importantly, women need to avoid assumptions about other women’s abilities. As women, there is a need to reflect on our perceptions of expertise. We, men and women, need to avoid assumptions about the capabilities, interests, and knowledge of others based on gender.

In the end, this challenge asks us to speak up for ourselves and for others – regardless of our gender. With a better balance of men and women in all STEM industries, we can look forward to a world of innovation and learning that benefits from the qualities and perspectives of all the world’s population.
Location: Parkville VIC 3010, Australia

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