Women in tech: breaking barriers, driving change and accelerating action
On International Women’s Day 2025, we highlight how women are reshaping the tech industry, championing progress and paving the way for a more inclusive future.
The technology industry thrives on innovation, yet it remains a field where women continue to be underrepresented, particularly in leadership roles.
As we mark International Women’s Day 2025 under the theme #AccelerateAction, the call for advancement is clear: achieving gender equity in tech requires bold steps, strategic investment and a commitment to dismantling systemic barriers.
To shed light on the evolving landscape, we spoke with four accomplished women at HERE about their journeys, the evolution they’ve witnessed and what it will take to build a more inclusive industry. Their insights reveal both the strides made and the work that remains.
Different paths, common passion
For some, a career in technology was always the goal. For others, it was an unexpected but welcome pivot.
"My journey started in May 1993 when I joined a small start-up with a bold vision: to make paper maps in cars obsolete," recalled Jocelyne Michel, Senior Director of Global Product Partnerships, a veteran leader in mapping and navigation.
"At the time, digital maps sounded like science fiction. My friends thought I was crazy. But I believed in the mission, and today, we live in a world where digital navigation is second nature. Sometimes, the boldest ideas turn out to be the ones that change the world."
For Nisha Sharma, Software Engineering Manager II, the journey was less direct but no less impactful. "I started in the medical field in academics before realizing that my real passion lay in solving complex problems and optimizing processes through technology," she said. "That led me to delve into artificial intelligence (AI) and transition into tech—an industry that constantly challenges me and pushes the boundaries of innovation."
Shruti Redkar, Director Engineering, had a clear vision early on. "I was always intrigued by computers and programming, so pursuing an engineering degree was a natural step," said Redkar. "The industry was just beginning to take off, offering opportunities to create, problem-solve and collaborate with like-minded people. Technology allows us to shape the future in ways no other industry can."
For Natasha Peters, Senior Business Operations Manager, a career in tech wasn’t the original plan—but it became the perfect fit. "I started in fashion after earning an accounting degree, but I was looking for something more dynamic," she said. "When an opportunity opened at Navteq, I was intrigued—especially since my father had worked there for a decade. That decision led me from accounting to global product management, and now, business operations at HERE. It’s been a journey of continuous reinvention."
Has the industry made progress? Yes, but there’s still work to do.
Women in tech have long faced barriers to entry and advancement, from unconscious bias to a lack of representation in leadership. But the industry is changing—albeit slowly.
"In my early years, I was often the only woman in the room—whether with customers, partners or my own team," said Michel. "Diversity wasn’t even a topic of discussion. Today, women make up around 25% of the tech workforce. It’s improving but we’re not there yet. Representation matters and we need to keep pushing."
Data backs this up. Sharma pointed to research showing that women hold just 28% of computing and mathematical roles globally, with even lower representation in fields like AI (26%) and cloud computing (15%).
"Companies are making conscious efforts to bridge the gap, but it’s not enough to just hire more women," she said. "We need to address early exposure, societal stereotypes, workplace biases and the lack of mentorship opportunities that hold women back."
Redkar sees reason for optimism, and cited India as an example: "In 2013, there were about 1 million women in IT. Today, that number has doubled. This didn’t happen by accident—industry-wide initiatives like 'Women in Technology’ forums, targeted hiring efforts and flexible working policies are making a difference."
For Peters, leadership visibility is crucial: "Last year, I was part of the Women Rise program at HERE, designed to support gender equity and career development. Programs like these offer mentorship, coaching and networking opportunities—critical elements for long-term success."
The future of diversity in tech: what needs to happen next?
So, how can companies truly accelerate action and build a more inclusive workforce? The women we spoke to outlined key areas for advancement.
Michel emphasized mentorship and internal advocacy: "Women need to mentor and support each other. At HERE, we’ve built strong networks, like the Women’s Initiative Network (WIN), which started as a grassroots effort and has now grown into a global movement. Initiatives like these create real impact."
She also pointed to the numbers: "Diverse teams perform 35% better financially, are 30% more productive and drive 20% more innovation. The business case for diversity is clear—this isn’t just about equity, it’s about success."
For Sharma, it starts with education: "Women earn just 21% of computer science degrees. That’s where the pipeline problem begins. We need to do more to encourage young girls to pursue STEM and provide them with the confidence and resources to thrive in tech."
Redkar said structural policies must evolve: "HR data should guide us in identifying why women leave the workforce. We need to reassess policies around maternity leave, career gaps, pay parity and unconscious bias to create an environment where women can build long-term careers."
Peters highlighted the role of sponsorship: "It’s not enough to just create opportunities—women need access to the right sponsors who can advocate for them at leadership levels. Without that visibility, career growth remains limited."
Final thoughts: the time for change is now
The technology industry has made undeniable progress, but achieving gender equity requires more than just good intentions—it demands action. Mentorship, education, policy change and leadership representation are critical to keep the current momentum going. Companies must move beyond rhetoric and implement tangible initiatives that create real opportunities.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, the question isn’t whether we should take action—it’s how fast we’re willing to move. Because when women succeed, the entire industry moves forward.
Are we ready to accelerate action? The future of tech depends on it.
Have your say
Sign up for our newsletter
Why sign up:
- Latest offers and discounts
- Tailored content delivered weekly
- Exclusive events
- One click to unsubscribe