This event will discuss and attempt to determine what prevents women and girls from entering IT as a career.
Speaker
Christina Eager
Agenda
6:00pm - Refreshments and networking
6:30pm - Presentation starts
7:30pm - Questions/networking
8:30pm - Event close
Synopsis
Nationally, and internationally, there’s a shortage of computing specialists. Hays reported in 2023 that over 90% of employers looking for tech talent said there was a skills shortage. This is impacting current and future projects, with estimates of the financial impact on the UK economy being between £2bn and £5bn per year. Between 75% and 85% of the IT workforce is male. So, what is it that prevents women and girls from entering IT as a career? Hint: It’s NOT that they can’t do it.
For venue attendees, the venue address is Room VH.0.04, Verena Holmes Building, Canterbury Christ Church University, Canterbury CT1 1QB.
IMPORTANT NOTE: If attending in person, please familiarise yourself with the venue details and parking instructions
About the speaker
Christina Eager
I worked as a software developer on large scale data processing systems and led project teams to design and implement a range of systems. During that time, I learned a wide variety of programming languages and came to realise that while the language may change the underlying concepts and ideals do not and in fact the most important thing about software development isn't the language used but producing effective and robust solutions to problems. I am of a generation which did not have easy access to computers in school but ever since I got to know something abut them I have been fascinated by the things people use computers to do and also by the people who become involved in computing and computing-related subjects. I am passionate about computer science education and in associated issues around diversity and access to computing. I have some research publications examining the reasons girls and women are under-represented in computing roles and courses in the UK and have been invited to present my work at several conferences.
Our events are for adults aged 16 years and over.
BCS is a membership organisation. If you enjoy this event, please consider joining BCS. You’ll be very welcome. You’ll receive access to many exclusive career development tools, an introduction to a thriving professional community and also help us Make IT Good For Society. Join BCS today
Please note: if you have any accessibility needs, please let us know via groups@bcs.uk and we’ll work with you to make suitable arrangements.
For overseas delegates who wish to attend the event, please note that BCS does not issue invitation letters.
This event is brought to you by: Kent branch, Dorset branch, Hampshire branch and BCSWomen specialist group
