THE finalists of the annual FDM everywoman in Technology Awards have been unveiled. Now in its 12th year, the awards celebrate and showcase the tech industry’s most exceptional talent, from the UK and beyond, creating role models to inspire the next generation of tech stars and address the recruitment crisis and need for diversity to drive future growth within the technology industry.
Currently only 24% of people working in STEM in the UK are women and this is only expected to increase to 29% by 2030. Although their numbers are on the rise, women still only account for 10% of leadership roles in the industry. It’s estimated that to achieve gender parity in the technology sector in the UK, one million women need to be hired and that this shift would benefit the economy by £2.6bn. Research has also shown that gender balanced boards lead to better decision-making, curb excessive risk taking and ultimately bolster a company’s bottom line.
The 2022 finalists span diverse backgrounds within the technology space and were chosen by a panel of high-profile judges including Jacqueline de Rojas CBE (President, techUK), Sheridan Ash MBE (PwC / Tech She Can), Diana Kennedy (Bupa), Gisela Abbam (British Science Association), April Moh (SUSE), amongst others.
Amongst the finalists are several Scottish hopefuls, including Apprentice Award contender Anna Solek from Glasgow, a Software Engineer at JP Morgan; Innovator Award nominee Anne Widdop from Arisaig, who is Founding Director at The VR Hive; and Caroline Laurenson from Aberdeenshire, Managing Director at TL Tech Ltd, who is in the running for the Tech for Good Award.
The award winners will be announced at a ceremony in London on 9th March 2022 where over 500 tech leaders from across industry will come to network and celebrate these exceptional finalists.
Maxine Benson MBE, Co-Founder of everywoman commented: “We are thrilled to be celebrating the achievements of all our finalists, each one is a role model whose accomplishments we know will inspire future generations to pursue a career in tech. Their stories showcase the vital advancements technology is making towards saving, transforming, and improving lives while also positively impacting on the planet and ensuring the future of tech grows ever more diverse and inclusive.”
Sheila Flavell CBE, Chief Operating Officer of FDM Group commented:
“As businesses across Britain rebuild, reboot and go for growth, the crucial role that women entrepreneurs and innovators play in this recovery cannot be underestimated. At FDM Group, we are all very proud to once again support these awards, which shine a spotlight on the next generation of female digital talent. The technology industry played a critical role in helping the country through the pandemic, now it’s up to all of us to go the extra mile to inspire, encourage and recruit more women to join us in this exciting journey.”
