What's next for women in IT?

BANGALORE, INDIA: “All animals are equal, but some animals are equal than others,” wrote George Orwell in his novel 'Animal Farm'. Whenever we talk about equality - be it gender equality or social equality — this very quote underscores our double standards.

The same resonated at today's event, hosted by Anita Borg Institute of Women and Technology in partnership with Indian Semiconductor Association (ISA), themed 'Women in Computing in India'.

“Indian women are playing a very crucial role in almost every industry today. In the electronics industry, we are seeing a lot of women choosing a career in engineering and opting for both in hardware and software,” said Telle Whitney, CEO and president, Anita Borg Institute of Women and Technology, while delivering a key note at the event.

The event saw close to 400 technical women professionals from different companies and diverse backgrounds joining together to celebrate that varied aspect.

The session also covered thoughts about equality, career of women in technology, success, challenges and growth strategies for women in IT sector and electronics sector.

Whitney added that women professionals comprise of 40 per cent of the workforce in the electronics sector and IT sector in India, while in US it is 20 per cent.

The Grace Hopper Celebration of Women in Computing is a series of conferences that is designed to bring the research and career interests of women in computing to the forefront.

Telle further added that the India has already accomplished women in the semiconductor industry. Young girls having a passion in semiconductor industry should prepare and get the right degrees and experience to excel in the field. Right course of study can lead to a very successful career ahead, she added.

Addressing the gathering, Satya Gupta, vice president, ISA, said, “The forum aims at creating a network to share information among women engineers and executives in the industry. It also aspires to highlight role models and advance the pipeline of talent in the field of technology.”

Deanna Kosaraju, vice president, Strategic Initiatives Grace Hopper Celebration India Conference Founder, said: “Women in India are very ambitious, driven and intelligent; they are going to take the country to its next level. Their strive for greater innovation and technology is unending."

He added that they have seen a lot of successful women in banking sector, however, unfortunately the same is lacking in the technical front. This programme will help woman find their way to achieve the pinnacle of success.