The tech industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the world, with artificial intelligence and engineering playing a pivotal role in transforming industries from healthcare to finance. However, the gender gap remains a longstanding challenge. As a result, Women in AI and engineering are significantly underrepresented, facing barriers around access, recognition, and leadership that continue to limit progress.
Despite these challenges, many talented women are making significant contributions, reshaping the future of these fields, and paving the way for greater diversity
Where do women in AI and engineering stand today?
As AI and engineering fields continue to grow, women’s representation remains disproportionately low. According to a 2020 World Economic Forum report, women make up 26% of data and AI positions in the workforce. In engineering, the disparity is similarly stark. In the United Kingdom, only 16% of engineers are women, highlighting the ongoing underrepresentation in the field.
This issue reflects deeper, systemic challenges that have shaped the industry for decades, extending beyond a simple “pipeline” problem.
Encouragingly, there have been signs of progress in recent years. Diversity and inclusion initiatives, mentorship programmes, and increased awareness of the gender gap are beginning to create more opportunities for women in AI and engineering. However, meaningful change will require sustained effort to ensure women not only enter these fields but also thrive within them.
That said, women face several barriers when it comes to establishing and advancing their careers:
Gender bias and stereotypes
The tech industry has long been male-dominated, and outdated stereotypes about women’s abilities in technical fields persist. This bias can affect hiring decisions, promotions, and daily interactions, limiting women’s opportunities to progress. Research from the World Economic Forum shows that women in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields often receive less encouragement from educators, peers, and even family members, impacting confidence and long-term career aspirations.
Lack of mentorship and role models
Mentorship is a key factor in career development, particularly in technical fields. Yet, fewer women in AI and engineering have access to senior mentors who understand the challenges they face. Without visible female role models, it can be difficult for women to see a clear path to leadership.
The gender pay gap
Pay disparity remains a significant issue. Research indicates that young women in tech earn around 29% less than their male counterparts, and this gap widens as women advance into senior technical roles.
Workplace culture
The working culture in tech can often feel unwelcoming for women. Long hours, aggressive competition, and a lack of work-life balance make it difficult for women, particularly those with caregiving responsibilities, to thrive. Moreover, a lack of inclusive policies, such as parental leave, flexible hours, and gender-balanced leadership, further compounds the problem.
Five women leading the way in AI and engineering
Despite the barriers, many women are making a significant impact in AI and engineering, challenging the status quo, and setting new standards for excellence. Here are five women whose work is helping to shape the future:
1. Fei-Fei Li – advancing ethical AI
Dr Fei-Fei Li is a leading AI researcher and co-director of the Stanford Human-Centred AI Institute. She played a key role in creating ImageNet, a database that revolutionised computer vision and deep learning. Li is also a strong advocate for diversity and ethical AI development, ensuring that AI systems are designed to benefit all of society.
2. Timnit Gebru – championing accountability in AI
Timnit Gebru is a leading expert on AI ethics and co-founder of the Distributed AI Research Institute (DAIR). Her research on bias in machine learning, particularly facial recognition systems, has exposed racial and gender discrimination in AI technologies. Gebru continues to push for greater accountability and transparency in AI development.
3. Joy Buolamwini – tackling bias in AI
Joy Buolamwini founded the Algorithmic Justice League, which works to uncover and address bias in AI. Her research at MIT revealed significant racial and gender biases in facial recognition technology, prompting major changes in the industry. Buolamwini’s work highlights the importance of fairness and equity in AI systems.
4. Nina Schick – addressing AI-driven misinformation
Nina Schick is a political analyst and entrepreneur focused on the intersection of AI and misinformation. She has advised global leaders on AI governance and deepfake detection, working to mitigate the risks posed by AI-generated content.
5. Kate Crawford – exploring AI’s societal impact
Kate Crawford is a researcher and author whose work examines the social and political implications of AI. Her book Atlas of AI explores how AI systems reflect human biases and power structures. Crawford’s research challenges the industry to take a more responsible approach to AI development.
The future of women in AI and engineering
The contributions of these women, and many others, are shaping a future where AI and engineering are more inclusive and reflective of diverse perspectives. Greater representation will lead to more balanced decision-making and more effective solutions.
For meaningful change to happen, the tech industry must commit to addressing the structural challenges that women in AI and engineering face. That means not only encouraging more women to enter these fields but also ensuring they have the support, recognition, and opportunities to succeed.
How companies can support women in tech roles
Companies have a crucial role to play in closing the gender gap in tech. Here’s how they can create a more inclusive and supportive environment:
Adopt fair and inclusive hiring practices
Unconscious bias can creep into hiring processes, leading to fewer women in technical roles. Companies should ensure job descriptions and interview processes are gender-neutral and actively seek diverse candidates. Blind recruitment and diverse hiring panels can help reduce bias.
Create mentorship programmes
Mentorship is key to career progression. Establishing programmes that connect women with senior leaders can provide essential guidance and support. Peer networks and industry groups can also help women navigate male-dominated teams.
Support work-life balance
Flexible working hours, remote working options, and robust parental leave policies can make it easier for women to stay in technical roles and progress in their careers. A healthy work-life balance is essential for retaining female talent.
Encourage women’s leadership development
Promoting more women into leadership positions should be a priority. Companies can support this by offering leadership development programmes and actively encouraging women to apply for senior roles. Ensuring women’s voices are heard in strategic decisions helps to create a more balanced and innovative workplace.
A more balanced future
The future for women in AI and engineering depends on building diverse teams that bring a wide range of perspectives, ideas, and experiences to the table. Creating more opportunities for women in these fields, supporting their career growth, and improving workplace culture will lead to better outcomes for both businesses and society.
The progress made by women like Fei-Fei Li, Timnit Gebru, Joy Buolamwini, Nina Schick, and Kate Crawford demonstrates that change is possible. As more companies recognise the value of diversity, the future of the tech industry will be more balanced, effective, and reflective of the world we live in.
At Venquis, we know that diverse talent leads to better results. If your business is looking to build a team of skilled professionals, we can help.
