Did you know that half of women in tech leave the industry by the age of 35? That’s a staggering statistic—and it’s not because they lack talent, ambition, or skill. In fact, Forbes reported that women leave at a rate that is 45% higher than their male counterparts, signaling a systemic issue that demands our attention.
So, what is it that’s driving women out of tech?
The answer lies in a combination of barriers: toxic workplace cultures, unequal pay, rigid schedules, and a lack of support systems. Add it all together and it’s nearly impossible for many women to balance their professional aspirations with their personal responsibilities. But it isn’t all bad news! Let’s break down these barriers and see what we can do to move the needle forward.
Why Women Are Leaving Tech Early
The decision for women to leave tech at or before the age of 35 is less a true decision and more the result of systemic barriers that make staying unsustainable. From a lack of flexibility to workplace bias, these challenges undermine women’s ability to thrive in the industry.
Flexibility Challenges
Many women in tech see flexibility as an essential, not just a perk. The Women in Business 2024 Pay Parity Report by Grant Thornton found that “Hybrid and flexible working arrangements have a positive impact on the growth of women in senior leadership positions,”. Yet rigid work schedules continue to dominate company cultures. Without the ability to balance professional and personal responsibilities, women are often forced to make impossible choices.
Childcare is another significant hurdle. According to McKinsey, 50% of parents cite childcare costs as a major factor contributing to women leaving the workforce. This lack of flexibility and support creates a barrier that excludes talented women from continuing their careers.
Pay Gaps and Economic Inequities
The tech industry is no stranger to pay disparities. On average, women in tech earn 80-84 cents for every dollar their male counterparts make. For women of color, this gap is even wider, compounding the inequities they face.
When women are consistently underpaid for their work, it sends a clear message: their contributions are undervalued. Over time, this disparity erodes motivation and confidence, leading many to seek opportunities in industries where their skills are better recognized and rewarded.
Leadership Barriers
Despite being equally qualified, CIO reports that women hold only 28% of leadership roles in tech. Without access to leaders who can advocate for their advancement, women often face slower career progression and fewer opportunities to step into roles where they can make a lasting impact. The result is an industry that loses out on the innovation and leadership women bring to the table.
Toxic Work Cultures
The so-called “bro culture” of tech workplaces remains a significant obstacle. 72% of women in tech have experienced exclusion, bias, or harassment, according to research published in The Atlantic. This environment can drive women out and create a cycle where future talent is discouraged from pursuing careers in tech.
These challenges require collective action. From advocating for flexible policies to creating inclusive cultures, there are clear steps the industry can take to support women in the workplace and ensure their voices remain part of the conversation.
Community and Mentorship: Your Secret Weapons
What are two crucial pieces to staying (and winning) in tech? Community and mentorship. This is where you’re going to find the guidance, encouragement, and knowledge needed to overcome any challenges sent your way. A strong network of peers, mentors, and allies is essential. Community allows you to be present, build confidence, and remind you you’re not alone. This shared support inspires more women to stay and lead, creating a ripple effect of growth and innovation.
Tech mentorship provides advice for navigating an industry where women are often underrepresented. For mentees, it offers invaluable insights from those who’ve faced similar hurdles, helping them build confidence, skills, and networks. Data from CIO shows that women with mentors are up to 77% more likely to stay in tech after three years compared to those without mentorship. And for mentors, it’s an opportunity to give back, gain fresh perspectives, and grow as leaders.
See For Yourself: Kamala Scholars’ Testimonials
The Kamala Scholars Program at AnitaB.org is a testament to the power of mentorship. Through one-on-one coaching, networking opportunities, and peer support, the program helps women in tech build thriving careers and break those walls down.
Here’s what some of our mentors and mentees have to say about their experiences:
Shuba, ‘24 Career Coach:
“It has been an eye-opening and humbling experience to hear about some of the challenges these young women are facing and have had to overcome to get to where they are today. It is tremendously gratifying to play a role in their success, no matter how small, and help them get where they want to go.”
Annie, ‘24 Kamala Scholar:
“Being a member of this community has given me resources and experiences that are not typical of a university experience, which allows me to appreciate it immensely. I have been able to keep my head up during these difficult job searches, but I appreciate all of the learning, networking, and interactions that I have received through the program.”
The impact of mentorship extends far beyond individual relationships. By fostering resilience, creating opportunities, and amplifying voices, mentorship helps break down the systemic barriers that hold women back. When women in tech support one another—whether as mentors, mentees, or both—they create a community of strength, innovation, and progress.
Women Don’t Have to Leave Tech, They Belong Here
When women leave tech, it’s a personal loss and a loss for the industry. Women bring diverse perspectives that fuel innovation and equity. The challenges are real, but with support, they don’t have to be faced alone.
By lifting each other up, women in tech can transform the industry. Whether through community, mentorship, or any other way of giving back, every act of support helps break down barriers. If you’re looking to expand your community or become a mentor or mentee, AnitaB.org Membership connects women and offers resources and opportunities that help you in your tech journey. The future of tech needs women. Join AnitaB.org Membership today to ensure women not only stay in tech but lead and shape its future. Together, we can thrive.
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