Women in Deep Tech: From Development to the C-Suite
In recent years, the deep tech sector has emerged as a cornerstone of innovation, driving advancements in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, biotechnology, and other transformative technologies. While this field has traditionally been male-dominated, a growing number of women are breaking barriers from behind the scenes to the forefront and making significant and recognized contributions, from development roles to leading as CEOs. Though the journey is still challenging, their journeys highlight the importance of diversity in fostering creativity, resilience, and groundbreaking solutions.
Breaking into Deep Tech: The Developer’s Perspective
For many women in deep tech, the journey begins with a passion for science, mathematics, and engineering. Despite societal challenges and stereotypes that often dissuade women from pursuing careers in technology, countless individuals have forged their paths through determination and skill.
Women have always been involved in technology, but until recently not often recognized, such as Katherine Johnson. She was a NASA mathematician whose precise calculations were vital in determining the trajectories for spacecraft, including the missions that landed humans on the moon. These developers bring unique perspectives to the creation of innovative technologies. For instance, research has shown that diverse teams outperform homogenous ones, especially when tackling complex problems. Women’s contributions in development roles often emphasize user-centered design, ethical considerations, and collaborative problem-solving. Organizations that prioritize inclusivity benefit from a richer pool of ideas and more robust technological solutions.
Programs like Girls Who Code, Ada Developers Academy, and Women Who Tech have played pivotal roles in empowering women to enter the field. However, being recognized in deep tech requires more than technical skills; it demands resilience, support and mentorship. Supportive networks and role models play a critical role in helping women developers navigate the challenges of working in cutting-edge industries.
From Developers to Leaders: Rising to the C-Suite
The transition from technical roles to leadership positions can be challenging for anyone, but women often face additional hurdles, including unconscious bias and limited access to leadership development opportunities. Despite these challenges, many women have risen to the top, leading groundbreaking companies and reshaping industries. Lisa Su, the CEO of Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), faced challenges as a woman in the male-dominated semiconductor industry. She overcame these challenges to turn AMD into an industry leader.
Leaders like Reshma Shetty, co-founder of Ginkgo Bioworks, and Fei-Fei Li, an American computer scientist and co-director of the Stanford Human-Centered AI Institute, exemplify how women are driving innovation at the highest levels. These leaders not only excel in technical expertise but also possess the strategic vision and emotional intelligence required to guide organizations through the complexities of the deep tech landscape.
Support, mentorship and sponsorship are key enablers for women aspiring to leadership roles. Programs designed to support career advancement, such as Women in AI’s leadership initiatives and She Leads Tech, provide valuable resources for women navigating their paths to the C-suite. Companies must also play their part by fostering inclusive cultures and implementing policies that support work-life balance, professional growth, and equal opportunity.
Challenges and Opportunities
While progress has been made, the journey is far from over. Women remain underrepresented in deep tech, particularly in senior roles. According to a 2022 report by the World Economic Forum, women account for only 22% of AI professionals and even fewer in other emerging technology fields, and less than 4% of those are in an upper management position.
Addressing this disparity requires systemic change. Organizations must actively work to eliminate biases in hiring and promotion, create supportive environments, and invest in initiatives that encourage girls and young women to pursue STEM education. Governments and educational institutions also have roles to play, ensuring that the pipeline of talent is both diverse and well-prepared for the challenges of deep tech.
On the flip side, the deep tech sector presents immense opportunities for women to drive impact. As these technologies increasingly influence every aspect of society, from healthcare to climate solutions, women’s leadership is critical to ensuring that innovations are inclusive, ethical, and sustainable.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Representation matters. When young women see role models who look like them succeeding in deep tech, it demystifies the path and inspires ambition. Initiatives that highlight the achievements of women in deep tech, such as conferences, awards, and media coverage, play an essential role in shaping perceptions and aspirations.
Creating opportunities for mentorship and peer networks is equally important. Women leaders must continue to “lift as they climb,” supporting the next generation through mentorship, advocacy, and sharing their stories. By fostering a culture of collaboration and inclusion, the deep tech sector can become a beacon of opportunity for women worldwide.
Conclusion
Women in deep tech are transforming the industry, from coding groundbreaking algorithms to leading billion-dollar enterprises. Their journeys are a testament to the power of resilience, innovation, and the value of diverse perspectives in solving the world’s most complex challenges. As we look to the future, ensuring greater inclusion and equity in deep tech isn’t just a moral imperative- it is a strategic advantage that will shape the innovations of tomorrow.