Breaking barriers: Women in IT and the path to equality

Every year, International Women's Day presents an opportunity to reflect on the progress women have made in various industries and acknowledge the challenges that still exist.

As someone who has transitioned into the IT sector from a completely different industry, I've seen firsthand the importance of empowering women, fostering mentorship, and ensuring gender equality in the workplace.

The importance of representation

One of the first things I noticed when stepping into the world of IT and cybersecurity was the stark gender imbalance. Coming from a childcare background - an industry predominantly female - it was quite an adjustment to find myself in a male-dominated field.

But despite the challenges, I found inspiration in the women around me. Seeing female leaders thriving in this space showed me that it is possible to succeed, even in environments where women are underrepresented.

I was fortunate enough to be part of the Girls Out Loud program, which focuses on mentoring and empowering young women. This initiative highlighted the significant impact that role models and representation have on the younger generation.

Social media has a powerful influence on young minds, and programs like these help girls navigate the pressures and uncertainties they face, ultimately giving them the confidence to pursue careers in fields that may not traditionally be associated with women.

Finding mentors and role models

Transitioning from a different industry meant that I had to find mentors and peers who could guide me in the new field.

When looking for mentors, I always suggest taking some time to settle into a new role before seeking one out. This allows you to understand what you need from the mentorship.

A mentor doesn't always have to be someone you meet with in a formal setting - it can be a peer who offers guidance and support in an organic way. The most important thing is having someone who helps you develop your skills, build confidence, and navigate challenges.

Advice for women starting out in IT

If I were speaking to a young woman entering the IT sector today, my first piece of advice would be: be yourself. There will always be challenges, but the most important thing is to take risks and embrace new opportunities. Don't let fear hold you back from putting yourself forward for projects, leading meetings, or seeking out professional development.

It's natural to experience setbacks in your career, but each challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow. A mindset of curiosity and resilience will take you far. Don't be afraid to ask for feedback - it's how we improve. And remember, confidence comes from experience, so take the leap and try new things.

Building a support system is also crucial early in a career. Even an informal relationship can make a significant difference. Whether it's a manager, a colleague, or someone in a leadership position, having someone to guide you through the ups and downs of your career is invaluable.  
Here at BeyondTrust, we have groups such as "Women & Allies" which provide women with a safe place to discuss any concerns, personal life and empowerment of one another.  It also aims to develop and grow careers for women at BeyondTrust and increase visibility on topics relating to the female experience at the company.  In addition, our monthly "Owning you Voice" conversations program enables women to ensure they have the confidence to raise any issues and highlight opportunities.
However, networking is also incredibly important. Attend industry events, connect with like-minded professionals, and seek out communities that uplift and support women in IT. The more we share our experiences and learn from each other, the stronger we become as professionals.

Looking to the future

For me, the next step in my career is moving into a business partner role, with the ultimate goal of becoming a Vice President of Talent Management. My passion lies in supporting employees, helping them grow, and ensuring that everyone - regardless of gender - has the opportunity to succeed in their careers.

International Women's Day is a reminder that while we've made progress, there's still work to be done. We need to continue highlighting the achievements of women in IT, supporting the next generation, and advocating for equal opportunities in all sectors.

To the women considering a career in IT, I say 'take that leap'. Find your mentors, build your network, and never stop striving for growth. Your voice matters, and your contributions are invaluable. Let's continue breaking barriers together.