Women in tech and digital: it's more than possible!

Women in tech and digital have played a role, albeit an often overlooked one. From visionary pioneers to contemporary experts, their impact is undeniable. However, despite the significant contributions of women such as Ada Lovelace, Grace Hopper and Hedy Lamarr, the tech sector remains largely male-dominated. Indeed, only 24% of jobs in the digital professions are held by women.

Let's take a look at the current situation, persistent challenges and initiatives to promote the presence of women in this essential field of Tech.

The historic role of women in Tech and Digital

Let's take a look back at the pioneering women who paved the way in technology. In 1843, Ada Lovelace wrote the first algorithm, laying the foundations of modern computing. Grace Hopper, a computer scientist in the US Navy, revolutionized the field by inventing the first compiler. And who would have thought that actress Hedy Lamarr would also be a major inventor, contributing to the development of Wi-Fi? These women have opened doors and inspired future generations to push back the boundaries of innovation.

The current situation of women in Tech

Despite these historic achievements, women remain vastly under-represented in today's technology sector. Each passing year seems to reproduce the same patterns. French and European technology companies continue to suffer from a glaring lack of female representation. According to the "More Women in Tech" study conducted by McKinsey, the average share of women in this sector barely reached 22% in 2022 within the 27 countries of the European Union. In France, just 14 of the 120 FrenchTech start-ups and scale-ups are headed or founded by women, and none are at the helm of a Next 40 company.

The reasons for this under-representation

Gender stereotypes and unconscious bias:

Gender stereotypes and unconscious biases are major barriers from an early age. This often hinders girls' orientation towards science and technology. In the technology sector, these stereotypes persist. Creating an unwelcoming atmosphere that discourages women from committing themselves fully. What's more, unconscious biases can influence hiring and promotion decisions. This systematically puts women at a disadvantage.

Lack of female models:

The lack of female role models in the technology sector is a tangible reality. With male dominance still marked. Girls and young women can struggle to find inspirational figures to follow. This lack of female representation in management positions discourages women from aspiring to leadership roles, for lack of role models to identify with.

Difficulties reconciling work and private life:

Often associated with demanding work schedules and an intense corporate culture, this field can be difficult to reconcile with family responsibilities. This reality can discourage women from pursuing careers in this field, despite their interest and skills.

Harassment and discrimination:

More than one in two women believe they have already experienced discrimination at work. Harassment and discrimination are also a concern for women working in tech. All too often, they are the victims of inappropriate behavior and discriminatory treatment. This creates a hostile and alienating work environment. These negative experiences can affect women's well-being. But they can also discourage them from staying in the tech sector in the long term.

Initiatives to encourage women in Tech:

Here are a few initiatives that may encourage women to work in tech:

Awareness and education :

• School curricula: Integrate computer science and coding into school curricula from an early age, and offer workshops and clubs for girls.
• Awareness campaigns: Deconstructing gender stereotypes and promoting female role models in the technology sector.
• Conferences and events: Organize events to inspire and encourage women to explore technology careers.

Mentoring and support:

• Mentoring programs: Connecting women with experienced mentors to guide and support them in their careers.
• Support networks: Create networks and communities where women can connect, share experiences and get support.
• Scholarships and grants: Offering financial aid to encourage women to pursue studies and training in the tech field.

Inclusion and diversity:

• Inclusion policies: Implement inclusion and diversity policies in companies to create a more favorable working environment for women.
• Flexible working: Offering flexible working options to facilitate work-life balance.
• Anti-harassment: Implement measures to prevent and combat harassment and discrimination in the technology sector.

Examples of initiatives:

• Girls in Tech: Global organization offering mentoring, education and networking programs for women in tech.
• Women Who Code: Non-profit organization offering coding workshops and training for women.
• Anita Borg Institute: Organization committed to advancing women in technology.

PROGICLEAN: A concrete example of diversity and inclusion in Tech

PROGICLEAN is actively committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in the technology sector. This commitment is reflected in a corporate culture focused on equal opportunities, and in the implementation of specific policies and programs.

• An inclusive environment for all:

PROGICLEAN strives to create an inclusive work environment where women are encouraged to excel and prosper. The company takes no account of applicants' social background, and places the emphasis on human qualities, which are a considerable strength.

• Diversity and mix:

At PROGICLEAN, a large proportion of employees are women. The average age is 32, demonstrating the company's willingness to embrace generational diversity. The company is committed to respecting equal opportunities and valuing everyone's work, regardless of religion, sexual orientation or any other discriminatory criteria.

• Concrete actions for diversity:

PROGICLEAN takes concrete action to break down gender stereotypes and encourage equal opportunities. The company takes on work-study students and works closely with schools to give everyone the opportunity to enter the world of work.

• A strong commitment to society:

PROGICLEAN is also committed to sponsoring athletes such as Priscilla Gneto, Passion Propulsion and 3×3 basketball with Ermont. The company shares the values of surpassing oneself, perseverance and determination that are dear to these athletes.

Progiclean is also committed to supporting JIFA, the International Day of Active Women in Africa, and was present at UNESCO last June. In this way, the company aims to contribute to the emancipation of African women and the recognition of their skills and contributions.

SENEF, publisher of Progiclean, is committed to diversity and inclusion in the technology sector. The company takes concrete action to create an inclusive working environment open to all talents, and also invests in the social fabric by supporting initiatives and causes close to its heart.