The technology industry has been scrutinized for propagating a toxic culture that is fueled by sexual harassment scandals, gender discrimination, and a lack of diversity. Despite all of the disillusionment, there are several organizations that are working within the technology industry to improve the professional lives of women. These organizations— by empowering and supporting women in STEM fields— are more relevant than ever. Check out these organizations below:
Anita Borg Institute
“Women Transform Technology”
The computer scientist Anita Borg founded the Anita Borg Institute, originally called the Institute for Women in Technology, in 1997. The Institute strives to advance women in the technology industry by increasing the visibility and retention of women in the field. The Institute offers events and online networking resources for women wanting to expand their careers and find opportunities to grow their skills.
Women Who Tech
“Bringing together talented and renowned women breaking new ground in technology to transform the world and inspire change.”
Women Who Tech is an organization that started with the intention of changing the women to men ratio in the tech industry by promoting more women in STEM jobs and creating a voice for these women to be heard. Their main goal is to get more women startups founded, and establish more women in leadership positions in the tech industry. Recently, Women Who Tech launched the Women Startup Challenge, that is considered “one of the largest pitch competitions” encouraging women-run tech startups to gain funding and launch.
Women’s Coding Collective
“Power Boosting Women Coders and Creators.”
Women’s Coding Collective is an innovative organization that helps women achieve careers in web development through designated online courses. The organization provides a network of different community members ranging from fellow peers to instructors that help women develop their professional skills while striving to narrow the gender gap in the technology industry.
EdTechWomen
“A Networked Community for Women’s Leadership in Education Technology”
Edtechwomen is comprised of a community of “business experts, technologists, designers, and educators” who lead in the education of women in the technology field. Their main goal is to increase the visibility of women in the technology sector and encourage these women to pursue leadership opportunities within their careers. They host a variety of different events that establish strong communicative skills and networking abilities between each of their chapters, helping their community members get ahead.
Girl Develop It
“Don’t be shy, Develop it”
Girl Develop It is a nonprofit dedicated to providing women access to web and software development opportunities through classes and a network of established community members. The organization offers classes, technological materials, and introductory information on different technology related fields. Their goal is to be a resource to women of all backgrounds and encourage these women to build their goals in computer science and technology industry.