While studies show that women currently hold about 28% of technology jobs, the total number of women in tech positions has actually decreased over the last few years. Gender disparity clearly still exists, and it is even more Lessons Learned prominent in the field of Data Science. To make way for more women in Data Science, it’s important for me to share the lessons I’ve learned as a woman in a male-dominated space.
When I look back on my more than Lessons Learned decade of experience in Data Science and machine learning, there is no shortage of important takeaways that have helped guide me on my journey and set me up for success in tech. For women and men alike, here are a few guiding principles that can help ensure we’re all doing our part to create a more inclusive environment to foster female leaders in Data Science:
Look for community
It is critical to help young girls build a community of south africa whatsapp number data tech and Data Science enthusiasts from an early stage. This community eliminates any stigma and broadens the funnel of future female data scientists to ensure that girls and women have peers in their space as they grow older. Organizations like Girls Who Code, college organizations like Systers, and LinkedIn groups like TechWoman are helping to close the gender gap and grow the community of women in tech.
It behooves us all to spread the word about great ways for women in a few important automation techniques to tech to connect – and to reach out to those in our own communities to foster interest and support learnings.
Listen for the call
I never thought of a career in Data Science until a college professor atb directory spotted something in me and encouraged me to give it a go. Although I didn’t know any other women doing this coursework, I took a chance and believed in myself because someone else did first. When someone sees potential in you – believe them, trust it, and explore it.
