Breaking Barriers and Building the Future
Women in tech are making waves, rewriting the narrative, and proving that innovation knows no gender. From coding to cybersecurity, AI to engineering, women continue to shape the industry in powerful ways. But did you know that despite their impact, women still only make up about 28% of the workforce in STEM fields?
On this International Women’s Day, let’s celebrate the achievements of women in tech and highlight five fascinating facts that showcase their impact on the industry.
The First Computer Programmer Was a Woman
Before Silicon Valley even existed, Ada Lovelace was laying the groundwork for computer programming. In the 1800s, she wrote what’s considered the first algorithm, designed for Charles Babbage’s Analytical Engine. Lovelace’s visionary ideas about machines going beyond mere calculations set the stage for modern computing.
Women Pioneered Software Development
During World War II, while men were focused on building hardware, women were leading the charge in software development. The six women who programmed the first electronic computer, ENIAC, were originally hired as “computers” (mathematicians), but they ended up inventing the foundations of software programming. Despite their contributions, their work was largely overlooked for decades.
A Woman Helped Invent Wi-Fi
Next time you connect to Wi-Fi, thank Hedy Lamarr. Known as a Hollywood actress, Lamarr was also an inventor who co-developed a frequency-hopping technology that became the foundation for modern wireless communication, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS. Her contributions went unrecognized for years, but today, she’s hailed as a tech pioneer.
Marian Croak’s Innovations Shaped the Digital World
Dr. Marian Croak is a tech powerhouse whose work has transformed the way we communicate. A pioneer in Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology, Croak’s innovations allowed voice calls to be transmitted over the internet, paving the way for video conferencing, online calls, and digital communication as we know it today.
Beyond VoIP, Croak has been a driving force in the development of technologies that support internet-based services and has played a significant role in expanding online accessibility worldwide. She holds over 200 patents and has led projects that focus on the intersection of technology and social good, including the use of text-to-donate technology for disaster relief efforts. In 2021, her groundbreaking work earned her a place in the National Inventors Hall of Fame, making her one of the few Black women to receive this prestigious recognition.
Women Will Be an Integral Part of Tech in the Future
Despite the challenges, women are securing their place in the tech industry. Organizations like Girls Who Code, Black Girls Code, and Women Who Code are empowering young girls and women to enter the field. While some companies have started rolling back DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) efforts, progress will continue to ensure that women remain represented in tech. A more balanced workforce isn’t just about fairness—it leads to better innovation, problem-solving, and business success.
Keep Up the Progress
On this International Women’s Day, let’s not only celebrate the incredible contributions of women in tech but also commit to ensuring that future generations have even more opportunities. By highlighting these achievements and supporting diversity in tech, we can help bridge the gender gap and create a more inclusive future.
