Today is International Women's Day 2024, a global day to celebrate the historic achievements of women in culture, technology, and society at large. And as such, it's important to take a moment to reflect on the progress that has been made in the fight for gender equality, as well as the challenges that still lie ahead.

This year's theme is "Inspire Inclusion."  When we inspire others to understand and value women's inclusion, we forge a better world. And when women themselves are inspired to be included, there's a sense of belonging, relevance, and empowerment. Collectively, let's forge a more inclusive world for women.

To commemorate the holiday and celebrate the achievements of women across the technology industry, we've reached out to several tech leaders from various companies. These experts are sharing their advice, insights and perspectives on the achievements and ongoing struggles of women globally, as well as their hopes and aspirations for a better future.

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Caroline Seymour, VP of Storage Product Marketing, Zerto, a Hewlett-Packard Enterprise Company

In honor of International Women’s Day, it’s crucial to both recognize the accomplishments of women and reinforce the need for continued efforts towards gender equality. This year’s theme, “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress,” highlights the challenge of inadequate financing for gender equality. Organizations can invest in women by promoting diversity in decision-making, introducing policies to address gender disparities in wages and advancement, and challenging unconscious biases.  

Proactive measures can include adopting inclusive hiring processes, implementing female-led mentorship programs to support women’s professional development, offering flexible work arrangements, creating a supportive and inclusive work culture, and ensuring equal advancement opportunities for all employees, regardless of gender. These efforts aim to empower women, promote gender equality and foster a more diverse and inclusive workplace so that women thrive in their careers. The lack of gender diversity particularly in the tech industry requires our continuous attention and action.  

Organizations must actively work to address gender inequality — not just through verbal commitment but also through impactful and intentional inclusionary efforts. This is not just important on International Women’s Day but every single day.

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Bhavani Shanmugam, Senior Analyst - Product Success, Vembu Technologies

On this International Women's Day, as I reflect on my journey in the tech industry, I've had the privilege to collaborate with some amazing men and women leaders who have continuously supported my growth. While we've seen women in tech gain more power over time, there are still challenges to overcome in achieving true gender equality. As a woman leader, I understand the importance of mentorship and sharing experiences to empower others. I want young women to know they can break barriers and embrace their worth, knowing they deserve to succeed. Together, we're driving innovation and progress, creating more opportunities for the future. Let's celebrate all women and keep pushing for a world where everyone has a chance to shine. Happy International Women's Day!

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Marlena Fernandez, Vice President of Marketing, Scale Computing

International Women’s Day is more than just a celebration of the remarkable contributions of women in science and technology; it’s also a reminder of the untapped potential represented by women around the world. On this day, we not only acknowledge the trails that were blazed before us, but we also seek to shine a light on the path that lies ahead. By dismantling barriers and amplifying diverse voices, we can unlock the full spectrum of human ingenuity, leading to innovative solutions that are more comprehensive, equitable, and, ultimately, transformative. Diversity of thought breeds groundbreaking solutions, and a truly inclusive tech landscape is one where all minds can contribute, collaborate, and #AccelerateProgress for the betterment of humanity.

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Meredith Frick, Head of Partner Marketing, Object First

The theme for International Women’s Day 2024 is ‘Inspire Inclusion.’ As I reflect on what this day means to me, I look back over my career and remember the peers and leaders who valued inclusion. They were both men and women who sought my feedback, appreciated my point of view, and valued my contributions. I am truly grateful for the impact they had on my personal growth and development. Equally important is living, working, leading, mentoring, and imparting the spirit of inclusion in my life. Every day, I lean into the opportunity to elevate women in my professional and personal life. If we are going to continue to inspire the inclusion we want to see, we must be an integral part of that change. Lead by example, help fellow women across your life be the best version of themselves. Inspire those around you to cultivate a spirit of inclusion - it will be contagious.

When you celebrate International Women's Day this year, proudly wear these symbolic colors:

• Purple signifies justice, dignity, and loyalty to the cause.
• Green symbolizes hope.
• White represents purity.

Let’s celebrate women every day!

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Laura Shafer VP, Product Marketing at 11:11 Systems

The advice I would give to women looking to break into the industry is to believe in your abilities and embrace your strengths. Seek mentors, networks and kindred spirits within the tech community. Sure, the industry's vastness can be daunting, but having experienced guidance can significantly help you navigate the terrain.

No matter what happens, always speak up and be fearless. Stay curious, be bold and don't shy away from opportunities to learn and grow.

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Marcia Dempster, VP, Global MSP and Channel Sales Americas, Keeper Security

I'm truly honored to stand among the many talented women who are driving innovation and progress here at Keeper and across the broader cybersecurity industry. International Women's Day is a moment to reflect on the achievements and progress of women not only in our industry, but worldwide. Let’s continue to leverage our collective strength, knowledge and diverse perspectives to build a future where every woman has the opportunity to thrive. Together, we can inspire inclusion and foster empowerment for future generations. We should all continue to be focused on mentioning women’s names in the rooms that matter.  Always remember, if you’re not included and you feel like you should be, BYO chair and make a space at the table for yourself, and the women around you.  Happy International Women's Day!

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Dana Eisen, Vice President, Human Resources, ControlUp

On International Women's Day, ControlUp is honored to shine a light on the amazing women of ControlUp and across the technology industry who contribute their commitment, passion, leadership and tenacity to our market’s continued success.

At ControlUp, we are honored to have many trailblazing women who make exceptional contributions in sales, marketing, operations, R&D and on our executive leadership team. In fact, we are happy to say we’ve had a significant increase in female representation within our workforce, with a notable addition of women occupying top leadership positions. These women of ControlUp not only demonstrate strength and resilience, but they are helping power our next chapter of growth.

Please join us in celebration of women today, and every day. The struggle for equality belongs to no single person but the collective efforts of everyone who cares about human rights. Let’s all do our part in the coming days and year to make decisions small and big to drive a more just world for women. 

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Britta Loew, Vice President, IPG Operations, IGEL

At IGEL, International Women's Day is more than a date on the calendar; it's a powerful reminder of our collective journey toward gender equality and the necessity of fostering diversity in the workplace and beyond. To address the specific hurdles encountered by women, particularly in tech-centric fields, IGEL has proudly established the IGEL 4 Women in Tech Employee Resource Group. This group leads the charge in elevating awareness through diverse initiatives, including educational workshops, insightful presentations, and dynamic social media campaigns throughout the year. We are encouraged by the robust participation from employees of all genders, demonstrating a unified commitment to advancing equal opportunities for all, both within IGEL and in the wider community. By joining forces, we are dedicated to highlighting the invaluable contributions of women and the critical importance of diversity in creating a more inclusive and fairer workplace.

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Victoria Vlasova, Malware Analyst Team Lead at Kaspersky

The targets of cybercriminals know no bounds, and anyone can fall victim to their schemes. Websites, irrespective of their audience, are vulnerable to mass attacks and what’s particularly concerning is that even reputable platforms can be infiltrated and compromised. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we need to recognize the importance of safeguarding our online presence. It’s essential for women, who often face heightened risks online, to exercise caution when installing software or sharing personal information. It’s a reminder to prioritize our digital safety and empower each other by using reliable cybersecurity measures.

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Kirsten Stoner, Product Strategy Technologist at Veeam
 
Women can inspire inclusion by being there for others. I have been in many boardrooms or done presentations in rooms where it’s all men. Having one woman colleague or even one woman in a room with me during these times makes me feel more confident and encouraged in the content I am presenting. I love when my colleagues support me and my endeavors and if we can do that across the organization, we can truly inspire others on their career journeys to never give up and to believe in themselves.
 
My advice to women in tech is that if you want something bad enough, don’t give up. Keep pushing through any barriers or roadblocks you may face. Continuously learn and challenge yourself. Do not let others tell you ‘how to be’ – be exactly who you want to be.

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Molly Presley, SVP, Global Marketing, Hammerspace

Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to work with outstanding leaders who have challenged me to reach my full potential and achieve great success. Although I entered the tech industry with a strong technical education, I never could have predicted that it would lead me to a position as a senior executive in tech marketing. With the guidance of mentors and dedication to my work, I have become skilled at identifying distinctive product features and messaging that appeal to a wide range of individuals, including tech reviewers, industry professionals, journalists, customers, and end users. One aspect of my journey that holds special meaning for me is being able to mentor women in technology and give back to those who have mentored me.

Despite the increasing presence of women in the tech industry, underrepresentation remains an ongoing concern. As an IT innovator, I have grown to understand the importance of acquiring, nurturing, and retaining exceptional talent. As pioneers in this field, we are responsible for imparting knowledge and serving as mentors for our female colleagues. By empowering and uplifting each other, we can achieve remarkable feats. To young women embarking on a career in technology, I urge you to seek guidance from seasoned mentors, acknowledge your value, remain open to new prospects, and you will pave your own path.

The future is wide open for where technology can take us. The most successful leaders of the future will build a team that empowers the women in their organizations. The result is straightforward: we grow together.

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Rafaela Mazzone, Sr. Product Manager, Connectly

Why is it important for women to join the technology industry?

We can approach this question from two perspectives: moral and practical. From a moral standpoint, many of us can agree that representation and equal opportunities for everyone lead to a more equitable and just society. However, if you find this argument too idealistic, there is also a practical angle to consider.
 
Research has shown a strong correlation between diversity, including gender diversity, and financial performance. This correlation can be attributed to the fact that diverse teams bring a variety of ideas and perspectives to the table, ultimately reducing biases and leading to better decision-making – which translates into financial outcomes for the company.
 
As a product manager, for example, when developing a new product, it is crucial to consider the perspectives of various users, especially those within the target audience. Gender diversity is essential in this context because a male product manager may not fully understand the unique needs and challenges faced by female users. Incorporating diverse perspectives is not just a moral imperative but also a practical necessity for creating successful products and driving business growth.

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Olga Beregovaya, VP of AI and Machine Translation at Smartling

With 34% of the STEM workforce are women and only 14% filling executive positions, it’s obvious we are still pretty far from true diversity in our field. I was recently on a panel where women technology leaders from all walks of life shared their stories, and interestingly, were using the same vernacular, "the only female in the room," "get my voice heard,” "the credit for my work went to a male leader," "had to work extremely hard to prove myself." It’s clear that we must work extra hard to be successful. Having said that, we see more and more very prominent technology leaders, having a very strong voice in the industry and within their companies. My biggest aspiration is that stereotypes and biases will naturally disappear, and DEI graduates from an HR initiative or a corporate quota to the standard MO, where gender is not a factor at all.

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Samantha Clarke, Vice President, Channels and Partnerships, Panasas

International Women’s Day is very near and dear to my heart. The day serves as a time to celebrate the global progress towards equality for women in the workforce and their successes throughout the world.  

The first career advice I was given was to “never pour the tea.” Years later, I realized it’s not about the tea – it’s about remembering and defining what value you are bringing to the room. Anyone can pour the tea, be valuable, be exceptional.  

My advice to women entering the tech world? Be bold; if you don’t ask, you won’t receive. You have the chance to tackle some of the world's biggest challenges here. Seek out leaders who will not only tell you when you have done well, but will also tell you, “you need to get yourself into public speaking training.”  Find mentors who help you see your perceived weaknesses as strengths — for me, it was realizing that empathy has many forms in the business world. And don't forget to give back; mentoring other women has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career.  

I made the big decision recently to join Panasas, a small company with a big journey ahead, because I am excited about what technology can bring to the world’s biggest problems and because the leadership team has believed in me and enabled my success time and time again.   
Woman in technology have advantages and disadvantages, but ultimately, the key is to find a place where you have the platform and colleagues that create an environment where your results speak for themselves.

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Arti Raman, CEO and founder, Portal26 (She/Her)

In my role as a minority tech entrepreneur, I am hyper-cognizant of the diversity gap in my profession. STEM needs ongoing representation to encourage women, but unfortunately, disparities in treatment often push girls and women away.
 
Due to these differences in both educational and professional settings, we’re seeing the number of women in tech roles past the age of 35 cut in half. This concerning trend signals institutional issues like inadequate support and undervaluation of their capabilities. Even with the progress we’ve made, we need to further enhance the visibility and representation of women in STEM roles, as well as create environments that promote trust and collaboration for increased representation.  
 
Furthermore, it is crucial that we recognize the role boys and men can play in advancing this cause. By educating our sons and instilling the correct values from an early age, we can provide the groundwork for gender equality.  
 
On this International Women’s Day, it’s important we recognize that we are shaping the next generation of female entrepreneurs today, and it is our responsibility to do so. Encourage girls and women of any age by applauding achievements made, creating opportunities for growth, and consistently reminding them that they have endless potential.

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Chrissay Brinkmann, Pre Sales Solution Engineer, Leaseweb US

As a female engineer, I see International Women’s Day as a chance to recognize the progress made by women in STEM, while simultaneously stressing the continued importance of equal opportunity and representation in the workplace. Supporting girls who are passionate about STEM, from a young age, is a key piece to accomplishing this while also creating a future where the traditionally male-dominated field of engineering sees greater gender diversity.   

As an engineer, I’m in an industry that is characterized by constant evolution and change; an industry that values diverse ideas and viewpoints. Encouraging greater gender diversity in the industry will only strengthen these values.   

In the future, I hope to see even more women pursuing careers in engineering, and I hope to see this supported by organizations with a focus on girls in STEM initiatives, professional development opportunities and diverse hiring strategies across positions, but specifically in C-suite and other leadership roles. Every day is an opportunity to strengthen the commitment to achieving gender equality.

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Nancy Louisnord, Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), Beekeeper

March 8 marks International Women’s Day, a powerful reminder of the indispensable contributions of women, especially in essential sectors like healthcare and social services, where they represent over 64% of frontline workers. It’s a time to recognize the challenges female shift workers face, particularly working moms, who balance demanding and often stressful schedules alongside family responsibilities. As we celebrate their strength and resilience, we advocate for workplace flexibility and predictable shifts to support their needs.  

To #InspireInclusion and #InvestInWomen, we need tangible actions to dismantle gender bias, starting from the frontline. Emphasizing digital innovation helps provide better technology and equitable practices. Stable shifts, early scheduling notices, and tools for easy shift swaps can significantly aid and empower women in managing work and personal lives effectively.
 
This International Women's Day let's urge business leaders to commit to creating inclusive workplaces where women are valued and empowered. I'm dedicated to supporting frontline workers and bridging the gap between them and businesses. Together, let's honor the perseverance of frontline women during International Women’s Day and applaud leaders who drive positive change.

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Deepika Gajaria, VP of GTM and Strategy, Securin

International Women’s Day is an excellent opportunity to celebrate and champion a more diverse and inclusive future.  
 
I aspire to see people of all genders, backgrounds and identities pursue their passions and explore dynamic career paths within industries like cybersecurity and STEM. Organizations have a critical role that they can play in providing opportunities for the next generation of professionals by investing time, energy, and resources in offering students practical security and research experiences. As adults, we must ensure that this generation is exposed to real-world problems and critical thinking that will prepare them for situations inside and outside the classroom.
 
By encouraging young minds, especially those of young girls, to explore their interests early on, we are actively breaking down the obstacles that once prevented people from following rewarding careers in these fields. This is why I strongly support initiatives like the Living Classroom and Soil&Water, which help to create a sense of community and provide equal opportunities for those who may not have had the privilege to access similar resources.
 
Together, we can create an environment where every aspiring voice is listened to and valued, contributing to a brighter and more inclusive future across all industries.

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Cindy Heiner, CISO, Aiden Technologies

At the beginning of my career, I was often the only woman on the team, in the room, or at the conference. I learned that specializing in one thing and becoming a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in that area allowed my voice to be heard, if only on that topic. In my case, I began specializing in application security and the use of Dynamic Application Security Testing tools. Finding a niche is the best thing I did in my career, and I encourage all women to become an SME in something and develop an intense specialization in it. By carving out that space, you make yourself invaluable to your current and future employers. Then, you can land and expand, your knowledge, your ability, and your influence.
 
In honor of International Women’s Day, I also want to inspire women to find the courage to call out organizations that are not demonstrating gender diversity and use that as a guiding principle for making business decisions. For the last decade, business leaders have heard the message that diversity of thought leads to better business practices, leadership, and company culture, so by now, if they’re not listening to that message and putting it into practice, it seems a conscience choice.  
 
As women, we have the responsibility to highlight the shortcomings of companies with all-male C-Suites and make the decision not to do business with them. When it comes to working for a company that is solely male-led, someone needs to be the woman who shatters conventions and disrupts the existing norms. I recommend asking many questions to determine the motivation behind hiring for gender diversity. Are they truly seeking diversity of thought or just looking for a token female?  
 
Forrester's research from 2023 showed that only 16% of CISOs were female — a mere 3-percentage-point increase from their 2021 research. Currently, women hold less than 30% of jobs in the global cybersecurity industry, and the only way we will get that number closer to equal representation is by stepping up and amplifying our voices. Personalize the message by calling out inequalities at conferences, to conference organizers, in board rooms, and to employers. We only get better by creating meaningful change, and it’s on all of us to achieve that.

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Sara Faatz, Director, Technology Community Relations, Progress

With all of the advancements we’ve seen for women in STEM over the last decade, it can be easy to lose sight of the fact that we’re still depressingly far from true equity. On this International Women’s Day, we should take the time to celebrate the incredible achievements of women in STEM while also thinking deeply about existing barriers, including workplace harassment and discrimination, as well as the ongoing gender pay gap. The fact is that, despite now earning the majority of undergraduate and advanced degrees in the US, women make up just one-third of STEM jobs and barely a quarter of leadership positions. Businesses in the industry must do their part to support upcoming talent and uplift women; after all, diverse perspectives are key to a company’s success.

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Sylvia Zachary, Cybersecurity & Software Director – Secure Communications (SCOM), Cubic Defense

In my current role at Cubic Defense, I am proud to say Human Capital is a priority in all business strategies. Over my career, I have seen incredible changes for the better, such as critical breakthroughs past the infamous glass ceiling.  

Companies have created significant momentum and progress in developing environments that cultivate diversity, inclusion and equity – especially in critical industries like technology, security and public safety. However, there is always more work to be done.  

Organizational leaders today are more open to constructive feedback and wish to foster workplaces that invite talent regardless of gender. This openness to formulating cultures created to understand and promote diversity drives innovation in business solution-making. I have seen teams with this structure overwhelmingly succeed.  

And for the women still looking for their chance to break through, I encourage each of you to remember and value your contributions and accomplishments. Hold faith in your abilities, seek support systems that uplift you and help you achieve your career goals, and be open to embracing constructive criticisms that will help you succeed in the long term.  

As we celebrate International Women's Day, I want women to come together and take the steps towards building these ecosystems, safe spaces, and their strengths that make them formidable. Use your support system, mentors, allies, and advocates, for encouragement and believe in yourself and value your contributions.

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Sam King, CEO, Veracode

The cybersecurity industry has made progress over the last decade with 10% of the workforce being female in 2013 to 25% in 2022. Things are moving in the right direction with more work yet to be done, especially around providing advancement opportunities to women so we see a greater percentage in the C-suite, where there is still a smaller percentage of female representation today. I see a few ways to accelerate the progress of the last decade. First, businesses looking for potential candidates should cast the net beyond STEM backgrounds. From my experience in cyber, there are many useful skill sets that people from a range of backgrounds could bring to the industry. We also need companies and governments to invest more resources into cybersecurity training, internship and apprenticeship programs which can be particularly effective for early stage career candidates. Finally, I believe that one of the most powerful ways to inspire inclusion is through industry networks and support from mentors which is an effective way to elevate the representation of women in senior roles. I have greatly benefited from engaging with and learning from other women in the cybersecurity industry by sharing our experiences and best practices with each other.

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Caroline Vignollet, SVP Research & Development of OneSpan

Since beginning my career, I believe there’s been considerate progress made regarding how women are perceived in the technology industry, and we owe a lot of credit to the women in the industry themselves. However, it’s no secret STEM careers remain male-dominated today. Although Gen Z is more conscientious of the technology skills gap, they are still progressing step-by-step and accepting the fact that we need to take action to challenge the status quo. This can take time, and I do see younger women today develop this subconscious bias that they don’t belong in technology fields – ultimately placing them on alternate career paths. As women, we must swim against the current and approach opportunities objectively in order to discover our passions and pursue the careers that most interest us.

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Allison Arzeno, CEO, Assurance IQ

I chose a field of study and career path that has always been male-dominated. While that has come with some challenges, I have never questioned that women are just as capable as men of succeeding and thriving in any field. In large part this was helped by mentors and leaders I had the privilege of working with.

My career has benefited greatly from working with inclusive leaders and cultures, where I can be my authentic self. For example, I was encouraged to lean into my tendency for optimism, and over time I’ve come to realize that seeing the best in people and situations is one of my greatest strengths. My advice is to seek out managers and companies that encourage you to embrace your unique strengths. I strongly believe in the power of a diverse and inclusive work environment.

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Lisa Box, SVP of Strategic Alliances and Business Development, Identity Digital

This Women’s History Month, I feel driven to share some of the learnings I’ve accrued over my own career as a woman in business. I’ve learned that leadership is action, not position. To be a leader, you must be a servant to others and a guiding light to those who need it. Your attitude, how you speak about topics, and what your body language is communicating will all have more of an impact than you think. Be cognizant of this impact - where you lead, your team will follow. If you are upset, they will be upset, if you are motivated, they will be motivated. This isn’t to say you can’t be vulnerable, it is an absolute skill to be vulnerable, just make sure you are aware of how this vulnerability may impact those who look to you for direction and advice. I think this is especially poignant as we consider uplifting women and creating greater gender equality in the workplace. We have the choice to be a guiding light for other women in our workspaces, current and future, and our positive energy will motivate us all to grow collectively.

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Angie Snow, Principal Industry Advisor, ServiceTitan

Leading an HVAC company for decades and coaching and supporting fellow tradespeople, I’ve witnessed women assume more positions of authority in the Skilled Trades industry. When I started my career, I was often the only woman in the room. Now, we are the decision-makers running successful businesses, keynoting conferences, and helping shape the next generation of the industry. Even so, there’s still more work to do. Technology is helping to equalize the playing field, improve essential functions, attract the best talent, and optimize performance in our roles.

For example, when armed with the appropriate tools and training, like the ability to text customers, customer service representatives (CSRs) successfully converted about 20% of texts to bookings keeping the dispatch board full for field technicians. Additionally, technology streamlines the onboarding process, allowing business leaders to focus on operational excellence and ongoing training efforts, which prove essential in an increasingly competitive business environment. Successfully recruiting new talent could ultimately hinge on access to emerging tools that improve the worker and customer experiences alike.

As women choose a professional direction, my advice this International Women’s Day is to center yourself with a supportive network, whether a mentor or a national group. LadyTitans, a customer-led diversity charter with more than 700 members, has changed the trajectory of the industry through education, apprenticeship, and community. It’s allowed me to grow connections globally and empower fellow women in the trades through education and training, where historically it may not have been possible.

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Viktoria Ruubel, Managing Director of Digital Identity, Veriff

International Women’s Day and this year’s theme, “Inspire Inclusion,” underscores the importance of gender equality in the workforce, especially in STEM and business. Female-founded startups around the world often face significant challenges with securing funding and as a result of this gender discrepancy, female entrepreneurs need more support.

It’s up to us women in leadership roles to build an inclusive future and create opportunities for other women. My main advice to women looking for ways to make an impact and provide the necessary support is to join groups and organizations that allow you to use your experience and knowledge to be part of the solution. For instance, in addition to my work at Veriff, I also spend time at Sie Ventures where I serve as an Expert in Residence, advising female-founded startups or those with female C-level executives on product strategy, from product-market fit to scaling. By looking for opportunities to support women in your own community, what may seem like a small difference can bring major change.

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Candice Frost, Director of Integrated DoD, Raytheon, and RTX Business

Across industries, ensuring the involvement of women at the forefront of workforces and organizations will not only bring refreshed and new perspectives to the table, but it will also inspire younger generations to pursue career paths that are predominantly pursued by men. As skills gaps continue to persist across various fields, the workforce as a whole would benefit tremendously from employees with unique and diversified backgrounds. The cybersecurity field is no exception to this. To make strides toward shrinking any skills gap, a dedicated approach around building opportunities - especially for women in pursuing careers that they often fail to see themselves in, cyber included. Increasing the involvement of current female leaders to step forward and serve as role models for others is imperative. This includes serving as a mentor for K-12 and collegiate education programs creating better awareness around cybersecurity professions and can provide beneficial shadowing opportunities. For example, volunteering with the non-profit, Girls Who Code, offers curriculum-based programs and mentorships tailored to set up women for success early in their cyber careers – encouraging them to take risks while showing their potential

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Stephanie Aceves, Senior Director of Product Management at Tanium

Often, women end up somewhat disillusioned in the IT space when they realize the space was really never made for them. Diversity without inclusion is careless. It's a way to say we've "done our part" without focusing on the longer-term outcomes. One of the reasons we see poor retention for women is because we often limit the focus to diverse recruiting, and often forget to create environments within our companies that are attractive to female team members. We need to act in a way that shows women on the team have a space and are thought of during each phase of their careers, and not overlook the little things, as they often communicate a company's stance more effectively than the "grand gestures".

Speaking from experience, being a woman in the IT space comes with more expectations for the same role. Women who are often the first or only woman on their team are often expected to own increasing the number of women on their team. We are often asked to participate in additional extracurricular activities as a result of being female and while these can boost personal brand, they are often in addition to the full time roles we already hold. If we want to boost representation of women on our teams, we need to stop making it a problem for the women to solve. This is one of the key drivers for burnout in my personal experience.

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Minalma Basnet, Customer Operations Manager at SecurityPal

I’ve been fortunate to be part of a workplace where biases are not an issue — nor are they tolerated. There was one notable instance during an interview where we decided not to proceed with a candidate due to various reasons, including a lack of alignment. One significant factor was the candidate's behavior towards me throughout the interview – he consistently failed to acknowledge my presence, even when I was the one asking questions. It was only pointed out by my co-interviewer later, highlighting the unfair treatment that had occurred.

To cultivate inclusive workplaces, it's critical to acknowledge every individual's presence and treat everyone as equals and with respect. Be mindful of the words you use in conversations, and considerate of others’ needs.

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Shalini Sharma, Chief Legal Officer, Ping Identity

Identify your personal board of directors.  Find them in your personal and professional networks and lean on each other when you need support. Do not forget you have a right to be where you are because you have something meaningful to share to advance the interests of the company.  Leverage your superpower, your diverse perspective.  Be a trailblazer and lift up other women along the way.

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Jen Dewar, Sr. Global Channel Director at Venafi

My advice for women getting started is twofold: get involved and find a mentor. It is important to build your network and find associations that are of interest. Building your network is something that is important to continue throughout your career and the earlier you get started the better. Then, once you have begun to meet individuals, seek out a person (man or woman) who you connect with and has a similar career path you would like to pursue and ask them if they would be your mentor.

An inclusive workplace needs to be a companywide initiative including recruiting, hiring, managing, coaching, and mentorship programs to name a few. It needs to be part of the company culture that involves everyone. Individuals can do their own work, but for significant change to happen it needs to be front in center. Every company should have a DE&I department.

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Erica Cronan, Global Director of Marketing, Datadobi

I love International Women's Day - it's like a global pep rally celebrating how far we ladies have come while firing us up to keep that momentum raging. You can't help but feel inspired thinking about the bold trailblazers throughout history who broke down barriers against all odds. The unstoppable suffragettes, straight-up heroes like RBG, Amelia Earhart, Serena - those unapologetic women heard "no" and "you can't" as a challenge to demolish.

Because of their grit and vision, we now get to chase any ambition without archaic limits or questioning our equality as women. We're CEOs, world leaders, champion athletes - because they kicked open doors that used to be locked shut. Of course, there's still work to be done. But on this day, I like reveling in how women have defied the haters again and again, proving our limitless potential.

IWD means toasting the brave ones before us while channeling that same spirit as we keep forging new paths. The future's looking so bright for women and girls - now that's something worth cheering loud and proud!

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Hana Rivić, Head of AI, Intellias

I believe women and men are equally capable of working in whatever field they choose. For me, it was STEM, and my love for STEM started early in life. I always liked maths, and since the first grade of elementary school, I was amazed by geometry. On that path, what made me successful is persistence and dedication to finding a solution and the ability to recognize where I can get help if needed.

We must inspire inclusion from a young age. Young girls need access to great teachers and education with extra support from mentors, so they can believe in themselves to develop their passions into a profession with no boundaries.

In tech and science-related industries, there needs to be greater opportunities and support for women to excel. This includes increased representation in leadership and technical roles, closing the gender pay gap, fostering inclusive work environments with mentorship and flexibility, encouraging girls and women to pursue STEM education and careers, and recognizing and valuing diverse perspectives. By promoting these measures, we can create a more equitable and inclusive landscape, harnessing the full potential of women's talents for innovation and progress.

Also, I believe universally and in all industries, one of the main challenges women face in their careers is when they take maternity leave. In fast-changing fields, prolonged absence can lead women to fall behind through no fault of their own. I advocate for companies to provide ample support for women upon their return, offering opportunities for learning and catching up to mitigate the impact on their advancement and promotions. I believe as a society, we should work on improving overall work-life balance for everyone and help to close the gaps for any inequality. Inspiring inclusion.

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Wendy Zveglic, VP Engineering, Fluent Commerce

One of the biggest challenges faced by women in tech today is the recruitment process itself. The language used in job descriptions can be crucial in deciding whether to apply for a role. Words like ‘ambitious’, ‘aggressive’ and ‘fast paced’ aren't as neutral as one might think. There are a number of tools that can be used to ensure job descriptions are as unbiased as possible and we use them here at Fluent Commerce. This has to then carry through the hiring process, with interviews being held with multiple team members of different genders and there needs to be a diverse group reviewing hiring decisions.
 
Another challenge is the culture at many organisations – they need to question how inclusive they truly are. Workplaces are often hostile environments for women, so businesses need to play their part in changing this, creating a culture where women feel safe and supported so they can assert themselves and grow. It’s one thing to successfully recruit women into the tech sector, but another to retain them. Organisations should confront unconscious bias, nurture talent, facilitate professional development opportunities, and reevaluate traditional norms to spearhead the change needed.
 
The best thing a woman wanting a career in technology can do is find a culture that supports them. Find the right people and dare to take up space. We are doing ourselves a disservice if we do not confidently share our perspectives. Remember your value and go for it.

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Connie Stack, CEO, Next DLP

As a female CEO, every year, I make special note of International Women's Day. It serves as a reminder of how far women have come and how much further we need to go. In particular, this year, AI stands at the forefront of nearly every tech conversation. AI has the potential to have both a positive and negative impact on gender equality in the workforce, depending on how it is designed, deployed, and regulated. 
 
AI clearly has the potential to both positively and negatively impact gender equality in the workforce, depending on how it's developed, implemented, and regulated. It can help identify and mitigate biases in hiring, promotion, and performance evaluation processes. AI-powered tools and platforms can provide personalized learning and skill development opportunities, helping women acquire in-demand skills for high-tech and traditionally male-dominated fields. Additionally, AI-driven automation can enable more flexible work arrangements, such as remote work and flexible scheduling, which may benefit women who often face greater caregiving responsibilities. Inversely, if algorithms are trained on biased data or developed without appropriate oversight, it may lead to job displacement and widening gender inequalities in the workforce.
 
To ensure that AI supports gender equality in the workforce, it is essential to foster diversity in AI development, transparency and accountability in AI decision-making, and fairness and equality in AI policies and regulations.
 
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Kayla Underkoffler, Lead Security Technologist, HackerOne

The industry of cybersecurity is ever evolving. It’s a constant cat and mouse game between emerging threats and defenders, and in this landscape, diversity in the security community is critical. Without diversity we lose the unique perspectives that spark collaboration, creativity and resilience - essential elements to robust cybersecurity defenses.

But embracing diversity can’t just start when people enter the workforce. To make a real difference in representation, and how we build and secure technology, the principles of gender diversity and inclusion must be instilled early. Young girls need opportunities to learn technical skills. But, more importantly, their interests must be nurtured by the adults in their lives — both men and women; our culture must make space and encourage girls to embrace those skills.  

While we’re getting closer, we still haven’t achieved gender parity in technical fields. I believe the first step is building a culture that better supports women throughout their lives to embrace their natural technical abilities.

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Rachel Sterling, CMO, Identity Digital

As we take time this month to appreciate women and their unique historical achievements, I would like to share leadership advice I have accumulated over my career, to help other women looking to uplift themselves and their teammates. I make it a priority to ensure my work ethics align with what I call  the three C’s of advice:

• Care: Show you care for the folks that work with you. What do they like about their jobs? What do they want to do with their careers? What are their challenges at home and at work? How can you help them surmount those challenges? People who feel cared for will get more out of their roles and will work harder.
• Competency: Show that you know what you’re talking about. To be a good leader, you should understand the nuance of each person on your team’s role so that you can provide them with relevant guidance. Competency and deep role-related knowledge will build trust amongst your team members.
• Charisma: Remember to have fun. When work is a drag, everyone drags. If people are having fun and enjoy meeting with you, they will seek you out to learn from you and you will build lifelong relationships along the way.

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Helena Schwenk, VP Chief Data & Analytics Officer, Exasol

Although there is still work that needs to be done to attract and retain female talent in STEM fields, we have come a long way. At the beginning of my career, I experienced a lot of the issues women have faced in male-dominated industries. I was frequently the only woman in the room and I felt I needed to prove myself more than my male counterparts. At the time, it was also common to view women who had families as people who were less committed to their careers, and for me, that couldn’t have been further from the truth.

I am grateful these attitudes have changed, and I’m encouraged by the progress I’ve seen, particularly in terms of improved parental leave policies and work-life balance initiatives. It will continue to be important to offer flexible work arrangements to support people from all backgrounds. Not only will this increase the inclusiveness of STEM fields, but these diverse voices and the skillsets they have will also help drive tech innovation.

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Shanthi Rajan, CEO, Linarc

Leading a tech company as a woman has been a lesson in ignoring and then surmounting those preconceived notions about gender and innovation. Of course, gender is irrelevant in tech; it's always been the best ideas and solutions that have propelled the industry forward. As a CEO, I don't aspire to mimic my male counterparts; I strive to redefine leadership by embracing qualities often dismissed as 'feminine.' The way I see it, collaboration, empathy, and intuition have been just as important as my tech acumen in achieving success. On International Women's Day, let's celebrate the women in tech, because it isn't just a man's world. It's an open universe for everyone.

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Rebecca Morgans, Director, Global Marketing, Zadara

I chose to build my career in the technology sector which remains male dominated. I’ve accomplished many growth milestones, even though there were times when I faced challenges along the way. When I think of what International Women’s Day means to me, it's a reminder that whilst there is still a way to go to achieve equality, those challenges were never roadblocks, but opportunities for growth and transformation.

International Women's Day is a celebration of breaking down barriers and the unwavering spirit of womanhood. Today, I celebrate the remarkable women determined to defy societal expectations and do everything they knew they could. Every “no” overcome has paved the way for a more equitable and empowered future for every woman everywhere.

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Ravit Sadeh, Senior Director of Product Management, CTERA

My Unexpected Ally - How AI Became my Secret Weapon

Technology and I weren't exactly besties. As a busy professional, it often felt like just another demand on my already stretched plate. But then, AI caught my eye. Suddenly, the same woman who once found tech a little too “everything, everywhere, all at once” was diving into the depths of AI, fueled by curiosity and a growing passion to learn how it could streamline my life.

What surprised me most wasn't the sheer potential of AI, but its ability to empower me beyond the realm of professional tasks. See, like many women, I struggle with the ever-present "imposter syndrome." But what if I told you I found a solution, namely, AI-powered personal growth coaches? No more harsh criticism, only intelligent, emotionally-aware feedback from NLP models. Imagine an AI advisor whispering words of encouragement, nudging me past writer's block and into a creative flow. No more staring at the blank page, paralyzed by indecision.

This, in my personal opinion, is the true power of AI for women. It's not just about automating tasks; it's about amplifying our strengths, easing our burdens, and fueling our ambitions. It's a supportive partner, a gentle nudge in the right direction, a voice that whispers, "You can do it" when our own voice falters.
So, to my fellow women, let's rewrite the narrative. Let's embrace AI, not as a tech trend, but as a tool designed to unlock our full potential. Let's reclaim our rightful place in the AI landscape and build a world that reflects our multifaceted lives and limitless potential.

This journey I'm on, this power I'm discovering – it's not widely spoken about, but I believe it deserves a voice. Join me in raising awareness, and together, let's unlock the true power of AI for women.

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Petra Bracko Mitchell, President and CEO of Catalyst Connection (Part of the MEP National Network)

As a woman in engineering who has chosen a career leading in manufacturing operations, I've learned that success certainly isn't guaranteed; it's forged through dedication and a refusal to accept barriers as limitations. Every obstacle I've encountered on the way to my position today has only fueled my determination to do what I can to carve out spaces where women can thrive.
 
I know my journey echoes that of countless women who have defied the status quo, and on this International Women's Day I simply want to celebrate how far we've come, while acknowledging the strength and spirit that propels women forward every day. Together, today’s women are opening up opportunities for future generations, hopefully reminding them that with perseverance and passion, they too can engineer their dreams into reality.

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Danya Iyengar, Global Director, Human Resources, Index Engines

It’s an exciting time for us women! We have made significant strides in technology inventions, challenging stereotypes, and reshaping the landscape of the industry. Women in technology have played instrumental roles in designing innovative solutions, fostering diversity of thought, and inspiring the next generation of female leaders in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). We have shattered glass ceilings, proving that gender is not a barrier to making groundbreaking advancements. In our organization, the contributions of our female colleagues have been pivotal in fields ranging from artificial intelligence and cybersecurity to software development and the war on ransomware. All our efforts as women, are key in cultivating a tech industry, that reflects the diverse perspectives and talents of all its professionals.

The role of women in technology, extends beyond technical positions to include vital roles within Human Resources (HR). HR in the technology sector, often plays a crucial role in designing and implementing strategies to attract, retain, and promote talent sans gender bias. Women in tech focused HR roles, contribute significantly to building equitable and innovative workplaces that empower everyone to thrive.

As we celebrate these breakthroughs, it is evident that the continued inclusion of women in technology not only brings diverse perspectives but also propels the industry towards greater creativity, efficiency, and social impact.

"With great dreams and expectations, come great accomplishments. Let’s empower limitless possibilities. Let’s redefine success and reach beyond the stars."

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Bhavani Vangala, Vice President of Engineering at Onymos

We have seen growing recognition of the value of diversity in the technology industry over the past decade. However, while there has been progress, there are still significant strides to be made in relation to gender equity. For instance, external stereotypes persist, which perpetuate outdated standards that hinder women’s advancement in the industry — like those around child or elder care. It is important to remember that in technology, success requires brainwork. Brainwork is something that is not determined by gender but, rather, capability. It doesn’t hinge upon an individual’s commitments outside of work. This means we must continue to challenge the stereotypes and biases women encounter in the workplace, and embrace hiring processes that value diversity and only focus on skill and potential. We also must continue to build cultures within the technology industry that celebrate the contributions of all individuals — regardless of gender — and what they each bring to the table. Valuing gender equity and diversity within the tech sector not only equips companies with a strategic edge in attracting top talent but also fosters the development of more inclusive and equitable technological solutions. Ultimately, this approach ensures broader perspectives are considered, leading to innovations that benefit everyone.

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Lucy Ge, Software Engineer at Alluxio
 
Each person is born with a set of poker cards in our hands to play through our life, each equipped with unique capabilities, but also presented with unique challenges to navigate through. Being a woman is one of those cards. We’ve seen many having played this card really well with its uniqueness, and in turn reshaped society as well as the tech industry in a positive way. On International Women’s Day, I’d like to say that I treasure the uniqueness of the card very much, and I’d like to continue doing so for generations to come. 

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Dipti Borkar, Vice President & General Manager, Fabric Strategic ISVs, Azure Databricks & App Dev at Microsoft

As we celebrate International Women's Day, it's crucial to recognize the remarkable strides women have made in leadership roles across various industries, including the dynamic realm of technology. Being a woman in leadership means navigating a path filled with both challenges and opportunities. I'm grateful for all those who paved the way for me and I try to do my part to foster and encourage the next generation women in tech and leadership.

In technology, where gender disparities persist, women often face a range of challenges. However, with perseverance and resilience, they can break through barriers and thrive in leadership positions.

Here are a few pieces of advice for women in technology aspiring to leadership roles:

1. Embrace Your Uniqueness: Embrace your unique experiences and viewpoints, and use them to drive innovation and positive change within your organization especially leveraging your strength in your area of expertise.
2. Build Strong Networks: Surround yourself with a supportive network of mentors, colleagues, and peers who can offer guidance, share experiences, and advocate for your advancement. Networking within and beyond your organization can open doors to new opportunities.
3. Continuous Learning: The technology landscape is constantly evolving. Never stop learning. Stay up to speed with the latest trends, tools, and skills relevant to your field. Invest in continuous learning and professional development to remain competitive and adaptable. Change is the only constant, embrace it.
   

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Rebecca Clay, VP Client Success, Virdee
 
With my entire career being tech, I have primarily worked in male dominated fields. Over the years, I have enjoyed seeing a pivot in the tech start-up space where women are becoming more prevalent. Women are increasingly filling leadership roles and showing how effective we are in engineering and technical fields. It has been an uphill battle, so the acceptance of women in engineering and technical roles is something very special to me.
 
I think International Women’s Day is calling companies to be inclusive and find diverse talent. Employing a range of unique individuals allows a company to have a dynamic team. Diverse voices help us to provide the best care to all customers, which is super important.

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Two large issues women face within the STEM field are a lack of representation and scarcity of resources essential for their advancement. These hurdles result in various systemic issues, including a lack of mentorship opportunities and uncertainty around potential career opportunities. Furthermore, women are often forced to navigate the precarious balance between nurturing their professional ambitions and fulfilling their roles as mothers.Addressing these systemic issues requires a concerted effort on the part of organizations, marked by deliberate policies and initiatives geared towards fostering inclusivity and curbing female attrition. These measures include offering maternity benefits, such as family leave policies and structured return-to-work programs, as well as making a steadfast commitment to amplifying the recruitment and advancement of women through tailored coaching and mentorship initiatives. In my journey at Tredence, I am privileged to benefit from a supportive ecosystem wherein my manager serves as a staunch advocate for female voices, I have access to a mentorship program dedicated to nurturing my leadership capabilities, and I can be part of a supportive team that embraces my role as a mother outside of the workplace.

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Jillian Harris, Head of Product and Design, Keepingly

Empowerment comes with knowledge, support, and the right tools. I am proud to work with a pioneering proptech company that allows me to be a champion for women in the realm of homeownership through advancements in technology.

On this International Women's Day, I celebrate the progress we've made towards gender equality, but also acknowledge the road ahead. I am inspired by the strength, creativity, and resilience of women everywhere, and pledge to continue their efforts in supporting not just women in homeownership but also in fostering a culture of equality and diversity within the tech space.

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Gabrielle Connolly, Customer Success Manager, Environmental Health & Safety, Intenseye

International Women’s Day is a great reminder that embracing gender (and all forms of) diversity isn’t just a moral imperative, it’s also a smart business decision. This seems to be especially true for companies in manufacturing, technology, and other high-risk and/or notably innovative industries where the need to solve complex, urgent, and critically consequential problems is omnipresent. There is an overwhelming amount of evidence to suggest that as women, we bring diverse perspectives, experiences, and skills that strongly correlate with successful problem-solving, among other undeniable strengths that are good for business.

While it’s a shame that women remain significantly underrepresented in areas that stand to benefit so heavily from what we bring to the table, I’m proud and grateful to be in a position where I’m proud and grateful to be in a position where I can make an impact. Occupational health and safety can be a challenging field, but I get to work every day knowing I'm making someone's life better.

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Paulina Nawrocka, Project Manager of DPX at Catalogic

As a Project Manager at Catalogic, I see daily how our empathetic leadership and superior communication enrich tech innovation. This International Women's Day, I want to highlight qualities that women bring to the forefront. Our empathy enhances team dynamics, making complex projects more manageable and successful. Equally, our knack for communication ensures projects stay on track, fostering a collaborative environment where every member feels heard. At Catalogic, we understand these strengths drive our industry forward, creating solutions that are not only innovative but also inclusive. By valuing and leveraging these female-led attributes, we champion a tech world that thrives on diversity and excellence. Let's acknowledge the role of women in shaping a future where technology is for everyone.

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Supriya Goswami, VP of Product Marketing at Whatfix

This International Women's Day, the theme of "Inspire Inclusivity" resonates deeply within the tech industry, particularly in the context of women returning to STEM fields after career breaks. It is required for companies to focus and recast the process that promotes women's return to work. Companies fostering an environment that values diverse experiences and perspectives not only champion gender equality but also drive innovation and growth.
 
As the pace of technological advancement increases, it's imperative for women on career breaks to proactively stay abreast of industry trends and enhancements. Upskilling and continuous learning become pivotal in ensuring they return as competitive, valuable members of the tech community.  As the whole world celebrates International Women's Day, let's commit to creating more inclusive workplaces where every woman has the opportunity to pursue her career ambitions, irrespective of the pauses life may require.

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Chrystal Taylor, Community Evangelist at SolarWinds

International Women's Day is an opportunity to speak to the representation, success, and treatment of women, of course, but we should not forget that these incredible women have accomplished much in their fields. This representation is incredibly important in drawing more women to the field, especially when we give space to these women to speak intelligently on their area of expertise in the same way that many men do. A diverse team allows for ongoing conversations to improve the culture of the team and the work you're doing together, which can lead to improved morale, more thorough project outcomes, and more.

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Helen Rosborough, Product Manager, Flatiron Software Co.

Whilst researching for an upcoming project, our team discovered that a woman’s pull-requests are less likely to be accepted than those created by men if her gender is identifiable. This unconscious bias within the tech industry can be filtered down into so many instances, especially performance reviews and overall career progression. With the rise of AI and emerging technologies, I am very excited at the potential of the products of the future. As new opportunities and experiences open to the world, we use our skills and resources to benefit everyone. My team is even doing this now by using data-backed insights to remove bias from all aspects of performance feedback and encourage women in tech to reach their full potential.

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Chelsea Pyrzenski, Global Chief People Officer at WalkMe

My hope is that women continue to pioneer and advocate for one another and ourselves. That women around the world know, believe, and understand that they have the power, influence, and knowledge to own and be whatever and whoever they want to be. My hope for a better future also leads to a world where women can get the healthcare, education, and support they need, no matter their situation or where they live around the world.

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Nayaki Nayyar, CEO of Securonix
 
On this International Women's Day, we honor the strides made in recognizing and celebrating the achievements of women globally, while also acknowledging the ongoing journey towards greater inclusion and equality. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this progress. However, I recognize that my position should not be considered ‘unique’ in the cybersecurity industry. It's imperative that we strive for a future where diversity in leadership is the norm rather than the exception. While strides have been made, there is still much work to be done.
 
To advance women in cybersecurity, we must prioritize investing in the next generation of young women from an early age, actively advocating for leadership positions and pathways that lead women to the corner office and shifting towards skills-centric hiring that places the focus on the potential and capabilities of individuals rather than solely their credentials.
 
Let’s use this International Women's Day as a catalyst for change, a moment to amplify our collective voices in support of diversity and empowerment. Together, we can make the cybersecurity industry, and the world, a more inclusive and powerful place where diversity in leadership is a given, not the exception.

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Kamakshi Narayan, Director of Product Management at SnapLogic

My biggest advice to women entering the technology industry is to embrace every opportunity and lesson along your journey. Stand firm, but welcome early feedback and use it as a catalyst for growth and to build your character and path forward. Connect with others, whether within your organization or beyond, seek help, and remain open and receptive to every new opportunity. In the hustle of life, recognize that valuable chances may come when you least expect them.

As women, we inherently have a strong sense of judgment and problem-solving. Generally speaking, we have more humility, empathy and patience when it comes to identifying and understanding user or customer problems. These innate qualities, when applied as filters to the lens of problem-solving, bring clarity to crafting effective solutions. My hope is to empower women to recognize the power of their unique and diversified perspectives and encourage them to apply these strengths in shaping their own professional journeys.

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Laura Hanson, Chief Human Resources Officer, insightsoftware

As we acknowledge Women’s History Month this March, we must look at specific fields that continue to struggle with recruiting female leaders and the diverse perspectives they can offer across different lines of work. For example, finance is at the core of many organizations. Beyond standard economic and analytical skills, this discipline requires great communication and relationship-building capabilities with individuals, boards, investors, and employees. Unfortunately, there’s currently a declining workforce in finance, largely in part because of an acute shortage of CPAs. Women who are curious, thoughtful, logical, and measured can make a real difference in the industry and help with this crisis, yet doing so requires us to address the issue at hand.It’s no secret that finance is traditionally a male-oriented field. Sadly, many women hesitate to pursue a role in finance, primarily due to a lack of mentorship and support as well as challenges with work-life balance. Organizations, as a whole, need to learn how to address these problems, whether that be through building mentoring programs, reviewing paid time off or part-time policies, targeting MBA programs with high proportions of females, or highlighting women in finance to draw future candidates to organizations. More now than ever, females have the ability to make a real and meaningful impact in the finance profession. Organizations need to start searching for incumbents who demonstrate the potential to excel in finance roles and take steps to mitigate their concerns. Only then can we truly begin to recognize that the finance industry is rife for more female representation.

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Kisha Thompson, Chief People Officer, ConnectWise

Throughout history, we have seen many examples of women breaking barriers, revolutionizing techniques, and paving the way for greatness. Now, imagine if all trailblazing females were ingrained across all aspects of organizations. Events like International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month serve as a great reminder of how true innovation is unlocked when diverse opinions are exchanged to solve problems. When inclusion is inspiring and not a "check the box" exercise, it ignites innovation across entire teams.  

While I feel we are moving in the right direction, there is still work to be done to encourage inclusion in the workplace. Advisor councils, in all industries, exist for a reason - we intrinsically understand the need to gather differing expertise and perspectives to solve problems. However, this same approach needs to apply within our own organizations as well. Only then can we truly begin to learn from each other's contributions and inspire the next generation of females. 

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