Why Are Qualified Women of Color Hard to Find in Tech?
The common statement that "qualified women of color in tech are hard to find" is a major issue, considering the extensive potential among this underrepresented group. Why is it so? Are qualified women of color in tech really a rare treasure? As a former computer programmer, consultant, and CEO who also happens to be a woman of color, I invite you to take a journey through my personal experiences and shed light on some pressing issues.
The Plight of a Woman of Color in Tech: A Personal Experience
Having programmed multimillion-dollar systems for major corporations, I often found myself as the only woman of color on projects, in rooms and in the tech department. In 1989, I attended a university to study computer science, even though a degree in the field was then offered by very few institutions. As per computer science.org, women earning computer science degrees peaked at 37% in 1984 but this number has been on a decline. Among them, Black women earning computer science degrees was less than 8%, indicating clear underrepresentation.
During my two-decade-long tech career, I frequently encountered unfair treatment such as being underpaid, overlooked for promotions, and, at times, subjected to racism. This mirrors the environment many women of color in tech face today.
Addressing Biases and Building Diversity in Tech
Understanding the biases faced by women of color in tech is the first big step towards change. The world is increasingly focusing on diversity and inclusivity, so why then does such a discrepancy in tech persist? Women of color, representing approximately 12% of the computing and mathematical workforce in 2020 according to statics.com, are frequently overlooked.
Overcoming The “Blinders”: Inclusion and Equal Opportunities
On many occasions, companies overlook qualified women of color claiming they "couldn't find" them, or they only recruit from "elite" schools. The augmented reality is that there are talented women of color who are more than capable for tech roles but remain largely unseen. By removing these blinders, we can tap into a wealth of talent that can enhance diversity and innovation in the tech field.
Women of Color: Shattering the Concrete Ceiling
The term "glass ceiling" is familiar to many, referring to an invisible barrier that prevents marginalized groups from achieving career success. But a less known and even more challenging barrier exists for women of color, known as the concrete ceiling. Unlike a glass ceiling which you can see through, a concrete ceiling is an opaque and seemingly impenetrable barrier. This reflects the added pressures of both gender and racial bias which often hinders career advancement.
Turning the Tide: Recognizing and Supporting Women of Color
Taking definitive, actionable steps in recruitment, training, mentoring, and career growth are key to encouraging diversity. This includes pay equality, nurturing career paths, and creating a supportive environment for women of color. Empowering these women fosters innovation and brings unique perspectives to problem-solving, leveraging their life experiences and world views.
Moving From Tokenism to Total Inclusion
The change starts with more inclusive recruiting processes. Recognizing and acknowledging their potential, investing in their growth and success can pave the way towards transforming diversity from mere tokens to total inclusion. Internalizing and implementing diversity strategies will usher in a new era for tech industries, where every talent is recognized and rewarded irrespective of their gender or racial identity.
Benefits of Hiring Women of Color in Tech
Hiring women of color and investing in them ensures loyalty, enhanced performance levels and opens up a range of diverse perspectives that can foster innovation.
Conclusion
The message is clear - in order to truly diversify and grow the tech world, we need to challenge stereotypes and biases and fully recognize, hire, and support women of color in tech. I am Trina L Martin - a woman of color, a tech veteran, an equality champion, and CEO of Trina L Martin International. Thank you for joining this conversation, and let's connect on LinkedIn to build a more inclusive tech industry!