In the rapidly evolving landscape of technology, artificial intelligence (AI) stands as a beacon of innovation, offering transformative potential across industries. Amidst this groundbreaking progress, the vital contributions of women in shaping the future of AI are increasingly evident. In this article, we shine a spotlight on a select group of women who are not only navigating the forefront of AI but are also driving significant waves of change in the tech industry. Through their expertise, leadership, and pioneering initiatives, these women exemplify the diverse and dynamic future of technology. Join us as we delve into their stories, exploring the impact and influence of women making waves in the ever-expanding realm of AI and technology.
The demand for science, technology, engineering and math occupations is expected to grow during the next decade. But even with the growth in opportunities, women remain underrepresented in these fields. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that only 16.7% of the engineering and architecture workforce and 26.9% of employees in computer and mathematical jobs were held by women in 2023.
Employed persons by detailed occupation, sex, race, and Hispanic or Latino ethnicity [Numbers in thousands]
|
Percent of total employed - 2023 |
| Occupation |
Total
employed |
Women |
White |
Black or
African
American |
Asian |
Hispanic
or Latino |
|
Computer and mathematical occupations
|
6,502 |
26.9 |
63.5 |
9.2 |
24.0 |
8.8 |
|
Computer and information research scientists
|
44 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
|
Computer systems analysts
|
513 |
37.8 |
65.5 |
12.0 |
18.3 |
9.4 |
|
Information security analysts
|
231 |
19.3 |
79.3 |
11.1 |
7.9 |
12.6 |
|
Computer programmers
|
402 |
21.5 |
66.1 |
6.5 |
24.2 |
9.9 |
|
Software developers
|
2,134 |
20.2 |
54.6 |
6.5 |
36.2 |
6.0 |
|
Software quality assurance analysts and testers
|
76 |
44.1 |
57.0 |
10.4 |
27.3 |
5.2 |
|
Web developers
|
76 |
19.4 |
84.2 |
1.2 |
9.2 |
20.4 |
|
Web and digital interface designers
|
79 |
42.7 |
82.9 |
3.6 |
7.9 |
5.4 |
|
Computer support specialists
|
687 |
26.2 |
67.0 |
13.2 |
15.0 |
9.7 |
|
Database administrators and architects
|
122 |
30.8 |
58.8 |
10.6 |
29.3 |
2.1 |
|
Network and computer systems administrators
|
202 |
16.7 |
73.2 |
8.6 |
14.7 |
11.6 |
|
Computer network architects
|
104 |
7.7 |
73.7 |
10.9 |
10.7 |
15.5 |
|
Computer occupations, all other
|
1,197 |
26.0 |
66.0 |
12.4 |
18.5 |
11.8 |
|
Actuaries
|
43 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
|
Mathematicians
|
5 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
|
Operations research analysts
|
138 |
55.0 |
68.0 |
16.1 |
13.0 |
8.7 |
|
Statisticians
|
46 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
|
Other mathematical science occupations
|
402 |
50.7 |
63.8 |
7.4 |
24.4 |
8.8 |
|
Architecture and engineering occupations
|
3,602 |
16.7 |
78.0 |
6.1 |
13.1 |
10.1 |
|
Architects, except landscape and naval
|
203 |
31.0 |
83.6 |
3.5 |
10.1 |
11.3 |
|
Landscape architects
|
28 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
|
Surveyors, cartographers, and photogrammetrists
|
44 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
|
Aerospace engineers
|
166 |
15.2 |
75.8 |
8.6 |
12.7 |
3.6 |
|
Agricultural engineers
|
4 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
|
Bioengineers and biomedical engineers
|
26 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
|
Chemical engineers
|
83 |
21.6 |
80.2 |
5.0 |
10.6 |
6.1 |
|
Civil engineers
|
517 |
16.9 |
78.2 |
7.2 |
12.7 |
11.4 |
|
Computer hardware engineers
|
71 |
5.9 |
60.2 |
4.9 |
29.6 |
8.0 |
|
Electrical and electronics engineers
|
250 |
11.6 |
73.9 |
7.7 |
17.4 |
10.1 |
|
Environmental engineers
|
38 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
|
Industrial engineers, including health and safety
|
298 |
24.6 |
78.4 |
6.1 |
12.6 |
10.3 |
|
Marine engineers and naval architects
|
16 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
|
Materials engineers
|
54 |
13.5 |
80.9 |
0.0 |
16.6 |
12.8 |
|
Mechanical engineers
|
433 |
10.1 |
78.9 |
6.2 |
12.8 |
9.5 |
|
Mining and geological engineers, including mining safety engineers
|
10 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
|
Nuclear engineers
|
3 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
|
Petroleum engineers
|
12 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
|
Engineers, all other
|
669 |
15.4 |
72.4 |
5.9 |
18.2 |
9.9 |
|
Architectural and civil drafters
|
33 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
|
Other drafters
|
98 |
20.5 |
88.6 |
3.2 |
8.2 |
8.9 |
|
Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians
|
97 |
11.6 |
88.4 |
2.4 |
8.8 |
17.7 |
|
Other engineering technologists and technicians, except drafters
|
366 |
17.3 |
78.0 |
8.5 |
7.8 |
13.5 |
|
Surveying and mapping technicians
|
87 |
12.0 |
94.8 |
2.3 |
1.5 |
8.7 |
Revisiting the contributions of female entrepreneurs in the realm of Artificial Intelligence, their groundbreaking advances have been instrumental in propelling this technology to new heights. There is no doubt that the way these women in AI are changing the working paradigm is transforming the societal norms for many young girls. As the AI industry snowballs, it's crucial to accentuate the contributions of women in this field. Female AI scientists and professionals have been making waves, and their contributions are invaluable.
Following are some advice from prominent women in engineering whose work has inspired women to become part of the computing world.
1. Take Risks:
- Embrace uncertainty and don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Taking risks often leads to growth and new opportunities.
- Be willing to fail and learn from your mistakes. Every setback is a chance to refine your approach and come back stronger.
- Trust your instincts and have confidence in your abilities. Believe that you have what it takes to succeed, even when faced with challenges.
2. Build Inclusivity:
- Foster a culture of diversity and inclusion within your team and organization. Encourage different perspectives and experiences to drive innovation and creativity.
- Actively seek out opportunities to support and uplift underrepresented voices in the tech industry. Advocate for inclusive hiring practices and mentorship programs.
- Lead by example and champion diversity in all aspects of your work. Be an ally to marginalized groups and use your platform to promote equality and equity.
3. Harness 'Street Cred' in Tech:
- Focus on building a strong reputation based on your expertise and contributions to the field. Establish yourself as a thought leader by sharing your insights through blogs, talks, and publications.
- Cultivate relationships with peers and industry leaders who can vouch for your skills and expertise. Networking and collaboration are key to gaining 'street cred' in tech.
- Stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies in data science. Continuously invest in your professional development to remain relevant and competitive in the industry.
Here is more information about gaining diversity and fostering innovation through diversity:
Winning the fight for female talent , How to gain the diversity edge through inclusive recruitment
Global Diversity and inclusion, Fostering Innovation Through a Diverse Workforce
The future of AI is undeniably intertwined with the remarkable contributions of women who are making waves in technology. Through their groundbreaking advancements, leadership, and advocacy, women are not just shaping the trajectory of AI but also challenging societal norms and inspiring future generations. Their innovative work demonstrates the transformative potential of diversity and inclusion in driving progress and innovation in the tech industry. As we continue to witness the exponential growth of AI, it's imperative to recognize and amplify the voices of women who are at the forefront of this revolution. By celebrating their achievements and supporting their endeavors, we can collectively propel the AI industry forward towards a more inclusive, equitable, and impactful future.
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Samira Gholizadeh
IBM Champion - User group leader and liaison in Women in AI
Mechanical & Materials Scientist
Machine Learning Engineer
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