2. Opportunities in Technology in Ireland
As of 2021, Ireland’s digital sector accounts for about 13% of Ireland’s GDP and 26% of Irish exports. The technology business is growing rapidly and many talents are in great demand. Ireland is changing fast, and young people, both women and men need to be inspired to choose careers in Technology.
There are roughly 117,800 people working in jobs that require STEM skills, and less than 25% of such roles are filled by women. Research shows that women face several barriers and challenges when it comes to choosing to study STEM-related subjects. Just one in five computer science graduates are women, and this is in term leading to gender disparities.
EU statistics show that 6-7% of technical careers are being filled by women. Women are vastly under-represented, and statistics are even more staggering for black women. Research shows that diverse teams perform better and are more innovative, yet Black workers make up about 2% of the workforce at large technology organisations and fill just 1% of technical positions 2019 research shows.
Ireland is a very diverse community but that’s not reflected in our institutions. Women, especially Black professionals are vastly under-represented in all occupations within the technology sector. This lack of representation is hindering the ability of women to succeed in the industry, as their opportunities for mentorship and sponsorship are limited. With very few women around, this can lead to fostering unconscious gender bias in company culture, leaving many women without a clear path forward.
With the visibility of women, especially of black women being reduced in tech, it is difficult for young women to choose tech careers when they don’t see role models in the industry to aspire to. A recent survey by Matrix recruitment in 2021, highlighted that 50% of adults believe:
- Ireland has an issue with racism in the workplace, up from 46% in 2020
- 60% said that ethnic minorities have fewer promotional opportunities than their colleagues
With technology powering the world, it is imperative that more women choose careers in technology, so women are involved in designing for and with women. Young girls need to be inspired to study engineering and technology degrees at the third level. Necessary training is needed for staff to be trained on matters of equality and discrimination so ideal environments are available for all women to receive the adequate support system they need to thrive.
3. Initiatives – Why Black Women in Tech (GTA) needed in Ireland
- Platform to inspire young talent
- Safe space to share black experiences
- Educate and train
- Access to role models and have access to mentoring
- Access and awareness of Tech Opportunities in the tech ecosystem in Ireland
Launched: 8 Sept 2022
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