Tech Giants Championing Women’s Inclusion

The tech industry has long struggled with gender diversity. While progress has been made, women are still underrepresented in leadership and technical roles.

But the good news is that a few major tech firms are making serious efforts to change this! They are introducing mentorship programs, leadership training, and return-to-work initiatives designed to create more opportunities for women in technology. 

Google: Women Techmakers 

Google’s Women Techmakers initiative empowers women in tech. Workshops, scholarships, and networking events create a space for women to develop their skills and build confidence. The program also collaborates with global organisations to boost STEM participation among underrepresented groups. Google further supports women through career development resources and events, including celebrations for International Women’s Day. 

How it supports women: 

• Free training sessions, scholarships, and networking opportunities. 
• Mentorship programs with experienced professionals. 
• Partnerships to increase women’s representation in STEM. 

Amazon: AWS She Builds 

AWS She Builds, Amazon’s initiative for women in cloud computing, offers mentorship, training, and networking opportunities. It helps women develop the skills needed to grow their careers and obtain AWS certifications, ultimately supporting them in moving into leadership roles within the cloud industry. 

How it supports women: 

• A 12-week career development program. 
• Community-driven training for AWS certifications.
• Flagship events featuring women in tech. 

IBM: Women in Tech & Tech Re-Entry 

IBM has a strong track record of supporting women in technology. The Women in Tech initiative provides structured mentorship and networking opportunities, helping women advance their careers and step into leadership roles. 

IBM’s Tech Re-Entry Program is specifically designed for women returning to the workforce after a career break. It offers hands-on projects, reskilling programs, and direct access to hiring managers, making the transition back into tech smoother. The company also runs the Women Leaders in AI program, recognising female innovators in artificial intelligence. 

How it supports women: 

• Mentorship and networking opportunities. 
• Tech Re-Entry Program for career relaunches. 
• Women Leaders in AI initiative celebrating female AI pioneers. 
• Collaboration with universities to promote STEM careers. 
• Global partnerships to enhance workplace inclusivity. 

Meta: Women in AI & Women in Tech 

Meta runs several initiatives to promote female leadership in technology, particularly in artificial intelligence. Women in AI and Women in Tech offer mentorship, career development programs, and networking opportunities, helping women build careers in the industry. Meta also funds female-led AI projects and research to foster innovation and increase gender diversity in AI development. 

How it supports women: 

• Career development and networking programs. 
• Funding for female-led AI projects. 
• Mentorship and support for women entering tech. 

Salesforce: Trailblazer Mentorship & Women’s Network 

Salesforce actively supports women in tech through programs like Trailblazer Mentorship and the Women’s Network. These initiatives focus on leadership training, mentorship, and peer support, helping women gain the skills and confidence to advance their careers. Salesforce also invests in female entrepreneurs, providing resources to help them grow their businesses using technology. 

How it supports women: 

• Career mentoring and leadership development. 
• Support for female entrepreneurs scaling their businesses with tech. 

Intel: Women in Technology & Returnship Programs 

Intel offers various initiatives to support women in STEM. The Women in Technology (WIT) program provides leadership development, technical training, and mentorship. Meanwhile, the Returnship Program is designed for professionals who have taken career breaks and are looking to re-enter the workforce. Intel also offers scholarships and partners with universities to encourage more women to pursue STEM degrees. 

How it supports women: 

• Leadership mentoring and technical training. 
• Returnship programs to support career relaunches. 
• Scholarships for women in STEM. 

Dell: Women Entrepreneur Network (DWEN) 

Dell’s Women Entrepreneur Network (DWEN) connects female entrepreneurs with funding, mentorship, and industry experts, helping them scale their businesses through technology. It creates a global network where women can access technology solutions and strategic guidance to grow their startups. 

How it supports women: 

• Networking and funding opportunities. 
• Direct access to tech experts and industry leaders. 
• Support for scaling women-led businesses. 

Cisco: Women Rock-IT 

Cisco’s Women Rock-IT program inspires young women to explore careers in IT, networking, and cybersecurity. The initiative features live broadcasts with female tech professionals, hands-on training sessions, and scholarship opportunities, breaking down barriers for women in the industry. 

How it supports women: 

• Live sessions featuring women in tech sharing career insights. 
• Hands-on cybersecurity and IT training. 
• Scholarships for aspiring female tech professionals. 

Other notable initiatives 

In addition to these major programs, other notable initiatives aim to support women in technology. Microsoft’s DigiGirlz and Apple’s Women at Apple have played important roles in introducing young women to STEM careers and fostering leadership. Many companies are also integrating gender diversity efforts into broader workplace inclusion strategies, ensuring long-term impact. Organisations like the AnitaB.org Grace Hopper Celebration, Girls Who Code, and Women Who Code further strengthen the industry’s commitment to gender diversity. 

Distilled 

The combined efforts of these companies are making real progress in breaking down barriers for women in technology. Challenges still exist, but initiatives focused on education, mentorship, and leadership development are making a tangible difference. By investing in women, these companies are helping to build a more diverse and innovative future. The journey isn’t over, but the momentum is undeniable.