Diversity in STEM is key to unlocking innovation and progress

Karolina Pietkiewicz

Communications Lead, Connecting Women in Technology

Underrepresentation of women in STEM stifles innovation and contributes to gender pay gap. The industry needs to continue efforts to build a more inclusive workforce.

Earlier this year, marking the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, the Secretary General of the UN said that “Advancing gender equality in science and technology is essential for building a better future.”

Connecting Women in Technology (CWiT) strives to support building a more inclusive workforce in the technology industry through attracting, promoting and retaining female talent on all levels, from education to executive leadership.

Greater innovation and progress

An inclusive workforce represents diversity of thought, which fuels innovation and progress. A 2018 BCG study showed that the share of the innovation revenue is nearly 20% higher in companies with above-average diversity. 

By encouraging diversity in their teams, companies can limit biases in creation and production processes leading to limited usability by women. Studies show that increased participation of women in STEM can also positively contribute to narrowing a gender pay gap, which, in Ireland, is estimated to be at the level of 14%.

Studies show that increased participation of women in STEM can also positively contribute to narrowing a gender pay gap, which, in Ireland, is estimated to be at the level of 14%. 

Pathway to a more diverse future

Although progress has been made, there is still a great deal for us to achieve to ensure we go above and beyond the targets set to close the inclusion gap. Organisations and the government must continue to apply multifaceted approaches and leverage and support programmes and initiatives run to attract, retain and promote diverse talent across the tech sector. They position Ireland to become a leader in setting the right example for other countries across the world. 

Empowering women 

IDA’s Women in STEM listed CWiT as one of the 21 programmes in Ireland that elevate and advance females in the tech industry. Together with our members and partners we offer a number of targeted programmes to raise the profile of women in the sector. Available career development and networking opportunities support advancement and progression of hundreds of females across all the member companies. 

Additionally, we launch campaigns to raise the profile of women working in the industry to promote a wide array of technical and non-technical roles available. We also run programmes such as Tech Starter or Digital Futures to inspire future generations to take up STEM subjects and roles.