WOMEN IN IT: IDENTIFYING OBSTACLES AND ENABLERS FOR A MORE INCLUSIVE INDUSTRY

The information technology (IT) sector has been a driving force behind economic growth, innovation, and digital transformation. However, gender disparity remains a significant issue, with women constituting only 26% of computing and technology roles despite making up nearly half of the overall U.S. workforce. This research examines the historical trends of gender representation in IT, the systemic challenges faced by women in the sector, and the broader implications of gender diversity in technology-driven innovation. Through a mixed-methods approach, the study utilizes structured surveys and in-depth interviews with women IT professionals to identify key barriers such as gender bias, workplace culture, career progression limitations, and work-life balance challenges. Sentiment analysis and NVivo-generated word clouds provide insights into the prevailing workplace experiences of women in IT, highlighting recurring themes of stagnation, maternal bias, lack of leadership opportunities, and the need to work twice as hard to achieve recognition. The findings indicate that while some organizations are making efforts to foster inclusivity, significant gaps persist in leadership representation, pay equity, and professional development opportunities. Respondents emphasize the need for targeted initiatives, including mentorship programs, equitable hiring practices, and flexible work policies, to create a more supportive environment for women in IT. Addressing these challenges require collaborative efforts from industry leaders, policymakers, and educational institutions to bridge the gender gap and promote a more diverse and innovative IT workforce. This study contributes to ongoing discussions on gender equity in the technology sector and provides actionable recommendations for organizations seeking to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in IT.