Women in Tech| AQT

It is paradoxical that a rapidly growing sector, creating jobs, developing cutting-edge products, and offering innovative services, still struggles to attract women, despite an acute shortage of skilled labor. The tech industry is still perceived as a male-dominated environment, which is not surprising when we see that women represent only 20% of the workforce.

The AQT is working to eliminate the systemic barriers that contribute to gender inequality in the tech sector in Quebec. We also advocate for companies to adopt governance practices that support the advancement of women into strategic management and leadership positions, while influencing others to follow suit.

3 Reasons to Promote More Women in Tech

ACCESS TO TALENT

Mitigate the skilled labor shortage by focusing on greater inclusion of women

BUSINESS GROWTH

Boost performance and growth by leveraging diverse profiles in strategic decision-making

INNOVATION IN HR MANAGEMENT

Evolve talent management by adopting forward-thinking diversity policies in a sector still predominantly male

Bridging the Gender Gap is Not Just a Social Responsibility

Attracting more women into tech roles helps break the cycle of an industry still predominantly male, while addressing the growing demand for talent. Additionally, numerous studies show that companies with diverse teams are more successful and better valued.

Image illustrating the percentage of leadership positions in technology held by women worldwide (March 2021)

Concrete Actions

To Attract and Retain Women in Your Company

Create an inclusive and equitable work environment
Raise awareness among your team about cultural biases and stereotypes
Promote work-life balance
Ensure equal benefits for all employees
Ban sexist jokes and encourage mutual respect

Promote the advancement of women into leadership positions
Implement initiatives supporting the engagement of all genders
Equally share domestic tasks in the office

Deconstructing Limiting Beliefs to Advance Women in the Sector

More Obstacles for Women in Tech Careers Like in many other high-pressure sectors, there are obstacles. However, it is essential not to let a lack of self-confidence hinder your progress.

The "Geek" Stereotype There is no need to be a man obsessed with technology to find your place in the sector. Anyone, regardless of their background, can succeed in tech.

Are Masculine Traits and Skills More Suitable for Tech? Even assuming there are cognitive and personality differences between men and women, these differences have no impact on work performance.

Is the Tech Industry Limited to Technical Roles? The tech industry is not just about technologists. There are many positions to fill in various departments — human resources, communications, marketing, accounting, business development, sales, administration, customer service, operations, finance, legal services, etc.

Hostility Toward Women in the Sector?

While hostile behavior exists, the tech industry is not more hostile toward women than other sectors with significant gender disparity. In cases where a hostile environment is present, it is crucial to show that you belong. Additionally, misogyny is a crime and can lead to legal action.

Women in Tech

Making Space for Women in the Tech Industry

3 Reasons to Promote More Women in Tech

Bridging the Gender Gap is Not Just a Social Responsibility

To Attract and Retain Women in Your Company

Deconstructing Limiting Beliefs to Advance Women in the Sector

Available Resources

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