I’ve never quite understood the perception that technology is not a sector that appeals to women. It’s strange. For me, technology and everything it represents is exciting and dynamic - a real enabler for tangible improvements in everything from communications to shopping and entertainment, healthcare and education – every aspect of life. Perhaps that’s why my career took the route it did. After joining The Carphone Warehouse Group in 2000, I played a key role in launching TalkTalk - where I am now CEO - in 2003. Yet, in the UK, just 27 percent of those employed in the digital industries are women. While, for those in leadership positions, the pool is even smaller, with women holding just a sixth of senior roles at top UK companies across the board. I can't think of a better time to point this out than today - International Women in Engineering Day, which is dedicated to highlighting the opportunities for women in science, engineering and technology and addressing the female skills shortage in these areas. Being a “woman in tech” is something I’m incredibly proud of but I look forward to a time where it is no longer a label I wear, because women are no longer in the minority.
TalkTalk CEO Tristia Harrison has called for more female tech experts to be featured in the media, and tech education to be made more creative, among other moves, to encourage more girls and women to consider a career in the tech industry. The company said it was "disappointed" by Harrison's comments on Twitter, but added that she had been invited back as an advisor at its new London office.