Iceland Leads Globally in Empowering Women in STEM, Reveals CloudZero Study

November 30th, 2023 Tim Jay Leave a comment

Around the world, women currently only account for 24% of the STEM workforce, while the gender wage gap in STEM professions stands at a staggering $15,000. With many countries working to promote inclusivity, which are currently the best at championing women in the STEM field?

To find out, cloud cost intelligence platform CloudZero has looked at 38 OECD countries to uncover the percentage of women in STEM roles and education, as well as the opportunities available to them. To get a better understanding of the female workforce in these countries, CloudZero also revealed the gender wage gap and average female salary for women, before using all these metrics to determine the best countries for women to start a career in STEM.

Iceland is declared the best country for championing women in STEM, with the highest average female wage in the world ($79,473).

Iceland is declared the best country for championing women in STEM, featuring the highest average female salary across all job roles ($79,473) and near equal representation in STEM roles (45%). The Netherlands ranks second with many thanks to having the highest number of STEM roles available per 1,000 female workers (13).

The U.S. follows in third with one of the highest average female salaries ($77,463). However, this might reflect the U.S. having the world’s highest GDP per capita ($80,030) rather than its efforts to champion women. While the U.S. sees high wages for women, the gender wage gap is still very high (17%), revealing a need for more efforts to achieve equality in the workplace.

Belgium comes in fourth and also has the lowest gender wage gap (1%). The wage transparency enforced by the country’s strict employment policies ensures equal wages for men and women. Denmark rounds out the top five, also with a low gender wage gap (6%).

Top Countries Championing Women in STEM
Rank	Country	Percentage Of People In STEM Roles Being Women	Percentage Of Female STEM Graduates Per Country	The Gender Wage Gap Per Country	Average Female Wage Per Country	Number Of STEM Roles Available Per 1,000 Female Workers
1	Iceland	45%	35%	10%	$79,473	1
2	Netherlands	29%	29%	13%	$63,225	13
3	United States	34%	34%	17%	$77,463	7
4	Belgium	33%	26%	1%	$64,848	5
5	Denmark	35%	34%	6%	$64,127	1

The study also reveals that Lithuania (49%) and Iceland (45%) are the countries with the highest percentage of women in STEM roles. Moreover, the highest percentage of female STEM graduates is seen in Poland (43%) and the UK (38%).

The Netherlands is revealed as the best country for women to kickstart a STEM career, with the highest number of available STEM roles per 1,000 female workers (13).

To determine the best countries for women to start a career in STEM, CloudZero analyzed each country’s gender wage gap, average female salary and number of available STEM roles per 1,000 female workers.

The Netherlands ranks first, with the highest number of STEM roles per 1,000 female workers (13.40). This is partly due to having the highest number of available engineering roles (121,167). Luxembourg follows in second with the second-highest average female wage ($78,310).

Belgium comes in third with a high number of available engineering roles (25,119). Switzerland comes fourth with a high average female wage ($72,993), while the U.S. rounds out the top five with an even higher average female wage ($77,463).

Best Countries For Women To Kickstart A Career In STEM
Rank	Country	The Gender Wage Gap Per Country	Average Female Wage In Each Country	Number Of Science And Mathematics Job Roles	Number Of Computer Science And Engineering Job Roles	Number Of Engineering Job Roles	Number Of STEM Roles Available Per 1,000 Female Workers
1	Netherlands	13%	$63,225	852	1,745	121,167	13
2	Luxembourg	n/a	$78,310	124	301	1,744	7
3	Belgium	1%	$64,848	291	1,003	25,119	5
4	Switzerland	14%	$72,993	284	2,043	29,218	7
5	United States	17%	$77,463	73,151	103,318	889,085	7

The study also finds that the U.S. has the highest number of STEM job roles, with 1,065,554 vacancies. The women in the UK, on the other hand, face many challenges despite there being a high percentage of female STEM graduates (38%). The UK has one of the world’s highest gender wage gaps (14%) and only offers five STEM roles per 1,000 female workers.

The research further revealed that engineering is the STEM job sector with the highest number of job vacancies, providing a total of 2,124,033 opportunities. Engineers are needed to help organizations keep up with the continuous evolution of technology. Cloud computing engineers, for example, help businesses save on cloud computing costs and allocate money to further technological advancements.

Madeline Umscheid at CloudZero shares some practical tips for women looking to start a career in STEM:

“If you don’t have a degree in STEM, you don’t necessarily need to go and get a more formal education to get into the industry. There are usually ways you can get hands-on practical experience without having to spend a lot of money and time, such as paid internships.

“Building a strong peer network is also valuable. Make friends with the people you work with, then stay in touch with them when you switch jobs. If you have a small peer network and want to grow out, challenge yourself to go to a few meet-ups or support groups as these are great opportunities for networking. They’re also a good opportunity to find other people who may be facing similar difficulties to you if you’re feeling alone.

“When you’re being interviewed for a job, you should also be interviewing the company. Look at their benefits policies, especially how they treat parents. Ask questions like “What’s the gender breakdown of your team?” or “What is your plan for diversity, equity, and inclusion?”. The way they answer these questions will tell you a lot.”

Global Trade Daily, Technology

Coding Queens: Women at the Helm of Tech Evolution

October 24th, 2023 Lena Heller Leave a comment

In the male-dominated field of technology, women are shining bright as they emerge as formidable leaders, pushing the boundaries of innovation with their expertise and vision. Known as the “Coding Queens,” these remarkable women are rewriting the rules and transforming the landscape of tech evolution. Despite the challenges and biases they face, women in tech are carving out their space, proving that they have a valuable contribution to make in the industry. With their outstanding achievements and inspiring stories, it’s no wonder that these Coding Queens are celebrated everywhere – from industry events to zoom classrooms. So, take a bow, women in tech, for your resilience, talent, and trailblazing spirit are ushering in a brighter future of technology!

Reigning Over Innovation

The realm of innovation is vast, and women are reigning supreme as architects of groundbreaking advancements. From designing cutting-edge software to spearheading hardware innovations, these Coding Queens are proving that the digital revolution knows no gender boundaries.

Consider the inspiring story of Susan Wojcicki, the former CEO of YouTube. Under her leadership, YouTube has transformed into a global platform that hosts content ranging from educational videos to entertainment. Her role as a Coding Queen in the digital landscape showcases the impact that women can have at the helm of tech giants.

Crafting New Horizons in Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is undeniably one of the most transformative technologies of our time, and women are instrumental in shaping its trajectory. With AI poised to revolutionize industries and reshape the way we live, Coding Queens are at the forefront of research, innovation, and ethical considerations.

Fei-Fei Li, a pioneer in computer vision and AI, has championed the development of algorithms that enable machines to perceive and understand the visual world. Her work not only pushes the boundaries of technology but also advocates for diversity and inclusivity in AI development.

Empowering the Future Through Education

Empowerment through education is a hallmark of the Coding Queens movement. These women understand that sharing knowledge and creating pathways for learning are essential to ensuring a vibrant and diverse tech ecosystem for generations to come.

Reshma Saujani, the founder of Girls Who Code, and Anna Radulovski, founder of Coding Girls, are beacons of change in this arena. Their organizations equip young girls with coding skills and empower them to excel in tech fields. By fostering a community of future Coding Queens, they are sowing the seeds of a brighter, more inclusive tech future.

Shattering the Glass Ceiling

The glass ceiling in the tech industry is cracking, and women are emerging as agents of change, breaking through barriers and challenging preconceived notions of leadership. These Coding Queens are not just demanding a seat at the table; they are creating their own tables and inviting others to join them.

The story of Ginni Rometty, the former CEO of IBM, is a testament to this narrative. Her journey from a systems engineer to the helm of a technology giant is an inspiration to women around the world. Rometty’s leadership underscores the fact that Coding Queens are not confined to specific roles; they can excel in any facet of the tech landscape.

Driving Diversity and Innovation

Diversity drives innovation, and Coding Queens understand this fundamental principle. These women are breaking down silos, fostering collaboration, and ensuring that technology reflects the diverse world it serves.

Kimberly Bryant, the founder of Black Girls Code, is an exemplar of this ethos. Her organization empowers black girls with the skills and confidence to become tech leaders. By embracing diversity, Bryant is shaping a future where Coding Queens come from all backgrounds and walks of life.

Leading with Resilience and Tenacity

The path to leadership is often paved with challenges, but Coding Queens meet adversity with resilience and tenacity. They are unwavering in their pursuit of excellence, overcoming obstacles and shattering stereotypes along the way.

Sheryl Sandberg, the former COO of Facebook, embodies this spirit of resilience. Her advocacy for women’s empowerment, both in the workplace and beyond, has inspired countless individuals to embrace their inner Coding Queens and challenge the status quo.

Paving the Way for a Tech Revolution

As we celebrate the Coding Queens, it’s essential to recognize that their impact extends far beyond individual achievements. They are paving the way for a tech revolution that is equitable, inclusive, and forward-looking. These women are not merely participants; they are visionaries, leaders, and catalysts for change.

Their stories of innovation, empowerment, and determination are rewriting the narrative of what it means to be a leader in the tech industry. By embracing the Coding Queens’ journey, we contribute to a more diverse and vibrant future, where every individual has the opportunity to shine and lead.

In conclusion, the era of Coding Queens is here, and their influence is undeniable. They are rewriting history, reshaping industries, and inspiring generations to come. As we stand witness to their remarkable journey, let us celebrate their achievements, amplify their voices, and join them in charting a course toward a future where technology is guided by diversity, innovation, and the relentless spirit of the Coding Queens.

Global Trade Daily, Technology

Breaking Barriers: Women at the Intersection of Tech and Crypto

September 20th, 2023 Rachel Clentworth Leave a comment

In the male-dominated world of technology and cryptocurrency, women have been steadily breaking down barriers and making their mark in recent years. While there is still a long way to go in achieving gender equality in these industries, the accomplishments and contributions of women at the intersection of tech and crypto are not to be underestimated. In this article, we will explore the challenges they have faced, the progress they have made, and the potential they hold for shaping the future of these fields.

The Gender Gap in Tech and Crypto

The tech and cryptocurrency sectors have long been criticized for their lack of gender diversity. Women have historically been underrepresented in both the workforce and leadership roles. This gender gap can be attributed to various factors, including biases in recruitment and hiring practices, limited access to educational opportunities, and a lack of female role models in these fields.

Pioneering Women in Crypto

Despite these challenges, pioneering women have made significant strides in the cryptocurrency space. Women like Elizabeth Stark, the co-founder of Lightning Labs, and Amber Baldet, the co-founder of Clovyr, have been instrumental in developing blockchain technology and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the crypto world.

Stark’s work on the Lightning Network, a second-layer solution for Bitcoin, has been crucial in addressing scalability issues and making microtransactions feasible. Baldet’s company, Clovyr, focuses on simplifying blockchain development and adoption, making it more accessible to businesses and individuals alike.

Women in Leadership Roles

In addition to making important technical contributions, women have also started to occupy leadership roles in prominent crypto companies. Notable examples include Caitlin Long, the CEO and founder of Avanti Bank, and Kristin Smith, the executive director of the Blockchain Association.

Caitlin Long’s Avanti Bank is pioneering the development of a regulatory-compliant bridge between the traditional financial system and cryptocurrency. Kristin Smith’s work at the Blockchain Association involves advocating for sensible crypto regulations in the United States. These women are not only leading their companies but also shaping the future of cryptocurrency policy.

Empowering Women in Tech and Crypto

To address the gender gap in tech and crypto, various initiatives and organizations have emerged to empower and support women in these fields. Programs like Women Who Code and Girls Who Code are providing opportunities for girls and women to learn coding and gain hands-on experience in technology. Additionally, conferences like the Women in Crypto Conference are creating spaces for women to connect, share knowledge, and inspire one another.

Challenges and Opportunities

While progress is being made, it’s essential to acknowledge the challenges that women still face in the tech and crypto sectors. Gender bias, workplace harassment, and unequal pay persist as significant issues. Overcoming these obstacles will require concerted efforts from both individuals and organizations.

However, the opportunities for women in tech and crypto are vast and growing. As these industries continue to evolve, there is a growing need for diverse perspectives and talents. Women bring unique insights and skills to the table, and their presence can lead to more inclusive and innovative solutions.

The Future of Tech and Crypto

As women continue to break barriers and make their presence felt in tech and crypto, the future of these industries looks promising. Increased diversity in the workforce and leadership positions will lead to more comprehensive and equitable solutions in blockchain technology, artificial intelligence, and other cutting-edge fields.

Furthermore, women entrepreneurs and innovators are likely to play a significant role in shaping the next generation of cryptocurrency and blockchain applications. Their perspectives on financial inclusion, privacy, and security will drive the development of new projects and products that cater to a broader audience.

Voyager Crypto Withdrawal: A Key Consideration

When discussing the intersection of women in tech and crypto, it’s essential to highlight key aspects that affect both genders. One such aspect is the process of crypto withdrawal on platforms like Voyager. Here are some crucial points to consider:

Accessibility for All: Women in tech and crypto are advocates for making platforms like Voyager more user-friendly and accessible to everyone, regardless of gender.
Security and Confidence: Ensuring the security of cryptocurrency withdrawals is vital for everyone, but women often emphasize building confidence in the process to encourage broader adoption.
Educational Resources: Women are actively engaged in creating educational resources that demystify the process of crypto withdrawal on platforms like Voyager.
Supportive Communities: Women-led communities and initiatives are creating spaces where individuals, regardless of their gender, can seek guidance and share experiences related to crypto withdrawals and investments.
Advocacy for Equal Access: Women in tech and crypto are advocating for equal access to crypto withdrawal platforms and services, promoting inclusivity and diversity in the crypto space.

Considering these points, it becomes evident that women in the tech and crypto sectors are not only contributing to the development of these industries but also working towards making them more equitable and accessible for all, including issues related to Voyager crypto withdrawals.

Conclusion

The intersection of technology and cryptocurrency is witnessing a transformative shift, thanks to the contributions and determination of women in these fields. While the gender gap remains a significant challenge, progress is being made, and women are increasingly taking on leadership roles, innovating, and advocating for change.

As we look ahead, it’s crucial to continue supporting and empowering women in tech and crypto. By doing so, we can ensure that these industries become more inclusive, diverse, and capable of addressing the complex challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The future of tech and crypto is undoubtedly brighter with women breaking barriers and leading the way.

Archives, Commentary, Global Trade Daily, Technology

Biggest Challenges for Women in Tech

June 22nd, 2022 Lilly Partin Leave a comment

The tech industry is one of the most rapidly growing industries in the world. It offers ample opportunities for those who are skilled in coding, programming, and other technical fields. However, women continue to face significant challenges when it comes to working in tech. Women in tech face unique challenges that their male counterparts don’t. From dealing with a lack of role models to struggling to be taken seriously, these women often have to work twice as hard and overcome many obstacles. In this guide, we will discuss some of the biggest challenges that women in tech face and provide a guide on how to empower yourself and rise above them. We hope that this guide will help you achieve your goals and break through the barriers that are preventing you from succeeding in tech!

One of the biggest challenges that women in tech face are a lack of role models. Women are often underrepresented in leadership positions in tech companies. This can make it difficult for women to advance their careers and achieve their goals. A lack of role models can also lead to a feeling of isolation and discouragement. When you don’t see anyone like yourself in a position of power, it can be easy to feel like you don’t belong or that you can’t succeed.

Another challenge that women in tech face are gender bias. Studies have shown that men are more likely to be promoted than women, even when they have comparable qualifications. Women are also often judged more harshly than men when it comes to their work performance. This bias can make it difficult for women to be taken seriously and to advance their careers.

Lastly, women in tech often have to deal with sexual harassment. Unfortunately, sexual harassment is a common problem in the tech industry. Women have reported being harassed by colleagues, clients, and even strangers at tech events. This type of harassment can make it difficult for women to feel safe and comfortable in their work environment.

These are just some of the challenges that women in tech face on a daily basis. Despite these challenges, there are many ways and guides to empower women and overcome them. Here are some tips:

Help more women to graduate with computer science degrees and certifications will graduate

There’s no doubt that women are underrepresented in computer science and engineering programs. In order to create a more diverse and inclusive tech industry, we need to encourage more women to pursue careers in tech. One way to do this is by ensuring that there are more women with computer science degrees and certifications.

Support Women-Owned Tech Businesses

Another way to support women in tech is by investing in women-owned tech businesses. When you invest in these businesses, you are supporting the growth of the industry as well as empowering female entrepreneurs.

Encourage More Women To Speak At Tech Events

One way to help reduce gender bias in the tech industry is by encouraging more women to speak at tech events. This will help to increase the visibility of women in tech and help to change the perception that only men are experts in the field.

Find a mentor

Having someone to guide you and offer advice can be invaluable when you’re trying to navigate the tech industry. Finding a mentor can help you feel more confident and motivated to achieve your goals.

Build a support network

Surrounding yourself with other women in tech can help you feel less alone and more supported. Having a group of people who understand the challenges you’re facing can be a great source of strength.

Speak up

Don’t be afraid to use your voice to speak out against discrimination and harassment. Standing up for yourself and others will help create a more inclusive environment for everyone.

We hope that this guide has been helpful in understanding some of the challenges that women in tech face. Remember, you are not alone! There are many resources and people available to support you on your journey. With perseverance and determination, you can overcome any obstacle. Empower yourself and go after your dreams!