- International Women’s Day is celebrated each year on March 8th to acknowledge the achievements of women and their contributions to society, in addition to driving general awareness about the continuing endeavor for gender equality.
- On Women’s Day 2024, Spiceworks got in touch with leaders across the globe to discuss the growing importance of inclusion in bolstering innovation and breaking barriers.
According to a 2023 report by Forbes, a little more than 25% of jobs in the sector were held by women. However, another study by McKinsey has stated that businesses with greater gender diversity were likely to have a 15% average improvement in terms of performance. Diverse teams have been seen to provide improvements in innovation, economic growth, and product design. The tech industry, which men have long dominated, has recognized the importance of improving gender diversity.
So, on the occasion of International Women’s Day, let us hear from women leaders about their thoughts on the growing role of women in driving innovation and the need for more inclusive workplace cultures.
Rebecca Clay, Vice President, Client Success, Virdee
“With my entire career being tech, I have primarily worked in male-dominated fields. Over the years, I have enjoyed seeing a pivot in the tech start-up space where women are becoming more prevalent. Women are increasingly filling leadership roles and showing how effective we are in engineering and technical fields. It has been an uphill battle, so the acceptance of women in engineering and technical roles is something very special to me.
International Women’s Day calls for companies to be inclusive and find diverse talent. Employing a range of unique individuals allows a company to have a dynamic team. Diverse voices help us to provide the best care to all customers, which is super important.”
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Erica Cronan, Global Director of Marketing, Datadobi
“I love International Women’s Day—it’s like a global pep rally celebrating how far we ladies have come while firing us up to keep that momentum raging. You can’t help but feel inspired thinking about the bold trailblazers throughout history who broke down barriers against all odds. The unstoppable suffragettes and straight-up heroes like RBG, Amelia Earhart, and Serena—those unapologetic women—heard “no” and “you can’t” as a challenge to demolish.
Because of their grit and vision, we now get to chase any ambition without archaic limits or questioning our equality as women. We’re CEOs, world leaders, and champion athletes because they kicked open doors that used to be locked shut. Of course, there’s still work to be done. But on this day, I like reveling in how women have repeatedly defied the haters, proving our limitless potential.
IWD means toasting the brave ones before us while channeling that spirit as we forge new paths. The future looks so bright for women and girls—now that’s something worth cheering loud and proud of!”
Danya Iyengar, Global Director, Human Resources, Index Engines
“It’s an exciting time for us women! We have made significant strides in technological inventions, challenging stereotypes and reshaping the industry’s landscape. Women in technology have played instrumental roles in designing innovative solutions, fostering diversity of thought, and inspiring the next generation of female leaders in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).
We have shattered glass ceilings, proving that gender is not a barrier to making groundbreaking advancements. In our organization, the contributions of our female colleagues have been pivotal in fields ranging from artificial intelligence and cybersecurity to software development and the war on ransomware. All our efforts as women are key in cultivating a tech industry that reflects all its professionals’ diverse perspectives and talents.
The role of women in technology extends beyond technical positions to include vital roles within Human Resources (HR). In the technology sector, HR often plays a crucial role in designing and implementing strategies to attract, retain, and promote talent sans gender bias. Women in tech-focused HR roles contribute significantly to building equitable and innovative workplaces that empower everyone to thrive.
As we celebrate these breakthroughs, it is evident that the continued inclusion of women in technology brings diverse perspectives and propels the industry toward greater creativity, efficiency, and social impact.”
Belinda Jurisic – Vice President Channel Strategy and Management, Veeam
“There are unique challenges and obstacles that we as women face that men cannot always relate to. I believe some of these obstacles are similar, yet how we react and act to them makes it unique. Having a female peer or colleague you can talk and share with, someone who can validate what you feel is ‘normal,’ is priceless.
From a working woman with children to a working woman without children, to a woman starting in her career to one having to deal with hormone overdrive at 50, having someone who can really relate to and understand makes us feel more ‘normal.’ And, for me, having someone to share ideas and how to deal with these obstacles is so valuable.”
Shiri Kerman, Vice President of Engineering, Zadara
“International Women’s Day is a celebration of the remarkable power of women. As a woman leader navigating a predominantly male landscape, this day serves as a poignant reminder of the strides we’ve made in dismantling barriers and fostering innovation, all while working to maintain the important work-life balance.
I find inspiration in honoring the trailblazing women who have paved the way for future generations. Let’s continue amplifying women’s voices and particular needs and strive to cultivate environments where progress and inclusivity thrive alongside a healthy professional-personal life balance.”
Sandy Mahla, District Sales Manager, Datadobi
“International Women’s Day (IWD) is a good time to both reflect and set our sights on the work that remains. As a working woman in a field still dominated by men, I see how far women have come through sheer grit, determination, and necessity to provide for ourselves and our families. The battles fought by previous generations like Grace Hopper, Ruth Bader Ginsberg, and our moms and aunts make our journey easier. I am grateful for organizations like Datadobi that provide opportunities for employees to thrive based on their merits and contribute to their full potential.
But there is still work to do. How is it that in 2024, we are still dealing with pay gaps, being passed over for promotions, and having to fight twice as hard to get a seat at the table? And why do we, as women, feel we must be more than fully qualified for a new role while our male colleagues are willing to “go for it” with half the experience? The hard work is figuring out how to build organizations that don’t just give lip service about diversity but genuinely hear and value different voices and perspectives.
It’s easy for companies to initiate some training and call it a day on diversity. But creating a culture where each person feels empowered to speak up, turn off their phones at night, take their PTO, and be part of something bigger than themselves is the trick. That’s the difficult part we’ve got to keep grinding on, day in and day out. Creating workplaces where people feel secure enough to offer new ideas, point out obstacles, and discuss discrepancies without fear of reprisal is key.”
Petra Bracko Mitchell, President and CEO, Catalyst Connection (Part of the MEP National Network)
“As a woman in engineering who has chosen a career leading in manufacturing operations, I’ve learned that success certainly isn’t guaranteed; it’s forged through dedication and a refusal to accept barriers as limitations. Every obstacle I’ve encountered on the way to my position today has only fueled my determination to do what I can to carve out spaces where women can thrive.
I know my journey echoes that of countless women who have defied the status quo. On this International Women’s Day, I simply want to celebrate how far we’ve come while acknowledging the strength and spirit that propels women forward every day. Today’s women are opening up opportunities for future generations, hopefully reminding them that with perseverance and passion, they too can engineer their dreams into reality.”
Rebecca Morgans, Director, Global Marketing, Zadara
“I chose to build my career in the technology sector, which remains male-dominated. I’ve accomplished many growth milestones, even though there were times when I faced challenges along the way. When I think of what International Women’s Day means to me, it’s a reminder that while there is still a way to go to achieve equality, those challenges were never roadblocks but opportunities for growth and transformation.
International Women’s Day is a celebration of breaking down barriers and the unwavering spirit of womanhood. Today, I celebrate the remarkable women determined to defy societal expectations and do everything they knew they could. Every “no” overcome has paved the way for a more equitable and empowered future for every woman everywhere.”
Shanthi Rajan, CEO, Linarc
“Leading a tech company as a woman has been a lesson in ignoring and surmounting those preconceived notions about gender and innovation. Of course, gender is irrelevant in tech; it’s always been the best ideas and solutions that have propelled the industry forward. As a CEO, I don’t aspire to mimic my male counterparts; I strive to redefine leadership by embracing qualities often dismissed as ‘feminine.’
The way I see it, collaboration, empathy, and intuition have been just as important as my tech acumen in achieving success. On International Women’s Day, let’s celebrate the women in tech because it isn’t just a man’s world. It’s an open universe for everyone.”
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Hana Rivić, Head of AI, Intellias
“I believe women and men are equally capable of working in whatever field they choose. For me, it was STEM, and my love for STEM started early in life. I always liked maths, and since the first grade of elementary school, I was amazed by geometry. On that path, what made me successful is persistence and dedication to finding a solution and the ability to recognize where I can get help if needed.
We must inspire inclusion from a young age. Young girls need access to great teachers and education with extra support from mentors to believe in themselves and develop their passions in a profession with no boundaries.
In tech and science-related industries, there needs to be greater opportunities and support for women to excel. This includes increased representation in leadership and technical roles, closing the gender pay gap, fostering inclusive work environments with mentorship and flexibility, encouraging girls and women to pursue STEM education and careers, and recognizing and valuing diverse perspectives. By promoting these measures, we can create a more equitable and inclusive landscape, harnessing the full potential of women’s talents for innovation and progress.
Also, I believe universally and in all industries, one of the main challenges women face in their careers is when they take maternity leave. In fast-changing fields, prolonged absence can lead women to fall behind through no fault of their own. I advocate for companies to provide ample support for women upon their return, offering opportunities for learning and catching up to mitigate the impact on their advancement and promotions. I believe, as a society, we should work on improving the overall work-life balance for everyone and help to close the gaps for any inequality. Inspiring inclusion.”
Ravit Sadeh, Senior Director of Product Management, CTERA
“Technology and I weren’t exactly besties. As a busy professional, it often felt like just another demand on my already stretched plate. But then, AI caught my eye. Suddenly, the same woman who once found tech a little too “everything, everywhere, all at once” was diving into the depths of AI, fueled by curiosity and a growing passion to learn how it could streamline my life.
What surprised me most wasn’t the sheer potential of AI but its ability to empower me beyond the realm of professional tasks. See, like many women, I struggle with the ever-present “imposter syndrome.” But what if I told you I found a solution: AI-powered personal growth coaches? No more harsh criticism, only intelligent, emotionally-aware feedback from NLP models. Imagine an AI advisor whispering words of encouragement, nudging me past writer’s block and into a creative flow. No more staring at the blank page, paralyzed by indecision.
This, in my opinion, is AI’s true power for women. It’s not just about automating tasks; it’s about amplifying our strengths, easing our burdens, and fueling our ambitions. It’s a supportive partner, a gentle nudge in the right direction, a voice that whispers, “You can do it,” when our own voice falters.
This journey I’m on, this power I’m discovering—it’s not widely spoken about, but I believe it deserves a voice.”
Viktoriya Tsytsak, Senior Director, Head of CEO Office, Intelllias
“Despite the progress that’s been made, gender bias and stereotypes continue to pose challenges for women in both education and the workplace. This is changing as women are taking charge of their development and growth. Still, the journey to high-level positions can be particularly challenging. However, there are now two aspects of leadership that are helping women to overcome those challenges.
The first is to focus on developing strategic thinking while navigating complex challenges and driving innovation in tech-related industries. Women leaders who excel in strategic thinking can effectively contribute to and shape the direction of their organizations, leading them to sustainable growth and success. The second is building high-performing teams, especially in tech, where collaboration and innovation are paramount.
Women leaders who can create inclusive environments where diverse perspectives are valued and teams are empowered can drive tangible business results and outperform competitors.
Women’s economic empowerment is important to unlocking the full potential of female talent and creativity. Lifelong learning and professional development play a significant role in this empowerment process, and this journey has two important components. First, invest in personal development to stay current with industry trends and develop professionally and personally. Second, investment in the development of others to boost the broader potential for team members, the business, and communities.
I founded several professional and leadership development programs during my work in Strategic Consulting and IT Services. They included mentoring others to help them enter STEM or switch to STEM from other industries. I also co-founded an MBA program focused on executives in the digital transformation area.
Such tailored and customized programs open equal opportunities and help businesses simultaneously achieve their strategic aspirations. When women are economically empowered through learning opportunities and professional development, it contributes to better engagement at the workplace and more diversity and inclusion.”
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Promoting gender diversity and creating inclusive environments can help the tech industry to ensure that the best and brightest talent come together to create innovative solutions that benefit more people. A more diverse organization can also improve the employer brand. The above leaders are inspirational and have shown numerous potential ways forward for the sector. While the industry still has a long way to go, the situation is improving.
What steps has your organization taken to develop more women leaders? Share your thoughts with us on Facebook, X, and LinkedIn. We’d love to hear from you!
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