Bridging the Gender Gap in Tech

With a growing focus on the benefits of a career in technology, there is also more light being shed on the gender gap in our tech workforce. Women account for approximately 30% of the tech workforce, but make $15,000 less on average than men and only 52 women to every 100 men are promoted to a managerial role in tech. More than 50% of women in tech leave their jobs before age 35. These statistics indicate the need to address the gender gap issues in our tech workforce to encourage and support women who are pursuing careers in this lucrative and rewarding field. 

Women in the Tech Workforce 

Research shows that firms where 30% of leaders are women experience a 15% increase in profitability compared to those without women as leaders. Women bring unique viewpoints and fresh approaches to problem-solving, increasing innovation and benefiting the service of the organization’s customers. 

Having women in tech not only promotes equality but also drives business success, fosters innovation, and creates a more vibrant and inclusive tech ecosystem. Below are a few of the roles in tech where women excel and their successes can help to shrink the gender, pay, and promotion gap in tech: 

AI Engineers use cutting-edge tools and advanced methodologies to drive advancements in artificial intelligence. Their responsibilities span creating and deploying AI models, developing algorithms, and optimizing performance, which require proficiency in programming, software engineering, and data science. With competitive salaries averaging $165,000, the field offers women an incredible and profitable opportunity to shape the future of technology. 

Data Scientists transform massive amounts of raw data into actionable insights that guide strategic decision-making. They analyze vast datasets, develop machine learning tools, conduct statistical analysis, and use advanced mathematical techniques to advance their organization’s goals. For women who value collaboration and are interested in analyzing solving complex puzzles, it can be an exciting career. With an average salary nearing $130,000, it remains one of the highest paying and most in-demand careers in tech. 

Cloud Architects design robust infrastructures, implement solutions, and optimize performance to ensure businesses can operate efficiently and securely. Cloud architecture offers women in tech the opportunity to use diverse skills in communications, problem-solving, and technological expertise where average salaries are $125,000.  

IT Project Managers coordinate the resources, timelines, and strategies to ensure successful projects. For women interested in tech, the field enables them to leverage their management, communication, and collaboration skills, while also capitalizing on their strengths of understanding diverse viewpoints and attention to detail. Salaries average roughly $110,000, and as all industries rely heavily on IT project managers, the career offers incredible versatility. 

Security Architects are responsible for designing, building, testing, and implementing security systems within an organization's IT network. They anticipate security risks, identify weaknesses, and respond effectively to breaches, refining IT security infrastructure to safeguard against cyber threats, especially in the context of remote and hybrid workforces. This role demands a strong understanding of information security, knowledge of security protocols, authentication, and risk assessment, along with effective communication and collaboration skills. The field is one of the fastest growing in tech and offers an average salary of $140,000. 

Software Developers create, install, test, and maintain applications, websites, and other software systems. These roles are great for women seeking to leverage a mix of technical and interpersonal skills. Software developers are proficient programmers who can collaborate with clients and end-users to create impactful solutions and often utilize product management skills throughout the lifecycle of a product. Software developers earn $130,000 annually on average and contribute to the development and enhancement of digital solutions across various industries. 

Technical Account Managers connect clients to technical teams to ensure seamless collaboration and customer satisfaction, striving to cultivate long-term customer relationships. As a more customer-facing role, they provide technical support before and after sales, understand client needs, troubleshoot issues, and offer solutions to address technical challenges. Technical account management often enjoy greater work-life balance and flexibility and average salaries nearing $85,000, often with opportunities for commissions and bonuses, making it an appealing career choice for many women. 

Technical Writers can be a great career choice for women with a fine attention to detail and extensive writing and communication skills. These roles translate complex information into user-friendly documentation that enables non-technical audiences to understand product or service functionality. They research topics, create user manuals, and explain technical concepts in-depth. Technical writing offers remote work opportunities, which provides flexibility for individuals seeking more work-life balance, and offers average salaries of more than $86,000. 

UX/UI Designers create digital experiences that define user interactions with technology. UX designers focus on usability and accessibility to craft wireframes and user journeys that guide intuitive and positive interactions. UI designers focus on aesthetics and functionality to bring create an engaging visual story experience. The field offers a unique blend of creativity and problem-solving to marry functionality with visual appeal. Average salaries are $75,000 with many opportunities for advancement. 

Pursuing Your Education and Career in Tech 

Capitol Technology University is a STEM institution and leader in technology education. Our programs are tailored for students to excel in the global tech industries of today and tomorrow. We encourage students to pursue their love of STEM and provide networking and education resources such as our Center for Women in Cyber, which is focused on empowering women of all ages to pursue careers in cyber and seeks to address the growing need for women professionals and leaders in cyber-related fields. For more information on joining Capitol as a cyber student, contact our Admissions team.