According to the 2021 Tech Nation report just 18% of digital tech roles were held by women. Despite the current tech industry gender gap, women have played significant roles in developing many of digital technologies that we use today. Here are some of the pioneering women in tech that have inspired us.
Ada Lovelace was a British mathematician, primarily known for her work on the Analytical Engine, Charles Babbage's proposed mechanical general-purpose computer. Her algorithm is considered the world's first computer programme.
Grace Hopper was an American computer scientist and United States naval officer. She was a pioneer of programming and one of the first programmers of the Harvard Mark I computer. She helped develop COBOL, an early high-level computer programming language, and invented one of the first linkers.
Katherine Johnson was an American mathematician for NACA/NASA whose orbital calculations were vital to the success of the first crewed US space flights.
Annie Easley was an American computer scientist, mathematician, and rocket scientist. She was a leading member of the team that developed software for the Centaur rocket stage.
Mary Allen Wilkes is a lawyer, former computer programmer and logic designer, known for her work with the LINC computer, which is recognized by many as the world's first 'personal computer.'
If you have an interest in science, maths or technology, then there is so much opportunity to make a difference with a career in tech. Learning to code can be a great first step!