Gender stereotypes: In our society, there are often still gender stereotypes that earmark certain professions for women and men. Technical professions are often considered "masculine" and "unfeminine", which can discourage women from choosing a career in this field.
Lack of role models: Since women are often underrepresented in technical professions, many young women lack role models and mentors who can show them that a career in this field is possible and worthwhile.
Unfavourable working conditions: Technical professions often involve long working hours and a heavy workload. Women who have family responsibilities may face particular challenges as a result, which may discourage them from choosing a career in this field.
Education system: The education system can also contribute to women being underrepresented in technical professions. In many countries, there are still gender gaps in education that can result in women having less access to educational opportunities in technical subjects.
Discrimination: Women may also be discouraged from working in technical jobs by discrimination in the workplace. Women may be discriminated against because of their gender or may find themselves in a hostile work environment that makes it difficult for them to succeed.
There are many reasons why women are still underrepresented in technical professions. It is important to recognise these factors and take targeted measures to facilitate women's access to technical professions and to create a more gender-equal working environment.
Women's power in technology: opportunities, perspectives, advantages
Although there are many challenges, women can succeed in tech jobs and build fulfilling careers. This is because the tech industry in general offers many opportunities and benefits that can help them build a fulfilling and successful career path.
- High demand: The technology industry is growing fast and there is a high demand for skilled workers.
- Good pay: Most jobs in the technology industry are well paid.
- Flexibility: Many technology and IT companies offer flexible working conditions, such as remote working, part-time or flexible working hours.
- Innovation: The technology industry is known for its innovative and creative atmosphere
- Career opportunities: There are many career opportunities in the technology industry, including leadership positions and starting your own business.
- Workplace culture: Many companies in the technology sector have an open and inclusive workplace culture that values and supports their employees.
- Opportunity to shape the future: Technology and IT have a major impact on the future and society.
You have the potential to achieve great things in the technology industry! As a recruitment company, we want to help you find your dream job in the male-dominated industry of technology and IT. Take a look at our open positions in these areas.
Nothing for you? Then upload your CV and arrange a free career talk with us. We'll help you find the perfect job that matches your skills and interest.
Career opportunities for women in technology
There are many professions in engineering that can be interesting for women. Here are five suggestions for common professions:
- Female engineer: Female engineers are experts in their respective fields, such as mechanical engineering, electrical engineering or computer science. They develop and design products, processes and systems, plan and monitor their production and are responsible for their operation and maintenance. They often work in interdisciplinary teams and are involved in all phases of a project, from conception to implementation. To enter this profession, you usually need a university degree in engineering or a related field. Internships and initial work experience in the industry can help facilitate entry.
- Technician: Technicians are technical experts who develop and implement technical solutions. They often work in production, maintenance, quality control or product development. They are responsible for ensuring that technical systems, machines and products function properly and are safe. A technical college degree or training in a technical profession (e.g. mechatronics technician) are the most common ways to enter the profession as a technician.
- IT systems electronics technician: IT systems electronics technicians are experts in the installation, maintenance and servicing of IT systems. They plan and configure networks, install and maintain hardware and software components and are responsible for the security of IT systems. They often work in IT departments of companies or in IT service companies. Training as an IT systems electronics technician or a degree in computer science or electrical engineering form the basis for this profession. Internships and initial work experience in the IT sector can help to facilitate entry.
- Industrial engineer: Industrial engineers combine engineering know-how with business knowledge. They often work in product development, product management or production planning and control. They are responsible for ensuring that technical products and processes are economically viable and successful. To enter this profession, you usually need a university degree in industrial engineering or a related field.
- Product developer: Product developers are experts in the development of products from the idea to series production. They work in interdisciplinary teams and are responsible for ensuring that products meet customer requirements and are technically feasible. You plan and coordinate development and are responsible for quality and meeting deadlines. A degree in mechanical engineering, product development or design forms the basis for a career as a product developer.
Action Plan: Successfully start & move up
The technology industry offers many opportunities for women to build a successful career, we now know. Here are some tips that can help women get a foothold in the tech industry and build a successful career.
1. Be brave & believe in yourself!
2. Network within the industry
3. Find yourself role models!
I can do it: Women should encourage themselves to pursue a career in the tech industry and pursue their skills and interests. It is important to realise that stereotypes and gender differences in education or working conditions can be overcome.
Network in the industry: It is important to make contacts in the technology industry to stay up to date and find opportunities for new career paths. Young women can get involved in professional associations and networks or attend conferences and trade fairs to make contacts and learn about current developments and trends.
Find yourself role models: Mentors and supporters can help young women in particular to advance their careers in the technology industry. They can provide valuable advice, feedback and help in exploring new opportunities. Young women should make an effort to find mentors and supporters who are successful in the industry and can help them along the way.
