Internet security firm, Smoothwall, has launched a Tech Inclusion Programme, to encourage women and minorities to pursue a career in tech.
The Leeds company has partnered with a number of organisations, including PwC and Tech Talent Charter, to promote best practice and equal recruitment processes.
“Research from 2017 highlighted that only 17% of employees in the UK’s tech sector were women, and this shows huge gender disparity that needs addressing,” explained Claire Stead, Tech Inclusion Programme lead at Smoothwall.
“As a technology company we take great pride and responsibility in leading the way on ensuring we have a diverse and inclusive workforce. We also believe that we should use our influence to make technology an industry that is accessible to everyone in their careers.”
Last month, Smoothwall announced plans to become a “tech powerhouse” from its base in Leeds.
“By working together we can reach more females at an earlier stage of their lives. We need to work harder to raise awareness about the exciting range of technology roles out there, in a sector that has the power to change the world,” added Sheridan Ash, Women in Tech leader at PwC and The Tech She Can Charter founder.
“Promoting visible and relatable role models is a huge part of this, as it’s hard for girls to aspire to be something they can’t see. There are many brilliant women working in technology roles right across the UK, from creatives and design thinkers, to coders and data scientists. Technology is open to all and we need to get that message across.”
