Why 'Women in Tech' Is Not Just About Women in Tech: CTO Craft Con 2024 Talk
In my talk at CTO Craft Con 2024, I addressed the critical issue of why 45% of women leave the tech industry within 8 years, a problem rooted not in their capability but in the pervasive cultural challenges they face. Drawing from personal experiences and countless conversations with women in the industry, I unpacked the normalization of subtle discrimination, the unrealistic 'superwoman' expectations placed on women, and the lack of acknowledgment for their expertise and contributions.
I explored how these issues intersect and create a workplace where women are undervalued and overburdened, leading to burnout and attrition. Beyond identifying the problems, I shared actionable steps for fostering inclusivity, such as addressing unconscious biases, creating supportive networks, and understanding the value of diversity in innovation. When teams embrace diverse perspectives, the result is not just a more equitable workplace but better products that represent and serve broader populations.
This session aimed to empower attendees—whether leaders, allies, or peers—with the tools and insights to make meaningful changes within their organizations. You can watch the full talk below:
Thank you to CTO Craft Con for providing a platform to spark these essential conversations. Let’s work together to ensure the tech industry becomes a place where everyone can thrive.
Please get in touch if you have any questions or speaking opportunities!