Maureen Grosvenor
Careers in ICT-related roles should be increasingly considered by young people looking to have an exciting career where no two days are the same. The industry is enticing and ever-developing: it offers something exciting to learn every day, and constant exposure to different industries – everyone needs ICT! With the internet of things (IoT) and constant development of communications technology, it also offers the potential to work from anywhere in the world to suit your lifestyle. It is a very lucrative industry but on top of that, you get to be part of a trend-setting, future-defining industry.
At least, this has been my experience. I have founded (and subsequently sold) an IT company, worked all over the world, and found myself in the middle of whirlwind industry developments that have opened up new business opportunities. But I have also learned that women in the IT space such as me are few and far between.
The stats say it all
A 2014 survey by the Joburg Centre for Software Engineering (JCSE) of 711 IT practitioners revealed that only 21% of ICT jobs are held by women. Four years later, the landscape has not changed much. If we look at the top IT and technology companies across the globe, names such as Elon Musk, Bill Gates, Steve Jobs, Larry Ellison and Mark Zuckerburg naturally spring to mind. Possibly less publicised are Susan Wojcicki (Youtube), Ginni Rometty (IBM) and Meg Whitman (HP). These are equally history-defining names that have changed the world and are synonymous with innovation. If we look at the stats, it is surprising that these female names are not as famous. The ICT industry should be promoted an equal opportunity industry, and promotion of these names could be a good place to start.
Historically, technology and engineering have been male-dominated careers. However, (at the risk of offending some readers) studies have shown women are generally more tuned into team dynamics and excel at multitasking. Combine that with IT essentials such as problem solving skills, critical thinking and creativity, and it could be argued that women are perfectly suited for careers in technology. Not encouraging women in IT means we are limiting the opportunity to mine that untapped female potential and discover the next tech genius.
It shouldn’t be too hard. It is no longer a prerequisite to have a computer science degree to get into the ICT sector. The industry is so dynamic that the relevant diploma with the right attitude and appetite will get you into this job sector. We need more innovative new ideas and skills in South Africa, and it is becoming less about qualification and more about innovation.
Advice to young women establishing their career is that they should not emulate the characteristics of their male counterparts to feel that that is their path to success. With a no-tolerance approach to any discrimination, every woman needs to develop their own voice. Be firm but empathetic, caring and generous but still demand high standards. Women can empower each other by setting the example and supporting one another.
It is crucial for women to overcome barriers and stereotyping. Be as direct as possible and deliver results regardless of your gender. It’s taken a 33-year career and only now have I find myself part of a respectful, mindful and innovative executive team.
The changing technology landscape
There is a plethora of jobs that did not exist ten years ago, and we can just contemplate the endless possibilities of how the world will change over the next ten years. While fields such as cyber security, social media and mobile development continue to grow, untapped industries such as blockchain and artificial intelligence are emerging and expanding. The future is limitless and there is no shortage of space for women.
Send you comments to engineerit@ee.co.za
